#  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.



 

 

 



 

 See also:- [ Concentration Requirements ](/faq-types/concentration)