When can students pursue independent study?
Exceptionally qualified students entering their third or fourth year may take a program of independent study provided it has been approved both by the Associate Dean (Studies) and by the Department or Departments principally involved.
How many units can be earned in an independent study?
The number of units determines the associated course code for independent study in Computing:
- CISC 594/3.0 for a 3.0-unit course;
- CISC 595/6.0 for a 6.0-unit course;
- CISC 596/12.0 for a 12.0-unit course;
- CISC 597/18.0 for an 18.0-unit course; and
- CISC 598/9.0 for a 9.0-unit course.
Do the units earned count towards a concentration?
A Department may approve an independent study program without permitting it to be counted toward a concentration in that Department. It is, consequently, the responsibility of students taking such programs to ensure that the concentration requirements for a degree will be met.
With permission of the Undergraduate Chair, an Independent Study course can be used to satisfy a CISC 499/3.0 plan requirement.
How do I receive approval for a program of independent study?
Complete the request form (under the heading 'Independent Study Form') and submit it to the Office of the Associate Deans (Studies). Requests for such a program must be received by one month before the start of the first term in which the student intends to undertake the program. Requests must include:
- a detailed outline of the project, including its aims, thetopics to be studied, and a preliminary list of readings;
- the names of the faculty members supervising the project, including the principal coordinator;
- the number of units for which the project is to substitute, based on an estimate of the amount of work to be covered by the project, taking into account the planned learning hours; and
- the method by which the student's performance is to be evaluated, and the method by which the grade or grades will be assigned.
The Associate Deans (Studies) may, in consultation with the student and faculty members involved, propose modifications in the project, particularly with respect to the number of units to be assigned to it. The Associate Dean (Studies) may require an interview with the student.