Clemson University has published its 2027-28 academic calendar, which contains small adjustments allowing for the introduction of a dedicated Winter Term and a shift to key semester dates to create more flexibility for students, faculty and staff.
Under the new structure, which was informed through a feedback process consisting of more than 20 stakeholder meetings and the review of more than 500 faculty and staff survey responses, the spring semester will begin in mid-January, providing additional time between winter break and the start of classes for advising, academic planning and course preparation. Summer II will begin on or after July 1, allowing more incoming students to participate in summer pathway programs such as Summer Start. Existing parts of term, standard meeting times and contact hours remain unchanged.
The new Winter Term between the fall and spring semesters will create opportunities for short-term experiential learning opportunities and courses designed to help students stay on track academically. The additional period also provides faculty more time for professional development, scholarly activities and preparation for spring instruction.
The final examination period will shift from a Monday-Friday schedule to Wednesday-Tuesday, with a dedicated study day immediately before exams.
The revised calendar is designed to expand academic flexibility and high-impact learning opportunities while preserving the traditional fall and spring semesters. Additional implementation work will address policies, billing practices, advising timelines and initial course offerings ahead of the 2027-28 launch.
The full calendar can be found on the Registrar’s website.
