Independent Study
At James Madison College, students can participate in independent studies to further their scholarship on specialized topics. All independent studies must be approved by a faculty member.
Fly Solo
Independent Study Description
At Michigan State University, Independent Study is a planned, highly individualized format, not addressable through any other course. Independent studies are proposed in writing by the student on a standard form, accepted for supervision by a faculty member, and approved by the student's academic adviser and the teaching unit at the beginning of the semester.
At Madison, the instructor who will direct the Independent Study must approve the course, as well as the student’s academic advisor OR the Director of Academic Affairs. To be eligible, a student must have at least a 2.0 cumulative GPA at the beginning of the semester, and be in good academic standing. Exceptions to these provisions may be made on the positive recommendation of the instructor and academic advisor, and with the concurrence of the Director of Academic Affairs. Please note that MC 490H is for honors independent study, and MC 495H is for senior honors thesis only.
Guidelines
Independent Study should:
1. Consist of work not described in the University catalog in any other format;
2. Be taken under a course number commensurate with the student's class level, major field, and experience;
3. Relate to a subject for which the student has adequate preparation;
4. Be directed by a faculty member with whom there is periodic contact and consultation throughout the study;
5. Not exceed 8 credit hours in a single academic semester;
6. Not exceed 10 percent of the credits earned in a bachelor's program;
7. Be applied for on the form provided by the department, school, or college;
8. Be approved on this form before the student enrolls for the course; registration should be completed by the end of the period for adding courses.