Independent Study Courses

The option to design and complete a suitable independent project that does not duplicate a course offering is available in most degree programs. When appropriate, a course offering may be completed as an independent study under the individual guidance of a faculty member.

If an independent study course is desired, the student is responsible for planning the project, obtaining approval of the appropriate school dean or designee, and arranging for supervision by a particular faculty member. Faculty members have the right to decline the request for an independent study; however, every effort is made to accommodate a student’s independent study request.

Students wishing to register for an Independent Study must first obtain a faculty sponsor. Once a sponsor is acquired, an Independent Study Course Contract is completed by the sponsoring faculty member in consultation with the student and departmental leadership. After approval the contract is then forwarded to the Office of the University Registrar by the student for final registration processing. Please note the registration deadlines for filing an Independent Study Course Contract are published in the academic calendars. The project title for an independent study will appear on a student’s transcript once official grades have been recorded. For tuition rates contact the Student Accounts Office via email at studentaccounts@lesley.edu. 

Students in the doctoral program should refer to the Ph.D. program student handbook for independent study information pertaining specifically to doctoral students.