Course Numbers

To determine which course numbers are appropriate for use as you develop a new course, utilize the course filter at catalog.sjsu.edu in the "Course Descriptions" section for courses with the desired prefix or subject.

Be sure to adhere to the numbering standard:

1-99 Lower Division Courses (Freshmen and Sophomores)

Lower division courses are numbered 1-99 and should be designed for freshmen and sophomores. Many lower division courses have articulation agreements secured with California community colleges. The articulation agreements that are available, as well as General Education (GE) articulation agreements. Visit the Articulation webpage for more information.

  1. 92 is used for International Program Studies/Study Abroad. 
  2. 96 is used for Experimental Courses to meet special demands on a temporary basis and are listed in the Schedule of Classes, but not in the academic catalog.

University Policy S23-1 [pdf] Guidelines for Experimental Courses: 96/196/296/596. (Rescinds F67-11, F68-24)

University Policy F66-13 [pdf] Prohibition of Double-Numbering of Course; Lower Division/Upper Division Differentiation

100-199 Upper Division Courses (Juniors and Seniors)

Upper division courses are numbered 100-199 and should be designed for juniors and seniors. It is recommended that upper division have a minimum prerequisite of upper division standing. Articulation agreements are available between university to university and other regionally accredited college and universities. Visit the Articulation webpage for more information.

  • 100W is used for GWAR.
  • 180 Individual Studies/ 184 Directed Reading are used for independent study and are generally reserved for majors within a department. Normally, no more than four units of 180 and/or 184 may be taken for baccalaureate credit. 
  • 192 is used for International Program Studies/Study Abroad.
  • 196 is used for Experimental Courses to meet special demands on a temporary basis and are listed in the Schedule of Classes, but not in the academic catalog.

University Policy S26-5 [pdf] Criteria for Upper-Division Courses 

University Policy S23-1 [pdf] Guidelines for Experimental Courses: 96/196/296/596. (Rescinds F67-11, F68-24)

University Policy S67-2 [pdf]Guidelines for Individual Studies (180). Amendment A [pdf]. 

University Policy S19-3 [pdf] undergraduate GWAR / WID 

200-299 Master's Courses 

Master's courses are numbered 200-299. Graduate level instruction is defined by EP&R 82-39 and AAP-91-04 [pdf]. 

  • 292 is used for International Program Studies/Study Abroad.
  • 296 is used for Experimental Courses to meet special demands on a temporary basis and are listed in the Schedule of Classes, but not in the academic catalog.
  • 297 is used for a Research course. 
  • 298 is used for a Project course.
  • 299 is used for a Master’s Thesis course. 

University Policy S23-1 [pdf] Guidelines for Experimental Courses: 96/196/296/596. (Rescinds F67-11, F68-24)

University Policy S19-3 [pdf] Campus Graduate GWAR  

300-499 Methods / Professional / Continuing Education Units

Courses in the 300 and 400-series are especially designed for professional in-service and relicensure purposes. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are given for these courses. Courses are not applicable to degree programs and units earned do not affect grade point totals or average. These courses given by or for other departments are allowed upper division credit and are numbered 300-499.

University Policy F25-1 [pdf] Continuing Education Unit Course Standards 

500-599 Doctoral Courses

Doctoral courses are numbered 500-599. Graduate level instruction is defined by EP&R 82-39 and AAP-91-04 [pdf].

  • 580 is used for doctoral independent study.
  • 596 is used for Experimental Courses to meet special demands on a temporary basis and are listed in the Schedule of Classes, but not in the academic catalog.
  • 598 is used for dissertation research.

University Policy S23-1 [pdf] Guidelines for Experimental Courses: 96/196/296/596. (Rescinds F67-11, F68-24)

1000 No Degree Credit (Pre-Collegiate)

Courses in the 1000-series do not earn credit toward any degree program. Examples: remedial courses and units devoted to thesis, project, or dissertation beyond minimum required units. (Effective May 30, 2016)

  • 1290R is Culminating Experience Supervision.