What is an Independent Study?
An independent study offers a student an opportunity to pursue an independent topic of research under the supervision of a faculty sponsor for credit. Most independent studies are one semester, and can be 1 to 9 credits, but are typically 1 to 3 credits. Keep in mind, the Department of Art allows only 12 credits maximum internships/practicum and independent studies combined.
How to enroll into an independent study:
Begin the conversation with a faculty sponsor. This will typically be a faculty member from a course you have previously taken, or who's area of study aligns with your project. Review the following contract with your faculty sponsor, and complete and sign the contract. Submit the completed and signed contract to the Department of Art for enrollment into the course.
Scope of independent study contract:
- Learning Objectives: Briefly describe the general research topic and what you will specifically be examining. What skills or knowledge will you investigate? What do you hope to accomplish? How does this relate to your major?
- Learning Activities: What will you do to acquire the knowledge and skills described above? Will you be performing artistic research, learning experientially, practicing studio skills and techniques, reading texts, or some other method of learning? Describe your methods, using details.
- Resources: What types of sources [e.g. books, magazines, film, video] will you be using? If you know specific sources, list them here. Feel free to include non-traditional sources such as people or places.
- Criteria for Evaluation: How will your faculty instructor be evaluating your work? How often will you meet with your advisor? What forms of written or oral work will you be responsible for? What progress will your instructor be looking for? Will an on-site supervisor be communicating with the faculty instructor on record?
General Overview:
- Independent studies may not replicate existing course content.
- Approved independent studies typically involve students working on faculty-led projects (e.g., research, exhibitions, or community projects) or pursuing student-led special topics that align with the faculty member's expertise, after completing prerequisite coursework.
- Art Majors are given priority for independent study enrollment when requested. However, in rare cases Non-Art Majors are eligible to participate in Independent Studies with Art Faculty sponsorship.
- Art Minors cannot use Independent Study courses to fulfill minor requirements.
- DCT Certificate students cannot use Independent Study courses to fulfill certificate requirements.
- Enrollment in an independent study is not guaranteed.
Process for Enrollment in Independent Study:
- Students must first consult with a full-time Art faculty member. Part-time faculty and graduate students cannot sponsor independent studies.
- If students are interested in an independent study, they should:
- Speak with a faculty member to gain consent.
- Draft a plan for the IS with the faculty.
- Determine course hours and credit amount with the faculty.
- Locate an appropriate IS course number in the course catalog.
- Complete the independent study contract form.
- Ensure enrollment before the add/drop period ends.