Course Description
The Independent Research course is a student-centered learning experience in which you engage in advanced research on your selected topic with the support of a faculty mentor. It is ideal for students who have previously studied a particular topic and would like to continue exploring it in more depth through individual research. Independent Research courses may vary depending on student interests and needs. They are assigned an appropriate disciplinary code and the appropriate academic level depending on the nature of the specific research project.
A minimum of one month prior to the beginning of the semester, you must submit a detailed research proposal to the Umbra Academic Director. Once approved, an appropriate faculty member will then be identified as the advisor. During the first two weeks of the semester, a more detailed proposal, bibliography, and project design will be submitted to the faculty advisor for approval, and a project timeline will be established. 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 and submit the first draft of your study. You will then submit your final draft of the research project and participate in the Special Academic Events Week to present the final results to the Umbra community.
Please Note: This course may incur additional charges.
Evaluation
Independent Research courses are evaluated based on the successful completion of the research project, the final presentation, and submission of a full-length study.
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.