GUIDELINES:
Independent Research offers the above average student an opportunity to individually shape a course of study with a faculty expert. An independent study is not a substitute for regular curricular offerings, a way around requirements or a schedule alternative for students unwilling to accommodate the timetable of a needed course. Independent study is an avenue for continued learning for students who possess the initiative and discipline to both structure and pursue a course of study independently. The graduate faculty in the Master of Health Administration Program affirm the following policies for independent research coursework.
Independent Research Policy:
1. Student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above in their graduate coursework
2. Student must have completed a minimum of six courses in their graduate program
3. Student must obtain a faculty sponsor (in most cases the faculty member listed in the course schedule) who is willing to serve as a resource person and evaluator in accordance with proposal guidelines
4. Student must manifest the characteristics of initiative, discipline, independence, and persistence that makes successful accomplishment of the independent study seem likely
5. Student must meet deadlines, keep appointments, complete assignments/projects as agreed in the proposal. Substantial abbreviation of the timetable, which results in superficial study is unacceptable and may result in a poor grade. Work must be completed in order for the final grade to be posted in the semester the course is taken.
6. The student agrees to work INDEPENDENTLY, agreeing that it is NOT the faculty member’s responsibility to follow-up in order to receive timely work.
7. The student must complete the Independent Research Proposal, and it must be approved by the faculty member and the MHA program director.