Independent Study in Sociology (S0 371 or S0 372) offers an opportunity to pursue empirical sociological research or investigate areas of study not otherwise covered by existing courses in sociology at the college. Students enrolled in S0 371 or S0 372 complete a collection of readings approved by the supervising member of the sociology faculty. In some cases, students may also conduct empirical sociological research. The student and supervising faculty member regularly meet to discuss the readings and/or research. Meetings are usually once every week or two weeks. As in any course, evaluation is based on examination, a research paper, or other written work determined by the faculty supervisor. 

Enrollment in Independent Study is generally is limited to junior and senior sociology majors or self-determined or interdepartmental majors with sociological interests. Students should have completed SO 101 and usually several other Sociology courses. It is important to plan an Independent Study well before registration for the semester in which the Independent Study will take place (i.e., March for the Fall semester, November for the Spring semester). In order to enroll in S0 371 or S0 372, students must obtain the permission of a member of the sociology faculty who agrees to supervise their independent study and the permission of the department chair. Students should submit a written proposal that clearly indicates what they plan to accomplish to the faculty member who will supervise the independent study. Students must also make a convincing case that they are capable of independent study. Only under extraordinary circumstances may an Independent Study in Sociology cover material similar to that covered by existing courses at the college.  

If you and your thesis advisor think your independent study project is of high quality and you want to share your work with the Skidmore community, you may want to nominate your project for inclusion in the Academic Festival held at the college each April. Contact the Dean of Studies office for information on the Academic Festival.