Bachelor of Individualized Studies (B.I.S.)
This degree is designed for those students whose goals and learning objectives require more flexibility than is provided by the more conventional structured programs. In consultation with a faculty advisor the student plans an academic program, which must be submitted to the Committee on Individualized Studies for approval. Note: This degree may not satisfy requirements for admission to some graduate programs or for professional employment.
Program Requirements
General Education Requirements (30-42 hours)
See General Education Requirements.
Area Studies (18 hours)
In addition to University Program Requirements, 18 hours of area requirements must be met as follows:
- 6 hours in Humanities
- 6 hours in Natural Sciences
- 6 hours in Social Sciences.
Specialized Studies
Major in Individualized Studies
Minimum Total for Graduation: 120 hours
- To graduate from CMU you must complete a minimum of 120 hours, at least 40 of which must be in courses numbered 300 or above. Please note: the combination of some majors and minors may require more than 120 hours for graduation.
- Not all major/minor combinations are allowed. Please consult with a university advisor to confirm your choice.
- No more than a total of 27 hours may be taken from the College of Business Administration and counted towards graduation.
- You should read the Requirements for Graduation in this Bulletin for a complete description.
Special procedures for earning this degree:
The B.I.S. student selects a faculty advisor who assists in planning an academic program that is submitted to the Committee on Individualized Studies for preliminary approval at least 45 semester hours before graduation. The program plan must include the goals and objectives of the course of study and methods of attaining them, including such things as senior papers and written and oral examinations.
A final plan, including a complete list of courses, must be approved by the Committee on Individualized Studies 30 semester hours prior to graduation.
Students are required to earn at least 30 of the final 45 semester hours of credit on the CMU campus.
Further information concerning the Individualized Studies Program, including the forms for applying for preliminary and final approval for the degree program, are available from the Office of Academic Effectiveness, Warriner 312 or call 989-774-3631 to arrange an appointment for guidance.