Winter Recess doesn’t have to mean a break from academic progress. West Virginia University’s 2025-26 Winter Intersession is now open for registration, offering motivated students the opportunity to earn up to five credits in just three weeks — all through fully online, asynchronous courses.
Photo: The PRT zips past Reynolds Hall on a snowy day in West Virginia. By Justice Pautz.
What is Winter Intersession?
Launched in 2017, Winter Intersession is a short, intensive academic term held between the fall and spring semesters. Designed for those who want to continue making meaningful academic progress over break, courses are delivered online and asynchronously, allowing students to learn from anywhere, on their own schedule. With 1-, 2-, and 3-credit courses, participants can customize their learning to suit their availability and goals.
Due to the accelerated format, it's important for students not to fall behind. Learners should plan to log in on the first day of classes and stay consistently engaged with their coursework throughout the duration of the session. Good time management skills are essential for success.
New this year: The course overload petition requirement has been removed, making it even easier to enroll in Winter Intersession courses.
What are the benefits of taking Winter Intersession courses?
Those who take advantage of Winter Intersession can:
- Fulfill General Education Foundations (GEF) requirements
- Lighten their spring course load
- Pursue new subjects
- Diversify their transcript
- Upskill in a topic relevant to their career aspirations
What courses are available this year?
This year’s lineup includes 30 online courses packed with engaging and career-relevant options. Participants can learn how to use artificial intelligence in the workplace, build hands-on skills in Excel, explore global sustainability, develop design-for-communication skills, and even analyze human rights themes through video games. From Hollywood history to nutrition and wellness, there’s a wide range of subjects to match varying goals and interests.
When does registration close and when do classes begin?
- Registration closes: Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, at 4 p.m. ET
- Classes begin: Monday, Dec. 22, 2025
- Classes end: Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026
Course spots fill quickly, so early submission of the registration request form is highly encouraged. To learn more about costs, eligibility, available courses, and the registration process, visit the Winter Intersession website.
For Winter Intersession questions and support, connect with the WVU Online team at WVUWinter@mail.wvu.edu.