the meaning of course work

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/ˌkɔrsˈwʌrk/.

• noun work assigned to and done by a student during a course of study; usually it is evaluated as part of the student's grade in the course see more see less type of: work activity directed toward making or doing something

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Course vs Coursework: Meaning And Differences

When it comes to education, the terms “course” and “coursework” are often used interchangeably. However, they have distinct meanings and it’s important to understand the difference between the two.

We should clarify that both words are proper and can be used appropriately depending on the context.

A course refers to a series of lessons or lectures on a particular subject, often leading to a qualification or certification. It can be taken in person or online and may include assignments, exams, or projects to assess learning.

On the other hand, coursework typically refers to the specific assignments, projects, or essays that are completed as part of a course. It is the practical work that students must complete in addition to attending lectures or lessons.

Understanding the difference between these two terms is essential for anyone pursuing education or looking to communicate effectively about their academic experiences.

In the following sections, we will explore the nuances between courses and coursework, including how they differ in terms of structure, purpose, and assessment.

Define Course

A course is a unit of study offered by an educational institution that typically lasts for a specific period of time and leads to the attainment of a degree, diploma, or certificate. It is a structured program of learning that covers a particular subject or topic and is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to succeed in their chosen field.

Courses can be offered in a variety of formats, including online, in-person, or hybrid models. They can range in length from a few weeks to several months or even years, depending on the level of study and the requirements of the program. Courses can also be categorized into different levels, such as introductory, intermediate, or advanced, depending on the complexity of the subject matter.

Define Coursework

Coursework refers to the assignments, projects, and assessments that students are required to complete as part of a course. It is the practical application of the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom and is designed to assess a student’s understanding of the subject matter.

Coursework can take many forms, including essays, reports, presentations, exams, and practical tasks. It is typically graded and contributes to a student’s overall grade or GPA. Coursework can also be used to develop a student’s research, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, as well as their ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Coursework can be completed individually or in groups, and can be submitted in various formats, such as hard copy, online, or through a learning management system. It is an integral part of the learning process and is designed to help students apply what they have learned in a practical and meaningful way.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Proper usage of words is essential in any form of writing, especially when it comes to academic writing. In this section, we will discuss how to use the words “course” and “coursework” correctly in a sentence.

How To Use “Course” In A Sentence

The word “course” has multiple meanings, but when used in the context of education, it refers to a series of lessons or lectures on a particular subject. Here are some examples of how to use “course” correctly:

• I am taking a course in biology this semester.
• The course on Shakespearean literature was very challenging.
• She completed her course on web design with flying colors.

As seen in the examples above, “course” is used to refer to a specific class or subject of study. It is important to note that “course” can also refer to a path or direction, such as in the following sentence:

• The hurricane changed course and headed towards the east coast.

How To Use “Coursework” In A Sentence

The word “coursework” refers to the assignments and tasks that students are required to complete as part of a course. Here are some examples of how to use “coursework” correctly:

• The professor assigned a lot of coursework for the semester.
• She spent all weekend working on her coursework for the marketing class.
• His coursework in physics included several lab reports and a research paper.

As seen in the examples above, “coursework” is used to refer to the various assignments and tasks that are part of a course. It is important to note that “coursework” is a non-count noun, meaning that it cannot be pluralized.

More Examples Of Course & Coursework Used In Sentences

In order to fully understand the difference between course and coursework, it is important to see how they are used in context. Here are some examples of how both words can be used in a sentence:

Examples Of Using Course In A Sentence

• She is currently taking a course on digital marketing.
• The golf course was in pristine condition for the tournament.
• He had to drop out of the course due to scheduling conflicts.
• The university offers a wide range of courses in various subjects.
• After completing the course, she received a certificate of completion.
• The new employee had to go through a training course before starting work.
• The history course was taught by a renowned professor.
• The online course was accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.
• The course material was challenging but informative.
• He decided to audit the course instead of receiving a grade.

