What is Independent Study?
Independent Study, often called I.S., is a required senior research or creative project completed by every student at The College of Wooster. Independent Study allows students to explore a topic in depth with one-on-one faculty mentorship.
It is the signature academic experience at Wooster and a defining reason the College is nationally recognized for undergraduate research.
How Independent Study works
Independent Study is built into the Wooster curriculum across all four years. Students begin developing strong research and analytical skills in their first year. In the second and third years, they gain hands-on experience within in their major. During senior year, they complete a substantial Independent Study project with structured guidance from a faculty mentor.
By the time you begin your project, you are prepared to take it on with confidence.
Independent Study typically includes:
- Selecting a topic that reflects your interests
- Working one-on-one with a faculty mentor
- Conducting research or creative work
- Completing a final project that demonstrates original thinking and new knowledge
A milestone worth celebrating
Independent Study is not only an academic requirement. It is a campus-wide milestone. On I.S. Monday, seniors submit their completed projects and celebrate months of focused work.
For many students, it is one of the most meaningful days of their college experience.
Why Independent Study matters
Independent Study prepares students for graduate school, careers, and leadership roles. Through this experience, you will learn to:
- Manage a long-term project
- Think critically and solve complex problems
- Communicate clearly and confidently
- Adapt when plans change
- Take initiative and follow through
When you graduate from Wooster, you leave with more than coursework. You leave with a substantial project that demonstrates what you can accomplish.
What kinds of projects do students complete?
Independent Study projects vary by major and discipline. Students may complete:
- Scientific research or laboratory experiments
- Historical or literary analysis
- Business, economics, or policy research
- Art exhibitions or performances
- Applied projects such as digital platforms or community-based research
Each project reflects the student’s academic focus and curiosity. What remains consistent is the depth and originality required.
A place to focus and dive deep
Seniors are assigned their own study carrel in one of three libraries on campus, a dedicated space to think, read, write, and revise.
Independent Study requires focus and discipline. Having space that is truly your own helps you do your best work.
Faculty mentorship at the center
Faculty mentorship is central to Independent Study at Wooster. Each student works closely with a professor who provides feedback, guidance, and support throughout the process.
You are expected to think independently, but you are never expected to navigate the experience alone. Faculty advisors challenge your ideas, help you refine your work, and support you when the process becomes demanding.
This close mentorship often becomes one of the most valuable relationships of a student’s time at Wooster.
Nationally ranked undergraduate research
The College of Wooster is consistently ranked among the top colleges in the United States for undergraduate research. Independent Study plays a central role in that recognition. Graduate schools and employers recognize a Wooster Independent Study as evidence of intellectual independence, persistence, and real research experience.
Sharing discoveries with the community
Independent Study culminates in the Senior Research Symposium, where students present their work to faculty, peers, families, and community members.
It is a moment to share discoveries, celebrate accomplishment, and recognize the depth of work completed throughout the year.
What you gain from Independent Study
By completing Independent Study at Wooster, you graduate with:
- A substantial, original project
- Close faculty mentorship
- Experience conducting in-depth research or creative work
- Confidence in your ability to tackle complex challenges
Independent Study is more than a requirement. It is a defining part of the Wooster experience and a powerful step toward your future.