Directed Study

School of Management Policy

Undergraduate

A directed study is a coherent, well-defined, and substantive reading and research project supervised by a faculty member, usually resulting in a major written document. It is not credit for work experience. Rather, it offers the student an opportunity to explore in detail a carefully defined area of special concern, as well as a chance to work under the close supervision of a faculty member. A directed study should be approved no later than the last day of the add period. Counting as an SMG elective, the directed study should be approved no later than the last day of the add/drop period; it is billed as a 4-credit course unless otherwise indicated by the faculty member.

For procedures for approval, applications, and further information, inquire at the School’s Undergraduate Program Office, or download the Directed Study Application here.

Graduate

Investigation of Area of Interest

Students who wish to conduct research in a specific area of interest under the guidance of a faculty member may apply for directed study. Directed study is the equivalent of a 2- or 4-credit course. It may not substitute for a required course or duplicate an elective course. Upon completion of the directed study, the student receives a grade from the sponsoring faculty member.

Procedure for Directed Study

To arrange a directed study, the student should:

• Obtain a directed study application from the Graduate Programs Office or download the form from the SMGTools site;
• Discuss plans for directed study with an appropriate faculty member;
• Negotiate area of investigation, requirements, and evaluation criteria with the faculty member;
• Complete the application for directed study and have it signed by the faculty member, advisor, and department chairman;
• Return the directed study application to the Graduate Programs Office (Room 104) for approval no more than two weeks after the start of the semester. Upon approval, the a course number for the class  will be assigned and the registration processed.