Definition
At Michigan State University, Independent Study is planned study, highly individualized, not addressable through any other course format, proposed in writing by the student on a standard form, accepted for supervision by a faculty member, and approved by the student's academic advisor and the teaching unit at the beginning of the semester.
Guidelines
Independent Study should:
- Consist of work not described in the university catalog in any other format;
- Be taken under a course number commensurate with the student's class level, major field, and experience;
- Relate to a subject for which the student has adequate preparation;
- Be directed by a faculty member with whom there is periodic contact and consultation throughout the study;
- Not exceed 8 semester hours of credit in a single semester or summer session;
- Not exceed 10 percent of the credits earned in a bachelor's program;
- Be applied for on the form provided by the department or school or college;
- 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.