Examples Of Using Coursework In A Sentence

• Her coursework in college focused on environmental science.
• The final grade for the class was based on coursework and a final exam.
• He spent hours each night working on his coursework for the MBA program.
• The coursework included a research project and a group presentation.
• She struggled to keep up with the coursework in her advanced math class.
• The coursework for the online degree program was completed entirely online.
• He was able to transfer some of his previous coursework to the new university.
• The coursework was designed to be completed over a 12-week period.
• She received a high grade on her coursework for the architecture class.
• The coursework for the nursing program included both classroom and clinical components.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the terms course and coursework, many people make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these two words have distinct meanings and should not be used in place of each other. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Mistake #1: Using “Course” To Refer To A Specific Assignment Or Project

One common mistake people make is using the word “course” to refer to a specific assignment or project. For example, saying “I have a course due tomorrow” instead of “I have coursework due tomorrow.” The word “course” refers to the entire class or program of study, while “coursework” refers to the individual assignments and projects within that class.

Mistake #2: Using “Course” As A Synonym For “Program”

Another mistake is using “course” as a synonym for “program.” For example, saying “I’m enrolled in a business course” instead of “I’m enrolled in a business coursework program.” The word “course” refers to a single class, while “coursework” refers to the entire program of study.

Mistake #3: Using “Coursework” To Refer To A Single Class

On the flip side, some people make the mistake of using “coursework” to refer to a single class. For example, saying “I have to study for my coursework” instead of “I have to study for my calculus course.” Coursework refers to the assignments and projects within a class, while “course” refers to the class itself.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

• Be mindful of the context in which you are using these words.
• Double-check your usage of “course” and “coursework” to ensure that you are using the correct term.
• If in doubt, consult a dictionary or style guide for clarification.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the terms “course” and “coursework,” the context in which they are used can play a significant role. While both terms are related to education and learning, they have distinct differences that can affect how they are used in different situations.

A course is typically defined as a series of classes or lectures on a specific subject, usually taken by students in pursuit of a degree or certification. It can also refer to a specific subject or topic of study, such as a math course or a literature course. In this context, the term “course” is often used to refer to a structured program of study that has a clear beginning and end.

For example, a college student might enroll in a biology course as part of their degree program. The course would consist of a series of lectures, assignments, and exams that are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. In this context, the term “course” is appropriate because it refers to a specific program of study that has a clear structure and purpose.

Coursework, on the other hand, refers to the assignments, projects, and other tasks that are assigned to students as part of a course. It can include everything from written essays to lab reports to group projects. In this context, the term “coursework” is often used to refer to the practical work that students are expected to complete as part of their studies.

For example, a student enrolled in a biology course might be assigned coursework that includes conducting experiments in a lab, writing research papers on specific topics, and giving presentations on their findings. In this context, the term “coursework” is appropriate because it refers to the practical work that is assigned to students as part of their studies.

Contextual Examples

The choice between course and coursework can depend on the context in which they are used. Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between course and coursework might change:

• Academic Setting: In an academic setting, the term “course” is often used to refer to a specific program of study, while “coursework” is used to refer to the practical work that is assigned to students as part of that program.
• Professional Setting: In a professional setting, the term “course” might be used to refer to a training program or workshop, while “coursework” might be used to refer to the specific assignments or projects that are assigned as part of that training.
• Online Learning: In an online learning environment, the term “course” might be used to refer to a self-paced program of study, while “coursework” might be used to refer to the specific assignments or projects that are assigned as part of that program.

Overall, the choice between course and coursework can depend on the context in which they are used. Understanding the differences between these terms can help you communicate more effectively in different educational and professional settings.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using course and coursework are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions to keep in mind.

1. Colloquial Language

When speaking informally or using colloquial language, the rules for using course and coursework may not be as strict. In these cases, it is more important to convey your meaning clearly than to adhere to strict grammar rules.

For example, in casual conversation, it is acceptable to say “I’m taking a course in history” or “I have a lot of coursework to do this semester,” even if technically the word “coursework” should only be used to refer to the assignments and projects associated with a course.

2. Regional Differences

There may be regional differences in the use of course and coursework. In some areas or dialects, one word may be used more frequently or in a slightly different way than in others.

For example, in British English, the word “coursework” is more commonly used to refer to the assignments and projects associated with a course, while in American English, the word “coursework” may also be used to refer to the entire course itself.

3. Technical Jargon

In certain fields or industries, there may be technical jargon or specific terminology that uses the words course or coursework in a different way than the general rules dictate.

For example, in the field of education, the term “course of study” may be used to refer to the specific classes and requirements for a degree program, rather than to individual courses. In this context, the word “course” would not be interchangeable with “coursework.”

4. Idiomatic Expressions

There are also some idiomatic expressions that use the words course or coursework in a non-literal way. These expressions may not follow the usual rules for using the words.

