Independent Study is an opportunity for students to earn academic credit for learning outside the formal class structure under the individual direction of a faculty member. Independent Study is provided to fill an academic need of importance to the student that cannot be filled by the regular curriculum.
Students wishing to pursue an Independent Study with a College of Engineering and Applied Science faculty member must complete the following steps:
- Meet with the proposed Sponsoring Faculty Member to discuss an Independent Study proposal and review the potential project and deliverables.
- Complete the Independent Study Agreement Form. Include a complete written description of the project, procedure and deliverables (minimum of 250 words).
- Upon submission of this electronic form, your proposal will be reviewed by the appropriate parties. If enrolled, it is your responsibility to discuss with your academic advisor how this Independent Study course will apply toward degree requirements.
How to Enroll
The agreement for Independent Study is to be completed, signed, and approved by all parties prior to the initiation of the project, no later than one week prior to the end of the registration period.
Following the review and approval of the Independent Study Agreement by the appropriate parties, the student must enroll in the Independent Study course. Students are responsible for making sure registration holds and scheduling issues are resolved so enrollment in an approved Independent Study can occur successfully. Students should check BuffPortal after 10 days of receiving the completed Independent Study Agreement signed by all parties. If for some reason the student is still not enrolled in the course after that timeframe, the student should follow up with the sponsoring faculty member’s department.
Independent Study Agreement Form