Independent Scholars Program

Scott Paulson, Academic Unit Head
Matthew Chamberlin, Director
Phil Frana, Professor
Phone: (540) 568-5218
Email: chambema@jmu.edu
Location: Gabbin Hall, Room 207

Mission 

The mission of the Independent Scholars (IS) major is to provide students with a learning environment in which to develop and pursue self-designed curricular pathways and research goals, identifying unique domains of inquiry and interweaving multiple modes of thinking. Students are empowered to cultivate their own academic and professional interests in ways that foster the ability to comprehend and contribute uniquely and innovatively to a wide array of topics, questions and problems.

Objectives

IS majors will: 

• develop topic-based interests and inquiry strategies to pursue those interests. 
• enhance creativity, self-directedness and perseverance required for inquiry.
• learn research, technical and communication skills relevant to inquiry. 
• enhance aptitude and confidence in working independently and collectively. 
• apply knowledge and skills in experiential-learning settings.