Independent Study

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 adviser and the teaching unit at the beginning of the semester.

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 periodic contact and consultation throughout the study
  5. Not exceed 8 semester hours of credit in a single academic semester
  6. Not exceed 10 percent of the credits earned in a bachelor's program
  7. Be applied for on the form provided by the department or school or college
  8. 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

Steps for registering for independent study credits:

Step 1: Talk with the professor who will be supervising the Independent Study and together fill out an Independent Study form (PDF). Make sure you and the instructor sign the form.

Step 2: Turn in the completed and signed Independent Study form to the Academic and Student Affairs Office in room 189 Comm Arts. Students will be notified via email once the Independent Study form has been processed for final approval and the credits have been added to their academic enrollment.