Independent Study

An independent study is designed to provide the student with an opportunity to pursue a course that is consistent with their degree plan. An independent study is not a substitution of an existing course that is not offered at a convenient time or location for the student. The student along with his/her instructor, is to design how he/she proposes to structure this independent study, when and how he/she is to meet with the instructor, and what method of evaluation is to be used. A syllabus for this independent study is to be attached to the request form.

Policy

These courses may be taken as an independent study with the concurrence of the instructor and the Vice President of Academic Affairs. This type of study is limited to two per student per degree. In rare instances it may be used in extenuating circumstances where an independent study is the only way to meet the student’s program requirements. In some cases, a course substitution is in the best interest of the student.

Students who wish to apply for an independent study must first see their academic advisors and then apply to the Vice President of Academic Affairs no later than one week before the beginning of the quarter during which they wish to take the independent study course.

Procedure

• The student must be in good standing and have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.5.

• The student first sees his or her academic advisor or the Student Services Office for an application form.

• The student should see a faculty member who agrees to sponsor the independent study. Together, the student and the faculty member decide on the meeting times, mode of instruction, student assignments and due dates, and evaluation of papers and/or projects. This information is to be attached to the form. Both student and faculty member are to sign the application form.

• The student then submits the application to the Vice President of Academic Affairs no later than one week before the beginning of the quarter during which the independent study will be taken.

• If the Vice President of Academic Affairs approves the application, he or she will indicate this on the application form and this will be forwarded to the Registrar’s Office. The student will be sent a copy of the approval form.

• If the Vice President of Academic Affairs does not approve the application, the student and the faculty member will be notified.