Graduate Independent Study
Independent study offers the above average student with substantial training in a communication subspecialty, an opportunity to individually shape a course of study with a faculty expert. An independent study is not a substitute for regular curricular offerings, a way around requirements or a scheduling alternative for students unwilling to accommodate the timetable of a needed course. Independent study is an avenue for continued learning, if a student possesses the initiative and discipline to both structure and pursue a course of study on fairly independent terms. The graduate faculty in the College of Communication affirm the following policies for independent study coursework.
The student must have a GPA of 3.25 or above in their graduate coursework.
The student must submit an independent study proposal that will contain as a minimum the following provisions.
· Title of the independent study course
· Description of course
· Rationale for study (why the “independent” dimension is required)
· Projected resources, bibliography of readings, films, tapes, etc.
· Assignments/projects envisioned
· Timetable, this should include in specific terms the number and dates of student/faculty meetings which will occur during the quarter.
· Evaluation criteria
· This proposal will serve as the course syllabus and it can be referred to in cases of grade challenges. Only changes mutually agreeable to student and advisor are permissible and then such amendments must be in place in writing and signed by both parties
· The student must have completed a minimum of six courses in their area of graduate specialization in order to be eligible for an independent study.
· The student must obtain a faculty sponsor who is willing to serve as a resource person and evaluator in accordance with proposal guidelines or ones mutually negotiated prior to the initiation of a course.
· The student must manifest the characteristics of initiative, discipline, independence, and persistence that makes successful accomplishment of the independent study seem likely.
· After the proposal is reviewed by the student’s advisor, the independent study approval form and completed proposal should be submitted to Professor Donald Martin, Associate Dean in the College of Communication
· The student must meet deadlines, keep appointments, and complete assignments/projects as agreed in the proposal. Substantial abbreviation of the timetable, which results in superficial study should be unacceptable and cause for appropriate action by the faculty advisor. The student agrees to work INDEPENDENTLY, thus it is NOT the faculty members responsibility to telephone, write, or otherwise follow-up in order to receive timely work.
Click here for a copy of the independent study form.