Center for Continuing Studies

Bachelor of General Studies/Professional Studies

Independent Study Guidelines (GS 3099)

Independent Study is an opportunity for students to pursue an academic topic in depth, and/or to undertake a significant research project under the guidance of a faculty member. Independent studies should cover academic topics that are not typically included in regular course offerings. Each independent study should involve a theme; a problem to be investigated, an issue to be explored, or an argument to be defended. Students should have a compelling interest in the proposed study and should have completed courses that would provide the appropriate background or preparation for the independent study.

One to six (1-6) credits may be earned. No more than six (6) credits of independent study may be attempted in a single semester and no more than nine (9) credits total can be applied toward the BGS/BPS degree.

Instructions

  1. Obtain a faculty supervisor to oversee the independent study. The faculty supervisor will be a full or part-time UConn faculty member with expertise in the proposed field of study.
  2. Together with the faculty supervisor, complete the Independent Study Proposal Form. Included should be a detailed and coherent proposal that identifies learning objectives and resources required to achieve the learning objectives, strategies for how the learning objectives will be obtained and criteria for final evaluation and grading.
  3. Sign the Independent Study Form (student and faculty). Return to your advisor. Your BGS/BPS advisor will submit your proposal to the Director of Degree Completion Programs for final approval.
  4. Register for GS 3099 once final approval is granted. You will be informed of approval via a letter from the Director of Degree Completion Programs.
  5. Note: Independent Study Proposal forms must be approved in advance and no later than the second (2nd) week into the semester in which the independent study is taking place. Late registration may not take place except by permission of the Director of Degree Completion Programs.

How to Write Learning Objectives

Learning objectives provide specific accounts of what you intend to learn from, and goals you wish to accomplish during your internship. Establishing learning objectives will help you to get the most out of your internship experience. It is your responsibility to create at least three, but no more than five learning objectives. To start, ask yourself the following questions: What skills do I want to learn? What will I do to grow as a person? What will I do to advance my professional growth?

Sample Learning Objectives

  1. To learn the format, structure, and technique of group therapy. (skill)
  2. To become familiar and comfortable with facilitating recovery groups. (personal growth)
  3. Explore the operations of the court system for possible career in the legal field. (professional growth)

For more information on writing learning objectives, refer to:

Revised – June 2011