For example, the phrase “stay the course” means to persevere or continue on a particular path, even in the face of obstacles or challenges. This usage of the word “course” is not related to a specific academic class or program.

While the rules for using course and coursework may seem simple, there are exceptions to keep in mind. In some cases, colloquial language, regional differences, technical jargon, or idiomatic expressions may cause the words to be used in a different way than the general rules dictate.

Practice Exercises

One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of course and coursework is through practice exercises. These exercises will help you to apply the concepts you have learned and to identify any areas where you may need further clarification.

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Complete the following sentences with either course or coursework:

• After completing the ______, students will receive a certificate of completion.
• He decided to change his major halfway through his ______.
• She is currently enrolled in a ______ on business writing.
• The ______ of study for this degree program is four years.
• The professor assigned a new ______ each week.

Answer Key:

Exercise 2: Multiple Choice

Choose the correct option to complete each sentence:

• ______ is the material that is covered in a class.
• b. coursework
• ______ refers to the specific assignments and projects that are completed in a class.
• Which of the following is an example of coursework?
• a. Attending lectures
• b. Taking quizzes
• c. Writing a research paper
• d. All of the above

By completing these practice exercises, you will be able to improve your understanding and use of course and coursework. Remember to always refer back to the definitions and examples provided to ensure that you are using these terms correctly in your writing and communication.

In conclusion, the difference between course and coursework is significant and should not be overlooked. While a course refers to a series of classes or lectures on a particular subject, coursework is the work assigned to students as part of the course. It is essential to understand this difference to avoid confusion and use the terms correctly.

Moreover, the proper use of grammar and language is crucial in any form of writing, whether academic or professional. It is essential to pay attention to the details and nuances of the language to convey the intended message effectively.

Therefore, readers are encouraged to continue learning about grammar and language use to improve their writing skills. There are numerous resources available online, such as grammar guides, style manuals, and writing courses, that can help individuals enhance their language skills.

Key Takeaways

• A course refers to a series of classes or lectures on a particular subject.
• Coursework is the work assigned to students as part of the course.
• The difference between course and coursework is significant and should not be overlooked.
• The proper use of grammar and language is crucial in any form of writing, whether academic or professional.
• Readers are encouraged to continue learning about grammar and language use to improve their writing skills.

Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.

What is Coursework? | Definition, Meaning & keypoints!

What is coursework.

Coursework is a practical work or study done by a student in partial fulfilment of a degree or training. Projects, field work, design studies, long essays etc constitutes a coursework. The nature of work which requires to be carried out depends on the course. It is largely a part of learning exercise and a step to prepare you to handle the required work/ task effectively and efficiently.

Written or practical work done by a student during a course of study, usually assessed in order to count towards a final mark or grade.

Who assigns coursework and why?

Major types of coursework & how to go about them.

Coursework for academic topics which require writing:

What makes a good and effective content.

A good and effective content is easy to read and understand by readers. Some of the points while writing a content to improve its quality are

Coursework requiring you to make something like model, sculpture or artwork

Key points to be kept in mind while working on coursework.

Admission to doctoral programs requires completion of an undergraduate degree program and typically, but not always, of a master’s degree program. Students earning a doctorate must take a specified number of advanced graduate-level courses, requiring at least two or three years of study beyond the master’s degree. Upon passing written or oral examinations, or a combination of both, doctoral students are granted the status of doctoral candidates. Then they must research and write a dissertation on an original topic, and then satisfactorily defend the dissertation before a committee of professors in the field.

About The Author

How to Write a Coursework

Coursework projects do not resemble essays, research papers, or dissertations. They are the combination of all three. Students spend less time writing coursework than on making a term paper, but this type of work requires more time and efforts than an ordinary essay - it is made of several essays. Thanks to our guide, each student can discover how to write coursework. If you are running out of time or lack experience to complete the specific coursework, we recommend using our coursework writing services to hire professional academic writers.

What is Coursework and Why Does It Matter?

Coursework definition: General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) coursework is a typical academic assignment, given in the course of study to evaluate the student’s knowledge, skills, and identify the final grade. Many students face this type of writing in the US colleges. One of the examples is a coursework UTD (The University of Texas at Dallas) - the requirements of this institution are strict, and many students fail to submit their papers and pass the corresponding courses.

