It is possible for students to undertake Independent Study (ANTH 482) or Readings in Anthropology (ANTH 483) concerning topics not covered in the regular curriculum.
Students who wish to explore this option should begin by discussing it with their advisor. Coursework is to be developed by the student and supervising faculty member and explained in a one-page statement. This statement should outline the purpose, the topics to be covered, the reading materials to be used, and how the student's performance is to be evaluated. A timetable for completion of this work should be presented. It also should justify why this work is advisable for the student. Upon completion, the statement should be attached to an independent Study/Individualized Instruction Approval Form which must be signed by the student's advisor, the supervising faculty member, the chairperson, and the dean.
This form, which is available in the department office, should be filed at least three weeks prior to the start of the semester in which the work is to be completed.
Permission to complete independent study and readings courses in Anthropology is restricted to students who have completed at least 18 hours of coursework in Anthropology, excluding internships and other independent studies, and at least 80 hours of college coursework altogether. A 2.50 Q.P.A. also in required. Anthropology majors will receive priority in approval of independent study courses.
Independent studies or Readings may be authorized by the department for seniors who have not been able to schedule a required course. The faculty, however, will be reluctant to approve such coursework unless the senior has a legitimate reason for not having taken the required course when it was offered. Students should review the tentative schedule of courses included in this packet and discuss possible problems with their advisor promptly.
For more information please contact your advisor, or the chair of the department at:
Department of Anthropology
McElhaney Hall G12
Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Indiana, PA 15705
724-357-2841