cross-listing

Definition

The bureaucratic magic trick where one course appears under multiple department codes, allowing professors to teach once while serving multiple masters. It's the academic equivalent of selling the same product under different brand names.

Example Usage

The professor cross-listed her Gender and Technology course under both Women's Studies and Computer Science, creating a beautiful collision of humanities and STEM students.

Origin

Developed as universities created more interdisciplinary programs requiring shared courses

Fun Fact

Cross-listed courses can sometimes save departments from having to hire additional faculty, making them beloved by budget-conscious deans and loathed by overworked chairs trying to track enrollment numbers.

Source: University registrar terminology and course management systems

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