Independent Study (numbered 191, 291, 391, 491, 591)

Qualified students may undertake special projects on a tutorial basis. Department approval of proposals is based upon the following criteria:

• The student has demonstrated readiness for independent work.
• A regular full-time faculty member agrees to supervise the study.
• Students may take no more than 12 credits of independent study – and, generally, no more than three per semester – during their total university career.

Students are to submit proposals that include the signatures of the faculty supervisor and the department chair to the registrar’s office in order to register for an independent study.

Readings (numbered 386, 486)

If the study is primarily a review of literature, the “readings” designation may be given. This type of study could be preparatory work for a research paper, particularly at the graduate level.

Teaching Assistantship (numbered 395, 495)

If a faculty member believes that a student has sufficient maturity in their field, the student may be offered the opportunity to assist in the teaching process. Responsibilities vary and may include the following: grading of papers and examinations; preparation of lectures, exams or experiments; tutorial assistance and discussion-group leadership; occasional lecture responsibility for the very mature student. TA enrollment per semester is limited to three credits. Students must complete the FERPA agreement.

Research Assistantship (numbered 395, 495)

If a faculty member believes that a student has sufficient maturity in their field, the faculty member may offer that student the opportunity to assist in research. Responsibilities vary. RA enrollment per semester is limited to three credits. Students must complete the FERPA agreement. The psychology department uses PY 394 for research assistantships.

Internships and Field Studies

A vital part of any liberal arts education is the integration of classroom studies with working environments off campus. All Whitworth students are encouraged to prepare for later employment through training in the professional community. Through these programs, students earn academic credit and/or pay by integrating classroom studies with actual work experience. They also build job-search skills that prepare them for future employment. Internship and field-study placements are available in all departments of the university. The Whitworth Career Services Office provides information and guidance. A mandatory orientation and contract must be completed prior to beginning the internship or field experience. Students should take no more than 12 credits of internships, during their total university careers.

Internships (numbered 290, 390, 490 or 590)

Internships are work-based learning experiences that integrate students’ academic coursework with career-related work experience in the major field. Sophomores, juniors and seniors are eligible for credit. Credit is typically limited to no more than three credits in a semester. Students must attend an orientation through the Whitworth Career Services Office to explore site possibilities and enroll in the class. Fall and spring semesters, Jan Term and Summer Term.

Field Study (numbered 280, 480)

This program provides students with the opportunity to explore a career area in any field of interest. The program is an observational, exploratory, hands-on experience. Students may participate at any time from the second freshman semester through the senior year.