Independent Study

Students who have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher are eligible to propose a semester-long Independent Study course, equivalent to three credits of a liberal arts or studio elective. Normally, Independent Study courses are available to enable students to pursue a topic of interest that is not available in the curriculum. There is a limit of one three-credit Independent Study per semester; a maximum of six credits of Independent Study are permitted in any degree program. In certain circumstances, due to the proposed project scope, a 1.5-credit Independent Study may be appropriate, and the accompanying course expectations will be adjusted accordingly. Independent Study credits are graded and cannot be taken on a Pass/Fail basis.

In accordance with accrediting agency guidelines for all coursework, the following expectations are in place with respect to time commitments for Independent Study:

1. Studio credit: 1 semester hour of credit is earned for a minimum of 1.667 contact hours (100 minutes) of classroom instruction and 2-2.667 hours (120-160 minutes) of outside classroom preparation per week.
2. Liberal Arts credit: 1 semester hour of credit is earned for a minimum of 50 minutes of classroom instruction and 40 minutes of outside classroom preparation per week.

Normally, for a 3-credit experience, students should expect to meet with their faculty sponsor for the equivalent of one hour weekly throughout the entire semester.

Students should initiate the Independent Study process by meeting with an adviser in Academic Services. Proposals must then be approved by a faculty sponsor, the department chair of the area where the credit will be applied, and the Vice President of Academic + Faculty Affairs. Approved proposals are then submitted to the Registrar so they can be added to students’ course schedules.

Faculty sponsors of Independent Study courses will mentor students throughout the semester and evaluate their coursework. Faculty members must be approved by the Vice President of Academic + Faculty Affairs to teach the proposed subject.