Independent Study

Students seeking enrollment in BUS 281 (Individualized Reading and Research) must complete a standardized form describing the topic of study, plan of action, resources to be used, outcomes to be achieved, expected date of completion, number of hours sought, and faculty member approval. Students also must indicate why they are pursuing the particular topic and why the study cannot be accomplished within the scope of an existing course. Furthermore, they must provide justification for the number of hours they are requesting in light of typical course requirements (i.e., the amount of time involved in the study should parallel the time spent with a typical course of equivalent hours). Typically, independent studies involve, at a minimum, library research and/or a literature review with a paper and/or presentation.

The maximum number of hours that a student may receive towards their major requirements through BUS 281 is 3 hours. (Note: this may include two 1.5 hours courses). Also, when submitting proposals, students should note that hours generally will not be awarded for an internship. If a student is seeking to build upon an internship experience through an independent study, he/she may use the internship as only one supporting resource among others.

Proposals for independent studies must be submitted to the prospective faculty member before the midpoint of the semester preceding the semester of prospective enrollment. Because of limited faculty resources, proposals must be of the highest quality to warrant faculty involvement and approval. Students will be informed of approvals or disapprovals prior to pre-registration. Upon notification of approval, the student should submit the completed form for BUS 281 to Associate Dean Betsy Hoppe.

Any exceptions to this policy must be approved by the faculty of the Schools of Business.

Independent study forms are available in the Student Services Suite in Kirby Hall or on-line.