The Individualized Major Program admits new students twice a year, in spring and fall. Admission is non-competitive; each application is judged on its own merits. The steps involved in applying for an individualized minor are described below.
Guidelines for applying to our minor
Application steps
What is the deadline for the upcoming semester?
- Fall 2024: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis between August 26-November 7
What is an initial consultation?
This is an informational session when you can ask questions about the program and we can get a sense of your interests. You are welcome to schedule a consultation even if you don't plan to apply right away.
How do I schedule a consultation?
You should schedule an initial consultation with the IMP director and/or assistant director. To schedule an appointment, contact the IMP office and include your schedule availability as well as a brief description of your academic goals.
How do I apply for an individualized minor?
Download the IMP Minor Application Form. Once complete, email it to imp@iu.edu or deliver it in person to the IMP office in Lindley 201D.
What are the questions on the application essay?
- Does the minor resemble others that are regularly offered at IU Bloomington? If so, how is the proposed IMP minor different from others it may resemble?
- What is the principle of coherence unifying the courses for the minor?
- What do you hope to learn from completing this minor?
- How does the minor complement your major? Is there a close thematic connection? Does it address an interest not otherwise reflected in your degree?
What are the regulations for course selection?
The application also includes space to list the courses you propose to include in your minor. Your course selections must adhere to the following regulations:
- A minimum of 15 credit hours
- No more than two courses from any single department
- No more than 6 credit hours from units outside the College of Arts and Sciences
- No more than 3 hours of internship and 3 hours of independent readings credit
- A minimum of 9 credit hours at the 300-400 level
- No more than two courses that are already completed at the time the student applies
- A minimum of 9 credit hours taken in residency on the Bloomington campus
- Only one course from the individualized minor can count toward other degree objectives including majors, other minors, or certificates.
What are helpful resources for selecting courses?
- Advice from faculty members
- College of Arts + Sciences Undergraduate Academic Bulletin
- Bulletins of other IU Bloomington schools
- The websites of various academic departments
How long will the review process take?
The review process may take several weeks. Your application will be reviewed by a committee of three faculty members, and you will be notified of their decision via e-mail.
What are the possible outcomes?
- Admission: The committee may decide to accept your proposed minor as-is.
- Conditional admision: They may admit you, but require you to make some changes to your course selections (such as the addition or removal of a course).
- Denial: The committee may decide not to admit you. If this happens, you are welcome to revise your application and reapply in a future semester.