Such type of assignment helps to have the ‘detective’ hat on: a student observes, examines, and evaluates the chosen topic using credible, up-to-date, and relevant sources. Working under controlled conditions is important. Participating in every school class will help to prepare good coursework by the end of the term. Take a look at the examples of what students of various profiles may face:

• English Composition - English coursework is an extended essay in most cases. A student has a right to pick the topic. The tutors provide their students with the list of recommended titles to choose from, sources to observe & analyze, and a format (e.g., a comparison between different relevant articles)
• Sciences - coursework for science is a complicated assignment. Such type of work appears in the form of a scientific paper to test what a writer investigates and reports independently.
• Geography - geography coursework is about collecting, reporting, and explaining information to reply to a certain geographical question or offer solutions to the problem. One idea is to explore the usage of a shopping mall or analyze the recent tornado. No matter whether you have to prepare a coursework Columbia or such paper for other educational institutions, keep in mind these differences!

Types of Coursework Explained

English Language coursework is the most common type of this assignment. At advanced GCE level, the student will be expected to write a couple of essays, totaling 3,000 words. Every assignment is 20 marks maximum.

An analytical essay : Evaluate, compare, & contrast 3 different sources of data interconnected by a common theme; written /spoken / multimedia content. Discuss different uses for targeting various audiences. Learn more on our blog.

Original essay with a supportive commentary : A student will have to come up with a single piece of media writing in the observed modes (written, spoken, or multimodal). Add a supporting piece with details about the aspects of English language. English Language & Literature coursework is a bit different. The basic requirements are the same, and the parts are:

An analytical study : Sharing an analysis of the chosen piece and its relation to the related content. It will show how well the writer understands the original piece. Tutors grade such works based on the:

• Use of the proper terminology and the coherence of the written words;
• Understanding & evaluation of the way a structure, form, and language create the written & spoken word;
• Opportunity to observe relationships between various pieces of writing.

Creative writing & commentary : Produce a creative piece that imitates the style of the assessed text. Share comments to backup your understanding. The goal is to show the knowledge, prove the competence, and use appropriate language skills in communicating with the target audience. You will also need a relevant coursework resume (review) in both cases. Keep on reading to learn how to write coursework of A level.

How to Write a Coursework: Guide for Students

Several factors may lead to the coursework being disqualified. It is a serious matter! The risk factors include:

• Plagiarism - it is the worst thing that could happen to any type of academic assignment. Lots of relevant information is available on the world wide web today, and the tutors are strict about the issue of plagiarism. Write everything in your own words! If you decide to insert the quotes from the sources, apply the suggested citation format and develop a list of references. Sign the declaration claiming it is your original project. If you're unsure about how to approach this, seeking professional help by choosing to write my coursework can be a wise decision.
• Word count - do not ignore the specific requirements concerning the length of the coursework. Specify if the footnotes, appendices, & references are included in the word count.
• Topics - go through the list of available themes. If there is an examination planned on the specific topic, try to pick another idea for the coursework.
• Tutor’s assistance - do not ignore the help of your instructor, ask them to provide guidance on what to write. Ask the questions to learn more details, but keep in mind they can go through the 1st draft once and just offer some general recommendations.

Choosing a Topic for Your Project

Dedicate enough time to this extra important question. Select the field of your interest if it is possible to relate it to the course. That is the golden rule of choosing a coursework topic - keep in mind the rest of the hints:

• Analyze the offered list of topics or develop yours
• Pick a topic from the area of your expertise related to the studied subject
• Select the topic you are interested in
• Choose the topic you’ve started to observe in the past
• Check how much relevant, up-to-date information is available on the Internet about each of the topics
• Pick what you can measure, change, & control (they call it a ‘fair test’)
• Use the ideas of previous researchers and students
• Do not choose a topic with a vast scope - you risk struggling to research it correctly

10 Good Coursework Topics

• Non-traditional Forms of Poetry with TC Tolbert
• Documentary Foundations: Usage of Oral Histories with Beth Alvarado
• Traditional Forms of Poetry
• Hermit Crabs: Type of Fiction
• Writing the Autobiographical Poem
• Creative Non-Fiction on the Examples of New Journalists
• Authors without Borders
• Writing the Sticky Stuff
• Socially Engaged Literary Arts
• Common Vocabulary

Research & Data Collection

Research is an integral part of coursework. Have you written research papers before? If yes, you will find it easier to select proper primary & secondary sources and gather the necessary information (evidence to support the main point - thesis). Depending on the required paper format, cite & reference the following sources:

• Books & e-Books

Base the project on a specific hypothesis. The research must start with minimum one hypothesis. The research stage for some topics may consist of visiting websites to collect information. Leave another time for collecting the data as it is the heart of the research. Three methods of data collection are known:

• Direct personal investigation : The one an author does individually (using literature and findings from previous studies);
• Interview/Questionnaire : The researcher should gather the data from the respondents asking questions regarding required data;
• Discussion with community leaders : Community leaders are approached to fetch information for the necessary data.

