In a long awaited decision, the Mercyhurst University Board of Trustees on Saturday, May 5, approved changes to the academic calendar, it was announced Thursday evening.

Beginning fall 2013, Mercyhurst will begin the 4-1-4 term system. Students will still be required to take 10 courses per year. This system will include two 14-week terms separated by a term in January called a J-term.

The J-term is intended to provide more focus on research, a single class or a study abroad trip.

According to the university’s press release issued Thursday evening, this will not impact students’ ability to graduate. There will be a special review for those with concerns.

Along with the news release, the university also issued a video with statements from President Tom Gamble, Ph.D., Vice President for Academic Affairs Phil Belfiore, Ph.D., Faculty Senate President Michael Federici, Ph.D., and Kenneth Zirkle, diector of administration for Mercyhurst North East, .

Despite any positive components to this new system, many students initially appeared upset with this decision. Shortly after students were informed of the calendar change, a Facebook group started in protest to 4-1-4. It is titled “Mercyhurst Students Against 4-1-4.” The site had more than 640 members within hours of the announcement.

For more information about 4-1-4 go here. Frequently asked questions can also be found here.