Independent Study provides students with the opportunity to work with a faculty member on a specific topic or issue of interest that might not otherwise be available in a structured course. Independent study courses are typically not available to students until they have completed the foundation curriculum. Independent study courses count toward the degree as would any elective.

Steps to Request an Independent Study

1. Your first step is to complete an intent form letting us know of your interest. It can be helpful to consult with a faculty member with whom you plan to work prior to intent form submission, but it is not required. 

   Independent Study Request Intent Form

   1. Intent Form Deadline for a Spring Independent Study: November 1
   2. Intent Form Deadline for a Summer/Fall Independent Study: April 1
      
      
2. After you submit the intent form, you will start on your proposal. To prepare, contact the faculty member you wish to work with on this course  (if you haven’t already done so) and present or confirm your idea(s) for an Independent Study. Discuss what you would like to study and how you propose to approach the learning process.
   
   
3. If you and the faculty member are in agreement, you will complete the MSW Independent Study Proposal Form.
   
   
4. Email the completed form, with faculty member signature, to the Office of Academic Affairs at gcswacad@central.uh.edu where your proposal will be reviewed.
   1. Proposal Form Deadline for a Spring Independent Study: December 15
   2. Proposal Form Deadline for a Summer Independent Study: May 1
   3. Proposal Form Deadline for a Fall Independent Study: July 15
      
      
5. Once approved, the Office of Academic Affairs will contact you with the course enrollment number and instructions for you to officially enroll in SOCW 7398 Independent Study in Social Work.

Important Deadlines

This process requires planning. You will need time during the preceding semester to discuss your work with faculty, time to develop a proposal, and time for review and approval. Please keep these important dealines in mind.