Independent Study (ENG 500).
The Independent Study fulfills elective credit in both master's programs. This option allows students to undertake intensive and advanced study of a topic that culminates in a major research paper or creative project. The Independent Study should not be used to fulfill requirements in the MA programs except in special circumstances to be approved by the program director. Instead, students should pursue an Independent Study to focus more intensively on an idea or a skill previously developed in their regular coursework.
An Independent Study may also serve as a gateway to the writing of an MFA Thesis: as preparation for taking Thesis Research (ENG 501) students may generate, in consultation with a faculty advisor, material that will develop into the thesis. Student interested in undertaking an Independent Study must first discuss their plans with their MFA program director and with the prospective supervising professor, under whose general areas of expertise the intended topic falls.
View additional information on applying for an Independent Study.