Maximum Teaching Load Policy

Bethel University acknowledges the desire of some employees to teach a heavier load. The University also recognizes that as an institution we must ensure that workloads are manageable for employees and enable the highest quality experiences for our students. The policy outlined below is designed to balance both of these goals.

 Full-Time Faculty

 * May teach additional courses in the summer, not to exceed the University full-time faculty maximum teaching load limit.

Adjunct Faculty

 * May teach additional CAS summer courses or courses in other schools, not to exceed the University adjunct faculty maximum teaching load limit.

Staff Employees Who Teach

Exempt staff employees who work 1.0 FTE (40 hours/week, 12 months/year) in their staff role(s) may teach up to 16 LCs per August – July time period.   This amount will be prorated for staff who work less the 1.0 FTE.

In consultation with their supervisor and with written permission from OPC, a staff employee may be allowed to teach up to 4 LCs at a time during the employee’s normal work day. The work may be adjust the employee's work schedule.  As with any leave of absence, leave without pay from their staff role for the purpose of teaching may be approved by OPC in extenuating circumstances.

Contact the Office of People and Culture for further information.

Monitoring the Maximum Teaching Load Policy

Each respective academic affairs office will monitor loads, as needed, when course assignments are made to see if any individual is at or is exceeding their load limit.

If there is a load conflict, the last school who assigned the course is responsible for leading the discussion and resolution process.

It is also expected that staff and faculty will take personal responsibility for adhering to this policy.

Effective August 1, 2024 

Office of the Provost

Updated July 9, 2024