Independent Study

Public service independent studies are educational experiences based upon a collaborative partnership between the university and the community. Semester-long volunteer assignments will not be approved for public service credit. In their independent study program, students must apply academic knowledge and critical thinking skills to meet genuine community needs. For example, community based research projects are excellent candidates for public service credit. Students will be expected to provide their community partner with tangible products of work that benefits their partner organization.

To receive public service credit:

• Public service independent studies must first be approved by the student's academic department and must include faculty supervision. Students should check with their academic or faculty advisor to learn more about the independent study approval process.
• Once the student has received approval to complete an independent study, the student must contact the Center for Public Service to petition for public service credit. Students must complete the Public Service Independent Study Petition form.
• All petitions will be reviewed by the CPS Petitions Committee. If approved, these petitions will be forwarded to Newcomb-Tulane College. This process may take several weeks, and does not need to be completed before the beginning of classes.

CPS offers small grants to support student's research efforts.  For more information,  please see our Grants page.