Guidelines for Independent Study

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? academic advisor and the teaching unity at the beginning of the semester.

Guidelines for 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 a periodic contact and consultation throughout the study;
5. Not exceed eight semester hours of credit in a single semester;
6. Not exceed 10% of the credits earned in a bachelor's program;
7. Be applied for on the form provided by the University, or any equivalent deparmental or College form;
8. Be approved on this form before the student inrolls for the course.

Application and Enrollment

Please complete the form, obtaining indicated approvals and necessary overrides before enrollment for the course.