Independent concentrations represent a distinctly personal and individualized approach to undergraduate education. An independent concentrator creates his or her own program of study, organizing a body of courses from several departments around a central theme, topic, or set of related inquiries. The approach and coursework draw on different existing departments, but the concentration must articulate a coherent field of study, with a disciplinary focus and cohesive connection between its various components. This program encourages students to strengthen their skills in a subject or area of knowledge that is academically rigorous and intellectually rewarding.
The independent concentration must explore some question or field of study that cannot be explored in a similar way in one of the standard concentrations available at Brown. Like all concentration programs at Brown, independent concentrations must articulate how the concentration is part of the Liberal Arts program at Brown, and must, therefore, accord with Brown's Mission Statement. Concentrations that focus on vocational, technical, or business training of the kind not offered at Brown will not be accepted. To propose an Independent Concentration, contact the director of the Independent Concentration Program in the Office of the Dean of the College(401) 863-9800.
Page last updated in February, 2009.