The purpose of independent study is to allow the student to pursue academic interests that may not be adequately covered by or available within the regular course offerings. Students who demonstrate the ability to undertake independent study may engage in intensive research or in a project on a topic of merit and originality under the sponsorship of a faculty member.

Students interested in undertaking independent study should seek consultation from a faculty member or the department chair. Requests submitted by the adviser or faculty member are approved by the department chair, and then go to the dean for approval. The faculty member must submit the following information on behalf of the student:

1. Requirements to be completed demonstrating successful completion, e.g., case studies, paper.
2. Readings where appropriate or review of the literature.
3. Whether the faculty member is seeking workload credit.
4. Number of course credits and hours of work per week or semester.
5. Evaluation method.

Requests for independent study must demonstrate that the amount of work to be done is equivalent to what would be done in a regular course, i.e., a three-credit Independent Study request should demonstrate that 45 hours of work will be done in addition to assignments, research, and/or readings as would be expected in a regular course. Required courses may not be taken as independent study. An exception may be made when a required course is not being offered in the student’s last semester or if two required courses are being offered at the same time in the student’s last semester. Independent Study must be graded and may not be taken for pass/fail. Students can take Independent Study from 1–3 credits. Requests for independent study beyond 3 credits will need approval from the provost.

Independent study is open to junior and senior undergraduate students and graduate students, and no student may take more than 12 credits of independent study toward their undergraduate degree, or 6 credits toward their graduate degree. Students should consult with their academic adviser about the regulations governing independent study. Permission forms for Independent Study are available from the Psychology Department Office.