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What is the Independent Studies Program?

The Independent Studies program on Kendall Campus is an alternative academic delivery system. Since its inception in 1983, it has been designed to deliver high quality education in a convenient format. Students mostly study independently and are only required to report to campus for exams.

How Does it Work?

Each course is accompanied by two things. A course syllabus and an instructor. The course syllabus is a comprehensive guide that informs the student about such matters as textbook requirements, mandatory readings, testing deadline dates, assignments, etc. A student will study the textbook, complete assignments, and take exams according to the guidelines established in the course syllabus. Most of the coursework is done independently hence the name Independent Studies. Students are encouraged to consult with the instructor for questions and advice.

Are There any Requirements or Pre-Requisites?

The requirements for eligibility to register for an Independent Studies course are:
  • Admission
  • A passing score on the College Placement Test (CPT)
As you can see, the list of requirements is short. There are of course character strengths that enable students to succeed. Some of these are self discipline, self direction, and motivation.

How can I Register for Independent Studies Courses?

The process for registering is identical to credit lecture classess and can be summarized in two short steps.
  1. Obtain the reference number for the course in question by navigating to the Course Offerings page (navigation bar on the left side of this page).
  2. Register in person at any Miami Dade campus, by telephone using the STAR Service telephone registration system, or online by navigating to http://www.mdc.edu/sis

What do I do after I Register for an Independent Studies Course?

Once registration is complete, you are ready to begin one of the most enriching journeys you have ever undertaken. Navigate to the Independent Studies Download Center (navigation bar on the left side of this page). All courses will require the following materials:
  • Course Syllabus
  • Schedule of the Instructors' Hours
  • Study Guide (optional)
All of these materials may be downloaded from the Independent Studies Download Center and is provided in Microsoft® Word® and Adobe® Acrobat® formats. Browse the list of links using the course id (e.g. ENC 1101) and click on the desired link. Report to your instructor the first week of the term at the location and time indicated on the schedule of instructors' hours. This initial meeting is a brief one so make sure you become familiar with the guidelines in the Course Syllabus.

Where do I take exams?

All exams are administered on the Kendall Campus located at 11011 SW 104 Street. Most of our instructors are available morning, and evening hours, some instructors are available Saturdays. Please refer to the Instructor's Schedule of hours at the Download Center Page.

Will I need a textbook?

Yes. All Independent Studies courses require a textbook.

Who are the instructors?

The instructors that we select to teach courses for the Independent Studies program are bright and motivated individuals that have a unique ability to connect with people. Usually, they are selected from their respective fields in the community. All of our instructors meet the criteria established by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). SACS is an accreditation body that certifies that a school and it's faculty meet the guidelines established by the Department of Education and that its curriculum and academic credentials are accepted nationwide.

Miami Dade College, Kendall Campus
Independent Studies Program Room 3306
11011 SW 104 ST
Miami, FL 33176
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