Admission Process

(Click here if you're interested in an individualized major rather than a minor.)

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.

Deadlines

The application deadlines for upcoming semesters are as follows.

  • Fall 2022: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis between August 22 and November 10.
  • Spring 2023: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis between January 09 and April 06.

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Initial Consultation

After reviewing the information available on this website, prospective IMP students should schedule an initial consultation with the IMP director and/or assistant director. This is an informational session when you can ask questions about the program and we can get a better sense of your interests. To schedule an appointment, contact the IMP office. Please include your schedule availability and a brief description of your academic goals. You're welcome to schedule a consultation even if you don't plan to apply right away.

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Submit an Application

To apply for an individualized minor, please download the application form below and email it to imp@indiana.edu or deliver it in person to the IMP office in Lindley 201D.:

The application includes an essay in which you will be asked to answer the following questions:

  • 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?

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.

The following resources may be helpful as you select courses:

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Possible Outcomes

Your application will be reviewed by a committee of three faculty members, and you will be notified of their decision via e-mail. The review process may take several weeks. There are three possible outcomes:

  • The committee may decide to accept your proposed minor as-is.
  • They may admit you, but require you to make some changes to your course selections (such as the addition or removal of a course).
  • The committee may decide not to admit you. If this happens, you are welcome to revise your application and reapply in a future semester.
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