Policy Rationale
Vermont State University (VTSU) recognizes there are times when a student may need access to courses in order to maintain progress toward graduation or to engage in advanced learning.
Policy
An instructor may choose to offer a tutorial if a course is likely to be cancelled due to under-enrollment or not regularly scheduled. Students completing a tutorial meet the same course learning objectives, follow the same syllabus, and submit the same assignments as if they were taking the course with a full class. The student meets regularly with the faculty member and meets the same requirement of 45 total hours per credit.
An independent study is designed to provide degree students with the opportunity to work individually with a faculty member in a subject area or on a project that is normally not available through regular course work. A student pursuing an Independent Study works under the direct and regular supervision of a faculty member. The goals, objectives, and performance measures are defined in a formal document between the faculty supervisor and the student and approved by the sponsoring department and the Provost or their designee.
Note: Students receiving Veteran’s educational benefits must comply with specific VA regulations regarding Tutorials and Independent Studies.
Procedures
- A student or a faculty member may initiate a tutorial or independent study.
- Once agreed upon, the faculty member submits a form on behalf of the student for enrollment in a tutorial or independent study. The submission must attach a syllabus of the course being taught as a tutorial or the written document outlining the study and deliverables of the independent study. The form is available on the Portal under Faculty Forms.
- The form is routed to and must be approved first by the Department Chair and then by the appropriate Dean of School.
- Once approved the form is routed to the Registrar’s Office for enrollment.
Responsibilities
Students:
- Must meet the objectives of Tutorial or the Independent Study.
Tutorial or Independent Study Instructors:
- Communicate expectations for a Tutorial.
- Work with the student to decide upon the content and deliverables for an Independent Study.
- Ensure adequate contact time for supervision and enough content to meet the 45 total hours per credit requirement.
Related Documents and Forms
Course Tutorial & Independent Study
Related Policies
Undergraduate Credit Hours & Faculty-Student Engagement
Date of Last Approved Revision: March 2025
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