UNC Kenan-Flagler faculty are innovative educators who are at the forefront of their academic areas, researching some of the most pressing issues facing business today. As a UNC Kenan-Flagler Business student, the best ways to get involved in research is to:
- Speak with the faculty who taught the course you have enjoyed and you performed well in. Share your interests in the topic and have an open collaboration on ways in which you could pursue it.
- Review faculty’s research area/interests and approach the professor to determine if they are seeking research assistants on projects.
In the instance that a faculty member offers an unpaid assistantship or mentorship on a topic area not currently provided through the BUSI course offerings, you may pursue an Independent Study course option.
INDEPENDENT STUDY
An Undergraduate Business Independent Study provides you the opportunity to pursue a special research interest under the direction of a faculty supervisor.
Independent Study does not substitute for an offered course and is not compensation for service as a teaching or research assistant, grader or other paid University work. Independent Study credit in not given for work you have already completed or will do as part of your established academic plan.
> Learn more about the UBP Independent Study policy
Eligibility:
- You must be a current UBP student (sophomore, junior or senior as defined by your terms in residence) in good standing (no honor court or Dean of Students disciplinary actions pending or otherwise).
- You must select a faculty advisor/supervisor before you submit the Independent Study Learning Contract.
- Independent Studies are not approved for first-semester UBP students. Normally, seniors should not take an Independent during your final semester, but exceptions are allowed.
- You may earn no more than three credits in BUSI Independent Studies.
Request for undergraduate business Independent Study
Submit the following documents to UBP Academics prior to the deadline:
- Independent Study Request Form
- Independent Study Learning Contract
- Independent Study Syllabus – view example
*All documents must be provided and fully completed prior to being reviewed for approval by the UBP Assistant Dean.
Independent Study Learning Contract and Syllabus
You should complete a Learning Contract and Syllabus with the instructor that includes:
- The number of hours per week you expect to work
- The number of required meetings between you and your faculty advisor during the term
- Reading and writing assignments and due dates
- Assessment information specifying how the final grade will be determined
- A brief work plan
Requirements:
- Get permission from the UBP Assistant Dean.
- Get permission from a faculty advisor.
- Provide regular updates to your faculty advisor.
- Deliver your work according to schedule (no incompletes).
Deadlines
Registration for an Independent Study course will only be completed after the learning contract and syllabus has been approved and no later than the last day of “late registration” (the end of the first week of classes in a fall or spring semester or the equivalent date in each summer session).