Quick answer
Independent study lets you complete, on an individual basis, a required course that is not available in the current semester, as long as it cannot be replaced by an equivalent course. It follows the same required class hours, and special cases are evaluated by the Director of Academic Affairs.
How it works
Some students need to take a required course from their curriculum that is not being offered in the semester they are enrolled in. For these cases, MUST University offers independent study: an alternative modality, completed individually by the student, to finish the course outside the regular class format.
Independent study does not change the course content: the course taken is still exactly the same required course from the curriculum, just in an individual format.
Deadlines and rules
Required criteria for the request
For an independent study request to be accepted, the three criteria below need to be met at the same time.
| Criterion | What it means |
|---|---|
| No equivalent substitute course | The course cannot be replaced by another one with equivalent content. |
| Course not offered this semester | The course is not being offered in the student's current semester. |
| Required course | The course must be required in the student's curriculum. |
Class hours
A course taken by independent study must follow the same established weekly instruction hour requirements as the regular format, even though it is taken individually.
Exception review
Special cases that do not exactly meet these criteria may be reviewed individually by the Director of Academic Affairs or their representative, based on the merits of the request.
Frequently asked questions
Can I request independent study for any course?
No. It is only possible for required courses in the curriculum that are not being offered in the current semester and that cannot be replaced by another course with equivalent content.
Does independent study apply to elective courses?
No. This modality is intended only for required courses in the student's curriculum, not for electives.
Are the class hours for independent study shorter than a regular course?
No. The course must follow the same weekly instruction hour requirements as the regular format, even though it is taken individually.
Who decides if my case can be an exception to the criteria?
The Director of Academic Affairs or their representative reviews special cases individually, based on the merits of the request.
Didn't work? Do this
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| I'm not sure if my course meets the criteria | Review the required criteria listed in this article and check your curriculum to confirm the course is truly required and not offered in the current semester. |
| I want to request independent study, or my case does not exactly fit the criteria | Open a ticket explaining the course and the situation, so the Director of Academic Affairs or their representative can review the request on its merits. |
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