Independent Studies in Politics and Society

Do you want to investigate a political or social issue more deeply? Would you like to explore a thinker or works of political and social theory, or create practical or visionary solutions to political or social problems? Are you interested in US or international political issues? This program will support students in developing and completing a ten-week independent study project in these and other topic areas that a student may propose which relate to politics and society. Although the bulk of this work will be conducted independently, all students will be required to participate in some group activities and occasional meetings with faculty and other students. All students will be required to write mid-quarter and final self-evaluations as well as a final presentation.

This program is ideal for self-motivated students who have a passion for research or for combining research with experiential learning. Previous coursework in social or political topics (whether domestic or international) and interest in developing a particular path of study in this area is beneficial, but not required.

When contacting faculty for a signature, registering for 16 credits is assumed. If you'd like to register for 8 or 12 credits, that is possible if you let the faculty know.

Schedule

In the first two weeks, student will develop their projects with faculty support and identify learning objectives, activities, and outcomes. Students will then undertake their independent projects on their own, coming back together for a mid-quarter presentation of their work in progress. Then independent work will continue, documenting and consulting with faculty to bring the project to completion, leading to a final presentation of their work in week 10.

In-person meetings are required during weeks 1-2, 5, and 10; at other times students may work remotely.

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies