The University of Arizona

Undergraduate Info

Optional Research, Independent Study, and Internship Experiences

Computer Science majors are not required to complete research, independent study, or internships.  However, students are encouraged to pursue these opportunities for their own professional and academic development.  The department does not place students into research or employment opportunities, but does keep a list of postings on our Jobs and Announcements page.  Students are encouraged to search other job sites and lists as well.

Academic credit earned for research, independent study, or internship cannot be applied toward Computer Science major requirements.  These units will count solely as general elective credit.

In order to register for a research, independent studies, or internship experience, a student and faculty member must work together to complete an Individual Studies Proposal Form. Please read below for additional information about these individual studies experiences.

Research:

Opportunities exist for undergraduate students to participate in research in the Department of Computer Science.  Students are also free to pursue research opportunities through other departments.  Students who are involved in Computer Science departmental research may be able to receive academic credit as either Directed Research (C SC *92) or Independent Study (C SC *99).  More details about research opportunities and the Application for Undergraduate Research can be found on our Undergraduate Research page.  

Independent Study:

Students who have an idea for an academic project that is not tied to an ongoing research project or course may pursue independent study.  Interested students must make a proposal to a faculty member in order to solicit support for the project.  Students may be able to earn independent study credit (C SC *99) for approved projects.

Internships:

Many internship opportunities are available for Computer Science students.  Most companies do not require that students earn academic credit in order to qualify for intern positions.  Students who are interested in earning credit (C SC *93) for their internship experience must solicit faculty support, according to the Departmental Guidelines for Internships.