In case a student works on a scientific experiment, they should pay attention to planning the analysis with the help of rigorous scientific methods (keeping in mind the Health & Safety precautions you take). Review background information and theories. Take notes to express what you expect to occur to compare & contrast it to what happened in real life. In the write-up stage, one has to evaluate and present the findings.

Writing a Coursework Outline

The writing process follows the research. Do not start it without preparing an action plan and scheduling the work - a paper pin for English coursework is based on an extended essay . An outline will look different for the science coursework projects. The goal of creating a plan is to prevent a writer from being disorganized and waffling.

Let us explain coursework outline on the specific example - a project on the global pursuit of lower costs and the role of human rights.

Start with the brief introduction explaining why it might be a topic of interest for many people. Mention those vast corporations like Wal-Mart abuse human rights by choosing and using child labor in the factories.

Provide an overview of the problem . Define human rights and costs. Pick the definitions from the official dictionaries and cite them properly when inserting in the text. Try to explain the terms in your own words.

Develop a body of the coursework , start with the case for & against ethical business practices. Using evidence and examples, list the arguments supporting ethical business practices and another side of the coin. Include a business case for ethical practices after the opening body paragraph.

Move to discussing ethical responsibilities ; explain why business organizations should care about the ethical aspects of their activities. After three sections of the body, one can conclude the paper. It can be a good idea to share a fact or statistics stressing the importance of research problem in the essay conclusion. End up with the reference list that may look this way:

• Klein N (2000) No Logo (Flamingo, London)
• Marcousé I, Gillespie A, Martin B, Surridge M and Wall N (2003) Business Studies 2e (Hodder Arnold, Oxon)
• Royal Dutch Shell (2006) 4th Quarter Financial Report at (site example)

Additional Elements

Supporting materials and pictures are a must! The sciences & geography projects require tables, charts, graphs, and other types of images to illustrate the complicated topic. Not only should you add the pictures - it is essential to interpret and reference each of them. A separate part of the coursework where the student list and explains every visual element is Appendix , and it is an optional part. The presence of appendix increases the chances to earn an A+.

How to Write an Introduction for Coursework?

Most of the students underestimate the role of introduction & conclusion when it comes to writing an essay. An eye-catchy introduction is a key to success. The primary purposes of a coursework introduction are:

• To grab the reader’s attention
• To introduce the topic
• To explain the research importance
• To come up with a compelling thesis statement

The opening paragraph shows the depth of the writer’s acquaintance with the topic. Look at the expert tips below. They will help to learn how to write a coursework introduction to make the tutor want to read your entire paper.

What Is an Introduction?

The introduction of GCSE coursework is the opening paragraph that aims to interpret the central questions and purposes of the entire paper. It should have several elements to be effective. Those are:

• A hook sentence
• Background information
• Problem significance
• Solid thesis statement

Advice from our Experienced Writer

How to write an introduction to coursework? The quality of this part predetermines paper’s success. Look at some common mistakes writers do while working on the coursework introduction - try to prevent them!

Ignoring the prompt. Many students tend to neglect the tutor’s instructions. It is critical to read the prompt several times, highlight the main points, research question, rules, and grading rubric details.

Missing a plan. The prompt does not always say to develop a coursework outline. Without a plan for every separate section, it is impossible to write a flawless piece step-by-step. No matter whether you have to write a term paper, research paper, dissertation, or C3 coursework, get ready with the detailed plan. Once you understand how to write an introduction, it will be easier to develop the rest of the paper.

For those who need a helping hand in ensuring their work meets all the standards and deadlines, don't hesitate to buy coursework from trusted professionals.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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Synonyms: passage , track , road , way

the course of a stream.

Synonyms: bearing

• advance or progression in a particular direction; forward or onward movement.

in the course of a year;

in the course of the battle.

