Course Outline and Guidelines
MUSI 4999, Section 26: Independent Study
and
MUSI 5300, Section 007: Investigation of Special Topics (Independent Study)
Course Description:
An independent study is an advanced, student-driven investigation of a particular theme or topic in (or related to) music, through projects and research. It is designed for students who have completed basic courses and who want to study specific topics that are not offered elsewhere in the curriculum. Independent Study provides an opportunity for a deeper understanding of a specific area or topic.
The student formulates the experience with the instructor who will direct the Independent Study. The content is, ultimately, personalized to the student’s interests and concerns, and thus is modifiable so as to create an exceptional learning experience. Specific learning goals are to be determined by the student at the beginning of the semester.
Semester: Fall 2025
Course #: MUSI 4999, section 26/MUSI 5300, section 007
Credits: variable
Instructor: Earl MacDonald, Professor of Music, Director of Jazz Studies
Class Meeting Times & Office Hours: by appointment
Office: Professor MacDonald is teaching online this semester.
Course Objectives:
The student will:
- develop and pursue a unique study through substantial research and/or creative activity that fosters professional development.
- document work and sources, thus establishing a record of the creative activity leading up to and including the final artistic products.
- gain a thorough understanding of the selected topic through investigation, and artistic practice.
- contribute original creative work/scholarship about the chosen topic, including developing a bibliography and summary of work.
Course Requirements:
An independent study student will:
- have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- submit a proposal to the instructor that details what the student would like to accomplish or address.
- submit a calendar that structures the independent study.
- develop a list of resources, including textbooks, journal articles, and other reading material, and online resources (demos, tutorials, participation in professional groups/message boards), artist interviews, etc..
- attend regular meetings with the instructor to review and evaluate progress toward the agreed-upon objectives.
- complete all agreed-upon assignments to a standard deemed acceptable by the instructor.
- write a final statement, reflecting upon the independent study experience.
Additional Requirements:
The number of credits attempted must be commensurate with the proposed assignments. For example:
- In general, spending approximately 60 hours working on a topic is equivalent to one credit of independent study. (4 hours per week x 15 weeks; 12 hours per week x 5 weeks, etc.)
- Ergo, 180 hours is equivalent to three credits (12 hours per week x 15 weeks)
- Ergo, 360 hours is equivalent to six credits (24 hours per week x 15 weeks)
- Time is adjusted for an intensive session, such as May Term. The necessary 60 hours per credit must fit into the three-week session, i.e. 20 hours per week x 3 weeks.
Course participation:
Expect to meet weekly or bi-weekly with the instructor for discussion, advising, and constructive criticism. However, students are personally responsible for the development and progress of the project. Contact via email, phone, ZOOM or Facetime is appropriate in addition to a physical meeting or if a physical meeting is not possible.
Grading:
Grades for independent studies may range from A to F, depending on the degree to which the student completes the study. Any student not completing the study will earn a failing grade.
Regular participation in meetings is required and essential for success. If special circumstances arise, the student must contact the instructor as soon as possible.
Communication policy—E-mail is the instructor’s preferred method of communication with students. Please allow 48-hours for replies. When requesting a meeting with me outside of my office hours, please submit several meeting time options. I prefer to be addressed as Professor MacDonald.
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https://policy.uconn.edu/2011/05/24/people-with-disabilities-policy-statement/
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https://community.uconn.edu/the-student-code-preamble/
Policy on Academic, Scholarly, and Professional Integrity and Misconduct
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Counseling and Mental Health Services: (860) 486-4705, or after hours: (860) 486-3427
www.cmhs.uconn.edu
Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills: (860) 486-3013
www.career.uconn.edu
Alcohol and Other Drug Services: (860) 486-9431
www.aod.uconn.edu
Dean of Students Office: (860) 486-3426
www.dos.uconn.edu