Individually-Designed Concentration

To propose an individually-designed concentration, students must do the following:

1. Consult with an academic advisor to ensure you understand the requirements of the individually designed concentration. 
2. Identify the unifying interdisciplinary theme of your concentration. Consider what faculty would be appropriate as mentors and consult with them as needed during the development phase.
3. Identify the courses taken or planned. The list should be comprised of 55 credits, plus the 5 credit thesis. Meet with your SIAS academic advisor for assistance. This is essential for transfer students.
4. Draft a 2-3 page proposal that includes:
   • a brief descriptive title
   • the rationale for the proposed concentration
   • a general description of the concentration
   • a rationale and discussion of the interrelationships among the courses chosen
   • a complete course list (must include 55 credits plus the senior thesis)
5. Secure the support of at least one SIAS faculty member to be your sponsor for the concentration. The faculty sponsor attests to the intellectual soundness of the proposal and agrees to provide whatever guidance s/he and the student may jointly decide is needed. The faculty sponsor may also suggest changes in the previously approved written proposal or list of courses.
6. Choose one SIAS academic advisor to work with you to help keep track of your progress toward graduation.
7. Add the Agreement and Declaration page to the proposal and have it signed by the faculty sponsor and academic advisor. The Division Chair must also approve.
8. Submit the proposal for approval to the concentration coordinator by the end of the junior year.

Once your proposal has been approved, continue working with the concentration coordinator, your faculty sponsor, and your academic advisor to ensure your concentration is completed appropriately.