Independent Study Courses
Unlike traditional campus courses, independent study courses offer you the ability to learn at your own pace. You have one year (52 weeks) to complete a course from the time you register, which is a huge advantage when time is not a commodity. Complete your course in the comfort of your home and plan your education on your own terms. These courses require access to a computer and the Internet. For current tuition rates for independent study courses, visit the Tuition and Fees page.
While independent study courses offer you more flexibility in your education, they are just as challenging and rewarding as on campus courses. Consider the following questions to see if independent study is right for you.
Can I learn the material with little or no faculty supervision or interaction?
Do I have the self-discipline to read the course text books and take well organized notes?
Can I use my time wisely and pace myself accordingly?
Print-based Courses
How Independent Study Courses Work (Print)
Following student registration in an Independent Study Print course, students will log into Blackboard Vista at http://online.usu.edu to access the course syllabus, textbook information and an assignment outline and/or structured lessons.
Students complete assignments and submit them to the USU Distance Education (DE) office via mail, e-mail or fax. Assignments are then forwarded to instructors for grading. The course instructor has two weeks (14 days) to grade assignments, make comments, answer questions, and return them to the DE Office to be mailed back to the student.
Scores for assignments and examinations may be accessed by visiting the Independent Study system. Examinations must be taken under the supervision of an approved proctor. For information on approved proctors, visit the Testing page.
Utah State University
Regional Campuses and Distance Education
Attn: Independent Study
5055 Old Main Hill
Logan, UT 84322-5055
Phone: (435) 797-9700
(800) 233-2137
Fax: (435) 797-1399
(888) 303-0012
Like print-based courses, students are given 1 full year from the start date to complete the course. Students may register for an online yearlong course at any time. Class materials and course work are delivered online through Blackboard Vista. Assignments are submitted directly to the instructor. Examinations must be taken under the supervision of an approved proctor. For information on approved proctors, visit the Testing page.
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