how to make your own major: the basics of IMP

Some students want a degree in fields other than biology, Spanish or statistics.
The Individualized Major Program, an option through the College of Arts and Sciences, permits students to pursue self-designed, interdisciplinary majors.

Paul Aarstad, assistant director of the program, explained more about how to get involved.

How does it work?
Each student is assigned a faculty sponsor to consult with in designing a curriculum that meets the requirements for a Bachelor of Arts degree.

The designed curriculum is then reviewed by a committee of faculty members selected by the program leaders. This committee offers advice and proposes changes to the curriculum if needed and may approve the major. Every student is also required to do a final project.

What is the application process?
Students must present a curriculum plan which includes all proposed courses for his or her specific individualized major and for the B.A. requirements. A semester-by-semester plan of courses the student has not yet taken is also necessary.

There is a written component, as well, called the admissions statement, which identifies the major and explains how this major could not be accomplished through existing major or degree programs. The statement must prove that the major has academic validity and is established in the liberal arts. Aarstad said the statement must also prove the major is a good fit for the student.

Who is eligible to apply?
Any student who has finished the first semester of freshman year and has a 2.5 GPA or higher can apply. Applications are accepted in spring and fall.

How long has the program been in place?
The IMP has been established at IU since 1969.

Why is the program important?
Aarstad said the IMP allows students to put their interests into a major program that might be offered at other schools but not at IU.

“It serves a purpose at the University in terms of retaining students who might otherwise go elsewhere,” he said.

He also said it is important that students have options.

“It is important for students to choose their direction, and if that direction isn’t served by an existing major or program, we’re here to help with that,” Aarstad said. “Students who participate in the design of their own curriculum tend to learn more deeply and are better able to apply their education to contemporary problems.”