Independent Study, Research, and Tutoring

Looking to go beyond the classroom? As a Communication major, you can work one-on-one with faculty, pursue original research, or gain hands-on teaching experience as a tutor. These opportunities let you dive deeper into your interests, strengthen your skills, and prepare for your next academic or career step.

Independent Study and Research

Course Options

• Independent Study in Communication 04:192:491/04:192:492 (Does not count toward the major)
• Research in Communication: 04:192:470 (Counts toward the major)

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, you must:

• Be a declared Communication major with junior or senior status
• Have completed the following courses:
  • Introduction to Communication and Information Processes 04:189:101
  • Introduction to Media 04:189:102 or Information Technology and Informatics 04:189:103
  • Communication Theory 04:192:200
  • Communication in Relationships 04:192:201
  • Communication Research 04:189:300
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
• Obtain a faculty sponsor

How to Apply

• Contact a faculty member to discuss your project idea
• Prepare a one-page project description
• Agree with your advisor on expectations (meetings, assignments, grading)
• Complete and submit the appropriate application form:
  • Independent Study Application
  • Research in Communication Application

• Submit your signed application and unofficial transcript to the Office of Student Services, Room 214, before the end of the Add/Drop period
• Once approved, you’ll receive a Special Permission Number to enroll

Tutoring in Communication

Course Options

• Applied Study in Communication: 04:192:495 - 3-credit supervised study in communication pedagogy (does not count toward the major)

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, you must:

• Be a full-time Communication major with junior or senior status
• Have completed the following courses:
  • Introduction to Communication and Information Processes 04:189:101
  • Introduction to Media 04:189:102 or Information Technology and Informatics 04:189:103
  • Communication Theory 04:192:200
  • Communication in Relationships 04:192:201
  • Communication Research 04:189:300
• Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0
• Obtain a faculty sponsor

How to Apply

• Contact a faculty member to express interest
• Agree on meeting schedule and tutoring responsibilities
• Download and complete the Tutor Application Packet, which includes
  • Application form
  • Departmental tutor policy
  • Description of responsibilities
• Submit your signed application and unofficial transcript to the Office of Student Services, Room 214, before the end of the Add/Drop period
• Once approved, you’ll receive a Special Permission Number to enroll