# HDS Registrar ## expand\_more In addition to keeping academic records, the registrar is responsible for the publication of[ course listings](https://hds.harvard.edu/academics/finding-courses) and the [HDS Handbook for Students](https://student-handbook.hds.harvard.edu/), exam and classroom scheduling, tuition and fee assessment, loan deferment requests, [academic transcripts and diplomas, degree verification](https://hds.harvard.edu/academics/registrar/transcripts-and-degree-verification), and the petition process to the Committee on Academic Programs. ### Academic Calendar The Fall term begins in late August/early September, with exams completed in early- to mid-December. The Spring term begins in late January, culminating with Commencement in late May. Here is the current [academic calendar](https://hds.harvard.edu/academics/registrar/academic-calendar). Courses at Harvard Divinity School are typically offered as four-unit courses. They meet at least once every week for one full semester. Four-unit courses may also be scheduled over two semesters, with courses meeting at least once every other week over two full semesters. Eight unit courses meet at least once every week for the entire year. See more information on finding courses. ### Academic Policies The [HDS Handbook for Students](https://student-handbook.hds.harvard.edu/), produced annually by the HDS Registrar’s Office, contains the most up-to-date policies regarding courses, grading, and more. ### Course Enrollment and Catalog Information Course enrollment at HDS begins with a 2-3 week period in the prior term in which continuing students meet with their advisor and make initial selections. Typically, this period is held in November for Spring classes, and in April for Fall classes. New students begin enrollment in August before their program starts. An add/drop period is then held approximately 2 weeks before the start of the semester and 2 weeks into the semester, where students may continue to add or drop classes. To facilitate the enrollment process, catalog information should be submitted to the HDS Registrar's Office in a timely manner. Because every instructor's appointment is unique, the HDS Registrar's Office will connect with each instructor individually to confirm plans and propose or update courses as necessary. When developing a course, instructors should think carefully about managing the number of students in their class, and establishing limits as appropriate. Unlimited enrollment is recommended in classes that are introductory or lecture based in nature. Limited enrollment requiring instructor permission is recommended in classes that are advanced, require background, or otherwise require a review process for enrollment. The HDS Registrar will guide new instructors through these and other concerns in the process of developing courses. ### Class Scheduling Guidelines These scheduling guidelines are adapted from the FAS guidelines and approved by the HDS faculty. Adherence to them is required as it ensures fewer timing conflicts, greater choice for students, less competition for enrollment, effective passing time, and assists in classroom scheduling. 1. HDS classes meet once, twice, or three times weekly. 1. Classes held once per week are scheduled for 2 or 2.75 hour meetings 2. Classes held twice per week are scheduled for 1.25 hour meetings 3. Classes held three times per week are scheduled for 1 hour meetings 2. Designated class start times are as follows: 1. 2.75 hour classes: start 9am, 12pm, 3pm, or 6pm 2. 2 hours classes: start 9am, 9:45am, 12pm, 12:45pm, 3pm, 3:45pm, or 6pm 3. 1 and 1.25 hour classes: start 9am, 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm, 3pm, 4:30pm, or 6pm 3. Additional 1 hour discussion section meetings may be arranged with the HDS Registrar’s Office. Sections typically follow start time rules for 1 hour meetings. 4. Courses which meet twice or three times weekly are commonly held in the mornings. Courses that meet once weekly are held throughout the day. 5. Class meetings must be held during the hours scheduled in the course listings issued before the term begins. Updates to course schedules must be recorded with the HDS Registrar’s Office. 6. No classes may meet on Wednesday at 12pm (HDS Noon Service). A special two hour teaching slot is available 1pm-3pm on Wednesdays. 7. Voting faculty members may not schedule classes on Mondays from 12:00pm-3:00pm due to faculty and/or committee meetings. 8. Instruction begins at the published start time and ends at the published end time. Passing time between classes is built into this schedule (i.e. one class ends at 2:45pm, another begins at 3pm). 9. When selecting a schedule, instructors should be aware of the following required courses in HDS degree programs and their typical schedules: 1. HDS 4510 Introduction to Ministry Studies enrolls first year MDiv students. It meets in the Fall semester Tuesdays and Thursdays 9am-10:15am. 2. HDS 4515 Theories and Methods in the Studies of Religion enrolls all first year HDS students. It meets in the Fall semester Mondays 3:45pm-5:45pm 3. HDS 4591 MDiv Senior Seminar enrolls all third year MDiv students. It meets in the Fall semester Mondays 3:45pm-5:45pm 4. HDS 4540AB MRPL Seminar I and II enrolls all MRPL students. It meets both semesters Mondays 6pm-8pm. Please keep the required courses in mind as you are planning your course schedule. The table below illustrates the scheduling timeframes. ### Additional Classroom Reservations The Registrar’s Office is responsible for classroom scheduling and must be notified when faculty decide to add additional class meetings. For questions or concerns regarding course scheduling and room reservations, please contact the HDS Registrar’s Office at 617.495.5760 or [registrar@hds.harvard.edu.](mailto:registrar@hds.harvard.edu)