Class you want not listed? Take it independently!
You can enroll in practically any Cornell class listed in the University Catalog if you can find a professor willing to supervise the coursework through independent study.
This may be an actual independent study class, research, or it may be any other course that a faculty member is willing to offer on a tutorial basis.
Once you have identified a professor willing to supervise your study, please follow the steps outlined below. This must be done at least two weeks prior to beginning the independent study class.
In addition, a group of students (at least five) wishing to enroll in a specific class not scheduled for when you want to take it may email the School of Continuing Education’s registrar (cusce@cornell.edu) requesting that the class be added to the roster. The SCE registrar’s office will then try to arrange for that course to be offered.
Registration and enrollment
The process below is for summer and winter independent study only. For fall or spring independent study, please work directly with your college.
- Find a professor willing to supervise your Summer or Winter Session coursework.
- Complete the application for independent study (NetID required).
- The SCE Registrar will create the class and enroll you in it. You’ll receive email confirmation when your enrollment is complete.
- Pay your tuition charge in full at the time of registration. Tuition is charged per credit.
See tuition and how to pay.
You’re responsible for the tuition associated with all classes in which you’re enrolled, whether or not you participate in those classes.
If you no longer wish to take a class, follow the steps on the Course Changes page to drop it immediately. If you drop after the refund period has passed (see Dates and Deadlines), you’ll be responsible for the total cost of your tuition.