Faculty Senate approves earlier start for Fall 2027 classes to minimize holiday conflicts around finals

The Faculty Senate on March 2 approved changes to the academic calendar for the Fall 2027 term that will minimize holiday-related conflicts at the end of the semester. Under the new calendar, the first day of classes is now scheduled to be Thursday, September 2, 2027. Previously, it was Wednesday, September 8, 2027. Moving up the term’s start to the earliest possible date allowed under state statute also advances the last class date and the final exam period. Under the original calendar, final exams would have run through the evening of Thursday, December 23, 2027, and final grades would have been due Sunday, December 26, 2027. Now, final exams will end on Friday, December 17, 2027, and final grades will be due Monday, December 20, 2027. Fall 2027 Commencement will remain on Sunday, December 19, 2027.

The RO’s role

Recognizing the significant impact that a late December final exam period can have — and has had in the past — on students, faculty, and staff, the RO began exploring alternative calendar options in fall 2025. The team built on prior analyses and historical research examining start dates and term patterns to develop a viable alternative. This approach informed a proposed calendar model, which was shared with campus partners for feedback and refinement, before eventually moving to the Faculty Senate for approval. While the Fall 2027 term will differ from recent fall schedules, its structure closely mirrors many spring terms, which should ease operational adjustments across campus – while providing an earlier end to the term for students and faculty.