Independent Study
All students have unique learning needs. There are times when Seton students would like to take a course outside of Seton, yet still have Seton oversight and recognition on their Seton transcript. For instances such as these, Seton’s Independent Study program may be right for you.
An independent study is a course of study at the high school level that is not available at Seton. An independent study course is typically taken with a tutor, parent, or co-op but it may also be a course taken from another accredited high school or college. The latter is known as DUAL ENROLLMENT, and still requires independent study approval. Students are required to take Seton’s English, Theology, Biology, and History courses. An approved independent study course can earn one-half or one full high school credit, and is available to fully enrolled (taking 4 credits or more) students ONLY.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does it work?
Students or parents propose a course to be taken, outlining the curriculum and subject matter to be studied. Students are required to take Seton’s English, Theology, Biology, and History courses. If Seton approves the course, the student is emailed quarter report forms for the parent or teacher to use to assign a grade. The forms are then completed and sent back to Seton with samples or evidence of student work to verify course completion. The course name, final grade, and credit DO appear on a Scholastic Addendum that is attached to the official Seton transcript. This addendum lists all of the approved high school level independent study courses while enrolled with Seton. Because Seton does not grade the work, independent study grades are not a part of the Seton GPA.
Can any course or activity be taken as an Independent Study?
No. Not all courses or activities will qualify. Students are required to take Seton’s English, Theology, Biology, and History courses. However, many math, science, and foreign language courses do qualify. Courses must have a minimum of 140 hours of instruction for a full credit or 70 hours of instruction for a half-credit.
What courses do you recommend be taken as independent study?
Seton usually recommends academic subjects, such as math, science, or foreign language to be taken as an independent study. Fine arts or sports can be done as an independent study, but Seton does not recommend this unless the student plans on pursuing these activities at the college or professional level.
How do I sign up?
Should I do independent study if I am taking the course at another accredited school or college, also known as, DUAL ENROLLMENT?
Yes, ALL outside courses need to go through the independent study request and approval process.
Are Independent Study courses part of the Seton GPA?
No. Because Seton does not grade the work, independent study grades are not a part of the Seton GPA. The course name, final grade, and credit DO appear on a Scholastic Addendum that is attached to the official Seton transcript. This addendum lists all of the approved high school level independent study courses while enrolled with Seton.
