POC Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Pacific Oaks College (POC) serves as the foundational framework for the entire educational experience in Pasadena, California. This calendar outlines the structure of the academic year, including semesters, holidays, breaks, and key deadlines, enabling students, faculty, and staff to plan effectively. POC follows a traditional semester system common in many United States higher education institutions, typically divided into fall, spring, and summer terms. The fall semester generally begins after the summer period, allowing time for orientation and preparation, while the spring semester starts following a winter break, and summer sessions offer flexible learning opportunities. This structure has evolved over the years, influenced by the college's history as an institution focused on early childhood education and human development, founded in the mid-20th century with Quaker roots emphasizing community and holistic growth. Compared to other universities, POC's calendar aligns closely with those in the California State University system, incorporating state and federal holidays while prioritizing student well-being through adequate breaks. For students, this impacts course planning, exam preparation, and personal scheduling, ensuring a balance between academic rigor and rest. Faculty use it to align syllabi, grading periods, and professional development. Prospective students should note how admission cycles integrate with the calendar, often with deadlines preceding the academic year. International students benefit from understanding alignments with global holidays, though POC primarily observes U.S. observances like Thanksgiving and Independence Day. The calendar also facilitates coordination with family travel and work commitments, making it a vital tool for success. By staying informed, community members can maximize opportunities, such as participating in campus events or seeking professor ratings to choose courses wisely. Whether you're planning classes, exams, holidays, breaks, work schedules, deadlines, tracking rival school events, coordinating family travel, or verifying historical dates, the POC academic calendar is indispensable. It reflects the institution's commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment in the vibrant city of Pasadena, near cultural hubs like Los Angeles. Understanding its nuances helps in navigating the academic journey smoothly, from enrollment to graduation.