How can I arrange an independent study within Social Studies?

There are two sorts of independently arranged courses for credit at Harvard: an independent study course, graded Pass/Fail; and a reading and research course, known as a 91r, which is letter-graded. Independent study, graded Pass/Fail, must be supervised by a voting member of the faculty (i.e., someone with an appointment of assistant professor or higher). If you wish to take an independent study with a teaching fellow or lecturer, the Chair of the Department must co-sign your petition. Pass/Fail independent studies, however, do not count towards Social Studies requirements.

A 91r can be arranged through many departments and, on occasion, through Social Studies.  If you are interested in pursuing a reading and research course on a topic not covered by any other course at Harvard, you need to find a faculty member willing to teach the course.  Please note that Social Studies cannot compensate faculty members or lecturers for directing a 91r.  However, we will count Social Studies 91r in a social science or history department for concentration credit, and sometimes for focus field credit.  If you have any questions about Social Studies 91r, please contact the Director of Studies.