Independent Study/Practicum

Independent studies and practicums provide an opportunity to earn undergraduate and graduate credit through an individually designed course of study. After identifying a UMass faculty sponsor, an independent study registration form is completed specifying the department, course number, and credits. The objectives, planned activities and the method of evaluation are also required. The faculty sponsor’s signature is required at the time of registration; the department head’s signature is also required for fall and spring independent studies and practicums.

Registration for an independent study or a practicum begins on the first day of the current semester’s registration through Continuing and Professional Education; please note that this date does not always correspond to the date a semester’s registration opens through the university. The deadline to enroll in an independent study is the end of the add/drop period for the semester the independent study is taken.  

The cost of a practicum or independent study is $195 per undergraduate credit and $220 per graduate credit, with a non-refundable $45 registration fee. The cost of program (e.g. UWW, MBA, etc.) independent studies may differ; the course fees for these classes should be listed with the course and its description at www.umassulearn.net/classes.

Please feel free to contact the C&PE Registration Office at (413) 545 3653 or visit us at 100 Venture Way, Room 238 in Hadley. You can find the independent study registration form here.