One runner fell halfway around the course.

a course of action.

Synonyms: mode , method

the course of a disease.

Synonyms: career , process

• a mode of conduct; behavior.

a course of lectures;

a course of medical treatments.

a course in economics.

• a prescribed number of instruction periods or classes in a particular field of study.

The main course was roast chicken with mashed potatoes and peas.

• the line along the earth's surface upon or over which a ship, an aircraft, etc., proceeds: described by its bearing with relation to true or magnetic north.
• a point of the compass.
• Nautical. the lowermost sail on a fully square-rigged mast: designated by a special name, as foresail or mainsail, or by the designation of the mast itself, as fore course or main course.

Synonyms: layer , row

• one of the pairs of strings on an instrument of the lute family, tuned in unison or in octaves to increase the volume.
• the row of stitches going across from side to side in knitting and other needlework ( wale ).
• Often courses . Older Use. the periodic flow of blood and mucosal tissue from the uterus; a menstrual period.
• a charge by knights in a tournament.
• a pursuit of game with dogs by sight rather than by scent.
• golf course .

verb (used with object)

• to run through or over.
• to chase; pursue.
• to hunt (game) with dogs by sight rather than by scent.
• to cause (dogs) to pursue game by sight rather than by scent.
• Masonry. to lay (bricks, stones, etc.) in continuous rows.

verb (used without object)

• to follow a direction, route, or path; direct one's path.

The blood of ancient emperors courses through his veins.

• to take part in a hunt with hounds, a tilting match, etc.

the course of his life

they kept on a southerly course

the course of a river

a watercourse

a golf course

in the course of the next hour

the illness ran its course

if you follow that course, you will certainly fail

• a connected series of events, actions, etc
• a prescribed number of lessons, lectures, etc, in an educational curriculum
• the material covered in such a curriculum

a course of treatment

the fish course

• a continuous, usually horizontal, layer of building material, such as a row of bricks, tiles, etc
• nautical any of the sails on the lowest yards of a square-rigged ship
• knitting the horizontal rows of stitches Compare wale 1
• (in medieval Europe) a charge by knights in a tournament
• a hunt by hounds relying on sight rather than scent
• a match in which two greyhounds compete in chasing a hare
• the part or function assigned to an individual bell in a set of changes
• archaic. a running race
• as a matter of course as a natural or normal consequence, mode of action, or event
• the course of nature the ordinary course of events

the ship was in course of construction

• in due course at some future time, esp the natural or appropriate time
• adverb as expected; naturally
• sentence substitute certainly; definitely
• run its course or take its course (of something) to complete its development or action
• intr to run, race, or flow, esp swiftly and without interruption
• to cause (hounds) to hunt by sight rather than scent or (of hounds) to hunt (a quarry) thus
• tr to run through or over; traverse
• intr to take a direction; proceed on a course

Discover More

Other words from.

• mul·ti·course noun
• un·der·course verb undercoursed undercoursing noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of course 1

Idioms and Phrases

They will get their comeuppance in due course.

Of course I'll come to the party.

The language of the Romans was, of course, Latin.

More idioms and phrases containing course

Example sentences.

And, that can hamper a site owner’s ability to fully identify patterns of problems across the entire site, export more URLs by category, and then of course, address all of those problems in a timely manner.

A relatively tiny spend for someone like Bezos could alter the course of how we address climate change and what we focus on globally.

If you enter any keywords into Google Trends, you get to see how interest in that topic has increased or decreased over the course of time.

Home wins over Nebraska would not do much to help Maryland’s tournament résumé, but over the course of just a few days, the Terps could significantly improve their 4-9 Big Ten record.

Over the course of 2020, the paid search team drove a 137 percent year-over-year increase in CTR through keyword audits, URL audits, ongoing performance optimizations, and flexible allocation of budget to the most efficient keywords.

Its biggest asset, of course, is the steely Atwell, who never asks you to feel sorry for Carter despite all the sexism around her.

The U.S. military has said it is too early to make any conclusions, other than the war is on course.

“Competition is there, of course, but I think there is enough business for everyone as long as the demand is there,” he says.

All of these far future speculations, of course, depend on a series of “ifs.”

And of course, Rod, being Rod, goes for it a hundred percent; his mouth drops open and he says, ‘What?’

And she would be wearing some of the jewels with the white dress—just a few, not many, of course.

