COP 03-0612: Individualized Study

Purpose Statement

This Procedure defines individualized study and describes the process for authorizing individualized study at Florida SouthWestern State College (the "College").  

Guidelines

Individualized Study, as described herein, leads to the completion of a college course and the receipt of academic credit. The content of the learning experience is completed under the direction of a professor assigned to work with the student independently of the normal class schedule. While the College recognizes the legitimate need for such learning experiences, the College's policy is to limit the use of Individualized Study to the following circumstances: (1) a course required for graduation or planned program progression is not being offered on any campus and an appropriate substitute is unavailable or (2) a student and faculty member have designed an individualized research project or practical experience that supports achievement of program outcomes.

Procedures

1. Determination.
   1. The determination of whether an Individualized Study is warranted involves communication between a student, a faculty member, and/or a program administrator(s).
   2. Once the need is determined, a student and faculty member would collaborate to complete the Individualized Study Form (available on the Faculty and Staff Resources webpage) and submit it to the Academic Dean or designee prior to the drop/add deadline for any given semester. Approval must be obtained before a student is allowed to take an Individualized Study course.
   3. Once the form is approved, the student may register for the class. It is the professor's responsibility to prepare the syllabus for each Individualized Study course and to meet regularly with the student(s).
2. Grading System.  The standard College grading system applies to all Individualized Study courses. Grades earned through Individualized Study have the same status as those earned through regular class attendance.