A three-week May term takes place each year immediately following the end of the spring semester, for the primary purpose of offering students a non-traditional college experience that supplements their regular program. The courses may take place off-campus and also may involve long distance travel. Experiences could range from a study of the history of California to cross-cultural immersion in Los Angeles or a foreign country. Course offerings will be determined during the fall semester of each year.

Students may enroll for one course during a May term. These courses range from one to three credits as determined by the May term director. Typically, May term courses will not satisfy core or major requirements, but instead will grant students elective credit. Cross-cultural courses taken during May term may fulfill the cross-cultural experience requirement (Please see the cross-cultural requirements.)

Students must participate in one May term before graduating from Providence. Normally, students will need to complete one May term during their first three years of college in order to graduate on time. The college will typically offer students at least two options that are planned and implemented by Providence personnel. Costs will be determined by the director of the May term for options provided by the college. Other May term options may be available through colleges of the CCCU on a space available basis. Programs sponsored by other institutions advertise their own costs, policies and procedures, and schedule. May term experiences completed through other institutions must have prior approval from the May term director and the Academic Dean to count toward the May term requirement. Students must present to the registrar certification indicating successful completion of the May term experience such as a course transcript, letter from teacher, director, supervisor, minister, etc. that describes the nature and duration of the experience.

May term costs will be posted with each May term option. Each student who desires to participate in a May term and has not previously participated in a one will be given a May term grant from Providence to help off-set the costs associated with the term. The student is required to pay any additional costs exceeding the grant. Providence is committed to offering affordable May term options for students.