Of course, considerations of weight have to be taken into account, but the more mould round the roots the better.

Of course the expression of this value is modified and characterized by the nature of the thing spoken of.

What course was taken to supply that assembly when any noble family became extinct?

Of course it is only the hardiest Ferns which can be expected to grow well in the town garden.

Related Words

• preparation

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

How to Write a Course Description: Examples & Templates

February 13, 2023

For something that’s usually only a bit longer than the average tweet, a course description is a surprisingly powerful marketing tool. In fact, your course descriptions are one of the last marketing messages students see before they click “enroll.” Short but important, these can be tricky to write. That’s why we’ve put together some course description examples that will hook students and make your job easier.

Along with sharing our list of best practices, we’ll dissect a series of examples so you can see exactly what works and why. Use these course description templates to make creating your course catalog a breeze! 

Course Description Example 1: Get Students “Hooked”

Open every course description with a sentence that “hooks” the reader and then conveys the essential information in an accessible and engaging way. A hook can be anything that captures the prospective student’s attention or encourages them to keep reading. 

These can take a variety of forms, including:

• A callout to a specific audience.  Example: For a class on poker strategy, your “hook” could read, “ Calling all card sharks for this 4-week class that will transform your poker game as you learn how to read your opponents, spot tells, understand game theory, check-raise, bluff, and more.” 

Hooking the attention of your ideal student is important, but it’s just part of what a strong first line can do. You can pack a lot of information into this one sentence! 

Course Description Example 2: Keywords, Keywords, Keywords

Keywords help search engines find your course descriptions, which helps students find them too. When you write a course description, try to use the words a student is likely to use to search for courses on that topic. Use a tool like Semrush or Moz to do some keyword research. Find keywords that you can target and build your course description around those terms. 

But don’t go overboard. Remember that course descriptions are supposed to help the student, not just fit an algorithm. Use the keywords that make sense in context and relate closely to your program. 

Here’s an example of a course description that uses keywords effectively: 

Course Title: Breaking and Baking Bread

Course Description: Not your average bread baking class, this 6-week course shares the joy of making bread from scratch by breaking down the essentials of a great starter and giving expert tips about yeast and flour. You will bake breads such as sourdough, rye, brioche, challah, ciabatta, and popovers while learning about oven heating, mixing, kneading, fermenting, egg washing, and more. Your guests will clamor for the bread basket at your kitchen table and luxuriate in the smell of warm bread in your home after you become part of the ancient tradition of bread baking . 

This course description uses variations on the keyword “bread baking” to optimize for SEO. Try to use your selected keyword in the course title. Include three to five relevant keywords in the description as long as it sounds natural to do so.

Course Description Example 3: Outcomes Over Operations

While instructors tend to focus on things like course mechanics, lessons, and assignments, prospective students are more interested in what they’ll gain from taking the course. Will they earn a certification? Will they be a member of a group? Will they have a new skill to put on their resume? 

Use the course description to tell students about the outcome, such as:

• A formal certification 
• An advanced understanding of the topic
• Access to an exclusive group 
• A tangible skill or experience
• A portfolio 

The outcome should be closely related to the class topic and something that the student is likely to value. For example, a course on finance might promise students a personalized plan for reducing debt while a course on fashion might help students define their own style. Outlining these outcomes helps the student recognize the value the course will bring to their life. It can also set your courses apart from others on the same topic.

Here’s an example of a course description that focuses on the outcome:

Course Title: Finding Your Voice Through Songwriting 

Course Description: Make music that expresses your true self in this 12-session class that studies wordplay, poetry, and phonics to help you write lyrics that resonate. You’ll write and workshop two full songs and perform one at the final class meeting so you can experience the full process of songwriting , from ideating and conceptualizing to drafting, editing, revising, and finalizing. You’ll break down classic songs, mix melodies, and learn how legendary songwriters mastered their craft to gain a new appreciation for the art of making music. 

This description outlines several outcomes:

• Writing two full songs
• Experiencing the full process of songwriting

Each of these might be useful to the student on their own, but together they make for a unique and valuable course.

Course Description Template

We’ve covered a lot of examples, but let’s cut right to the heart of the matter.

A template that works for nearly every course description looks like this:

Course Title: Topic + Intended Audience (or) Topic + Outcome

Examples:  

• Topic + Intended Audience: Mindful Parenting for Busy Parents
• Topic + Outcome: Storytelling Through Portrait Photography

Course Description:

Sentence 1 hooks the reader by including the important information in an accessible, interesting way. 

