How to Succeed in WSU Winter Session Online Courses

Did you know there’s a way to get ahead, catch up, and lighten your course load at WSU? It’s called Winter Session!

“Winter Session isn’t on every student’s radar yet, but it can be a powerful way to speed up your time to degree,” said Doug Lonowski from Learn365, WSU’s year-round learning initiative. “Taking a course during the winter break can be a real game-changer, which is why we are trying to get the word out.”

What is Winter Session?

Winter Session is a short, intensive academic term offered during the winter break. All courses are offered virtually via WSU’s Global Campus and are open to all WSU students, regardless of which campus they attend.

“These online courses can be ideal for students who have either fallen behind or want to get ahead academically,” said Lonowski. “It’s a flexible and convenient way to earn a few extra credits online during the break between fall and spring semesters.”

Winter Session courses are either three or six weeks long. For 2025, the six-week courses run from November 24 through January 4, and the three-week courses run from December 13 through January 4.

Registration is open now, and the full list of courses can be found at the Winter Session website.

“Though it’s a great option for many students, the courses are condensed into a much shorter and more intense timeframe,” said Janet Wichman, Global Campus’ director of advising. “It’s important to prepare for success.”

Here are a few tips to help you thrive in an accelerated online Winter Session class.

Tip 1: Prepare Before the Session Begins

Start strong by getting organized early. Accelerated courses move quickly, so early preparation matters.

  • Order books and materials early—don’t wait for the first day.
  • Check the Winter Session Tuition and Fees page to make sure you are aware of tuition costs and financial aid considerations.
  • Test your technology: internet, software, and Canvas access.
  • If your course site opens early, log in and explore it.
  • Read your syllabus ahead of time.
  • Note upcoming deadlines and set calendar reminders accordingly.

Tip 2: Manage Your Time Strategically

Create a schedule that works with your life and honors the time commitment required for an accelerated course.

  • Treat coursework like a full-time job—expect to dedicate several hours per day.
  • Use calendars, planners, or task management apps to break tasks into smaller chunks.
  • Identify and reserve your most productive hours for coursework.
  • Try techniques like the Pomodoro method (25-minute focus blocks).

Tip 3: Stay Focused and Connected

You’re not alone. Stay engaged and connected with your instructor and classmates to stay on track.

  • Avoid multitasking. Put your phone away and give your coursework your full attention.
  • Communicate early and often with your instructor. Don’t wait to ask for help—small questions can snowball quickly.
  • Use discussion boards or study groups to stay connected with others in your course. Share your experiences and learn from each other.
  • Check your email and Canvas announcements daily to stay informed.

Tip 4: Prioritize Self-Care and Balance

A short, intense session requires focus, but balance is key to sustaining your energy.

  • Set a sustainable daily routine with short breaks, meals, and downtime.
  • Meal prep or plan simple meals to save time.
  • Say “no” to extra commitments during this time if needed.

Keep perspective: Winter Session is short, but it requires concentrated effort.

Tip 5: Know Your Options

If you begin to struggle, reach out—support is available.

  • Contact your advisor early for help or guidance.
  • If you need accommodations, flexibility or support, connect with Student Accommodations and Disability Resources.
  • If you need to drop your course, know the dates and deadlines. To receive a refund, you must drop your six-week course by November 30 or three-week course by December 17.

“Accelerated Winter Session courses are a great way to get extra credits and accelerate your journey to graduation,” Wichman reminds, “but it doesn’t come without effort. Success requires preparation, communication, time management, and self-awareness.”

For more information about Winter Session or how to succeed in accelerated online classes, reach out to your advisor or visit the Winter Session webpage.