Independent Studies

About credits

A typical semester-long independent study is 3 credits. And only 3 credits of COMM 396: Independent Study can be counted toward the major. Any additional COMM 396 credits are treated as elective credits.

Workload

Each 3-credit independent study should be similar to a 3-credit course in terms of workload. In all cases, the independent study will require a formal written component (one or more research papers). Video or audiotapes, films, portfolios, and the like may also be submitted for evaluation, as determined by you and your sponsor.

What an independent study is not

Field experiences, such as internships and co-ops, cannot be used as independent studies. Field or work experience in organizational, institutional, or professional contexts earns internship credits, not Communication course credits, and cannot be used towards the major.

How to propose an independent study: 3 steps

1. Write a formal proposal in consultation with your faculty sponsor

Include a title and separate, numbered sections for each of the following six elements:

• A statement of the purpose/goals of the project
• A description of the subject matter
• An explanation of its relevance to your interests and/or major area of study
• A description of your proposed research methodology
• A preliminary working bibliography
• Information on the form and length of the final report

View several proposal samples.

2. Complete a "Cover Sheet for Independent Study Proposal" form

Your faculty sponsor must sign it. Be sure to specify the number of credits you want to earn. The maximum (and typical) number of credits for a semester-long independent study is 3. Fewer credits are possible, with proportionally less work.

Download the "Application for Independent Study" PDF form at the bottom of this page.

3. Submit the proposal and cover sheet to the Undergraduate Program Director

Your completed proposal must be received by the Undergraduate Program Director, Kimberlee Pérez, at least three workdays before the end of add-drop. If it is incomplete or fails to follow the guidelines outlined here, the UPD may ask you to revise it. If your proposal is accepted, Prof. Pérez will submit the form to the Director of Undergraduate Advising Marianne Neal-Joyce for enrollment. Any technical enrollment issues will be handled by the DUA. You will be registered for COMM 396. If it is incomplete or fails to follow the guidelines outlined here, the UPD may ask you to revise it.