Sentences 2-4 tell students what they gain from taking the course and include keywords. 

Sentence 5 tells students how to register. 

You can add a few more sentences if you need extra space to truly explain your outcomes and course structure. Just don’t get too lost in the details. If you do need to provide a lot of supplementary information like materials lists or policies, consider adding those as an attachment students can download and review. 

Here’s an example of how a course description comes together. 

Course Title: Make Your Home Garden Grow

Course Description: (1) Whether you have a green thumb or a brown one, this 8-session class will teach you how to grow and maintain an indoor garden of peperomia, snake plant, philodendron, English ivy, hoya, pothos, and calathea. (2-4) No matter the size of your space, you’ll create a thriving forest of greenery and gain access to a virtual gardening library which includes a comprehensive care spreadsheet for 200+ common houseplants, a guide to watering, an encyclopedia of perennials, and a manual for pruning. With a live online class format, you’ll get to work in your own garden space while learning about soil composition, sun exposure, seed germination, pest control, tool care, and more. (5) Register now!

A course description like this moves students to want to register. So make it simple for them to do. CourseStorm makes course registration simple and seamless. Add registration links directly to your course descriptions so students can go from interested to registered quickly and easily. Contact us today to get started or start your free trial now.

Nic is skilled in scaling start-up edtech and education organizations to growth-stage success through innovative marketing. A former journalist and copywriter, Nic holds a postgraduate certificate in digital and print publishing from Columbia University School of Journalism's publishing course.

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Definition of coursework noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

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An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Authenticate an official document for use outside the U.S.

Apostilles and authentication certificates are both ways of certifying that U.S. documents are genuine and can be legally recognized in another country. Learn when to use each.

What documents do authentication certificates and apostilles certify?

Apostilles and authentication certificates verify signatures, stamps, or seals on important documents. These documents can include court orders, contracts, vital records, educational diplomas, and more.

The country you will use the document in determines whether you will need an apostille or an authentication certificate.

How to get an apostille and when you need one

If the country where you want to use your document is on the 1961 Hague Convention member list , you will need an apostille.

• Documents such as vital records issued by a U.S. state will need an apostille from that state's secretary of state.
• Federal documents will need an apostille from the U.S. Department of State.

Learn the steps to take to get an apostille .

How to get an authentication certificate and when you need one

If the country where you want to use your document is not on the 1961 Hague Convention member list , you will need an authentication certificate.

Learn about authentication certificates , including:

• Types of state and federal documents requiring authentication
• The process of getting an authentication certificate
• Checking the status of your document

LAST UPDATED: February 13, 2024

Have a question?

Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

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Definition of vocation

Did you know.

When vocation was first used in English in the 15th century it referred specifically to a summons from God to perform a particular task or function in life, especially a religious one. This meaning is no surprise given the word's source: it comes from Latin vocation- , vocacio , meaning "summons," which in turn comes from vocāre , meaning "to call." Vocation also has a secular position in the English language as a word for the strong desire to do a certain kind of work, or as a word for the work itself, making vocation a synonym of the words calling and occupation .

Examples of vocation in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'vocation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English vocacioun , from Anglo-French vocaciun , from Latin vocation-, vocatio summons, from vocare to call, from vox voice — more at voice

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing vocation

• miss one's vocation

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Dictionary Entries Near vocation

Cite this entry.

“Vocation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vocation. Accessed 9 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of vocation.

Middle English vocacioun "a strong inclination to a particular course of action or way of life," from early French vocaciun (same meaning), from Latin vocation-, vocatio "summons," derived from vocare "to call" — related to advocate , provoke , revoke

More from Merriam-Webster on vocation

Nglish: Translation of vocation for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of vocation for Arabic Speakers

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Meaning of of course in English

• amen to that idiom
• couldn't agree more/less idiom
• I don't mind if I do idiom
• I know idiom
• why not...? idiom
• will do idiom
• you can say that again! idiom
• you can't say fairer than that idiom

You can also find related words, phrases, and synonyms in the topics:

of course | Intermediate English

Translations of of course.

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an animal that produces eggs and uses the heat of the sun to keep its blood warm

Worse than or worst of all? How to use the words ‘worse’ and ‘worst’

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