Course Description
An Independent Study course is a student-centered learning experience that provides deeper academic understanding of a specific topic. The course allows you to study a specific area of interest with the support of a faculty mentor and is ideal for those who have previously studied a particular topic and would like to continue exploring it in more depth. The nature and scope of an Independent Study course may vary depending on student interests and needs. Independent Study courses are assigned an appropriate disciplinary code and the appropriate academic level depending on the nature of the specific course/project.

Students interesting in pursuing an Independent Study course must submit a proposal to the Umbra Institute Academic Director at least one month prior to the beginning of the semester. Once approved, an appropriate faculty member will then be identified as the advisor. During the first two weeks of the semester, a more detailed syllabus will be developed in consultation with your faculty advisor. Throughout the semester, you will work independently and meet weekly with your advisor to discuss your progress.

Approximately two weeks before the end of the semester, you will give a short oral presentation to your advisor about your work. You will then submit final assignments and participate in the Special Academic Events Week to present a summary of your Independent Study course to the Umbra community.

Please Note: This course may incur additional charges.

Evaluation
Independent study projects are evaluated based on the criteria established in the syllabus and approved by your faculty advisor.

Course Fees
Please contact the Umbra Institute regarding your independent study and the additional fees it may incur.  Fees may vary based on the nature and scope of the project.