<p>UVa runs on a two semester secedule (fall and spring terms) with an optional ‘J-term’ (January term) between New Years and the start of spring term. There are courses in the summer. As UVa requires students to complete their degrees in 8 semesters you will find Charlottesville rather busy in the summer months with students picking up extra courses towards a minor, double major, doing research, and working. Other students will head home or to other cities to internships, or overseas on study abroad and service trips.</p>