Contact: Maridith Geuder
STARKVILLE, Miss.--New academic offerings, along with established online courses, are enhancing Mississippi State University's independent study fall lineup.
Beginning with the fall semester, which gets under way Aug. 18, students may enroll in any of approximately 65 independent study courses available.
New additions such as advertising, business statistics, and society and religion will join previously offered courses ranging from music appreciation to trigonometry, said Tamra Swann, independent study college coordinator for MSU's Division of Academic Outreach and Continuing Education.
"Students pick the course, the time and the location," Swann explained. "Independent study courses provide flexibility and allow students to choose between Web-based delivery or traditional textbook-based offerings."
She added that independent study gives students the option of completing a course entirely from home and provides up to one year to complete course requirements.
Web-based courses provide online access to the instructor and assignments, as well as links to university resources. Textbook-based courses are designed around a study guide, textbook, lessons and exams. Some courses may have supplemental videos, audiocassettes and computer software to enhance the learning process.
"Independent study courses are a great option for students who cannot access a traditional campus course during a certain semester," Swann said, noting that all courses are taught by university faculty members.
"Independent study provides a viable learning alternative by overcoming geographic and time barriers," said Rusty Foster, MSU independent study manager.
A complete listing of MSU's independent study courses, as well as information about tuition, fees and financial aid, is available at www.is.msstate.edu. For more information about independent study, telephone Swann at 662-325-2077.