Independent Concentrations FAQ
What do employers think of independent concentrations?
Many students find their independent concentration an asset when applying for internships and jobs. First, people ask about it, so it gives students a chance to talk about something they're passionate about. It also means you’ve thought through your education very carefully. Some students even use their proposal as a writing sample for internships.
How hard is it to get an independent concentration?
The process isn’t easy; the committee studies each proposal very carefully. Students who make a rational argument for a field of study that really can’t be completed in an existing department have the best chance of success. Whether or not a proposal is accepted, the process of proposing a concentration is very rewarding; this may sound clichéd, but it really forces you to consider your idea thoroughly.
Can I double concentrate in an IC and something else?
The committee usually doesn’t recommend it, since you can’t use any IC courses to apply to another concentration. So with your 10+ IC courses and the requirements for another concentration, you’ll have very little space for electives and chances to explore various departments while at Brown.
How do I begin designing an independent concentration?
Brainstorm, brainstorm, brainstorm! Bounce ideas off people; their questions will make you think about what principles and concepts unite your interests and ideas. Visit the Curricular Resource Center, which is a good place to hash out your ideas with a ready and willing listener. Consider the classes you have already taken at Brown, as well as those you want to take in the future. This can help generate an initial theme or possible themes. Once you have a few ideas, look at the descriptions and organizations of existing concentration programs. What is the rationale for requireing particular classes in the concentration? What do they stipulate about electives? What do they recommend for a thesis/senior project/capstone? You may at times feel as though you're hitting your head against a wall to get your ideas to become clear, but just keep on doing the footwork.
How long does it take?
Developing a coherent idea and rationale for an independent concentration can take a while. Some students have an idea for an IC in their first year at Brown, while others have no interest in an IC until the end of their sophomore year.
Does it feel lonely to not have a department?
Sometimes yes but usually no. Advising an IC is no small time commitment, so IC students feel supported by their faculty sponsors. Some students may miss the active involvement of other students in their concentration, but Brown is full of creative, intellectually engaged people; at least a few students would be happy to chat about the philosophy of your topic; your job is to find them!
I’m a 2nd semester sophomore and I’m proposing an IC. How do I register for next semester without declaring a concentration?
You must declare a concentration in your fourth semester in order to be able to register for your junior year fall semester. So you need to declare a “back-up concentration.” But don’t choose just any concentration; pick the one that you’d be happiest completing if your IC isn’t approved. Remember that you don’t have an IC until the committee gives you full approval; be prepared for the day when you might have to accept that back-up concentration as your actual concentration.