The Admission Process

To apply, first make an appointment with the SDM advisor in the Dean's Office of the College of Arts and Sciences. The advisor will explain the program and help with the application process. Before this meeting, prepare a brief, preliminary description of the focus of the major and an explanation of why it cannot be attained through existing systems (such as double majors or a major/minor combination). If you have not selected a faculty member to be your primary advisor, the SDM advisor can suggest faculty with expertise in the areas in which you wish to study.

Next, meet with your primary faculty advisor, who will help you prepare the application. In addition to completing the application form, you will prepare a one- or two-page rationale for the particular focus and a list of at least 24 hours of formal course work (including a minimum of 12 hours of upper division courses)  through which you will explore that focus. The main faculty adviser writes a letter of support for the proposal which is submitted with it.

In consultation with your primary faculty advisor, select two additional faculty members with expertise in your areas of interest. The three faculty members will serve as your advisory committee for the SDM, and all three must sign the application form.

Return your completed form, rationale, and projected course of study to the SDM advisor in the A&S Dean's Office. The Faculty Council, which reviews applications, will review your application, meet with you, and approve or deny admission or suggest revisions. The Council will be especially concerned with your proposed major's coherence and with your ability to do independent work. Evidence of strong motivation and effective self-direction will be an important consideration.  If the Council approves your proposal, you are then admitted to the Self-designed Major, and the courses listed in your proposal are entered into On-Course as those required for your major, along with successful completion of the senior project.