Self Design, BA

Self-Design Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts (30-48 credits)

The purpose of providing the opportunity for a Self-Designed major is to enable students to pursue an individualized program of studies significantly different from one of the established majors available at Pitt-Greensburg. Students considering this alternative should schedule an appointment with an Academic Advisor.

1. A Self-Designed major must differ significantly from an existing Pitt-Greensburg major, must be multidisciplinary (i.e., include courses from more than one department), and must maintain the same high standard of academic quality as other Pitt-Greensburg majors (e.g., a student will be expected to earn a C- grade in all courses in the major and the student will be expected to complete a suitable capstone course as part of the major).
2. A Self-Designed major must have one or more faculty sponsors who assist the student in developing the plan of studies. The faculty member(s) must agree to serve on a continuing basis in monitoring the student’s progress and approving any changes in the major. Faculty sponsorship is terminated when the student changes to another major or completes requirements for graduation.
3. Students interested in the Self-Designed major must submit a written proposal outlining the purpose(s), rationale, and courses by the end of Sophomore year to Vice President of Academic Affairs. The proposal should contain the following elements:
   1. Title Page
      1. Title of proposed major and degree sought (e.g., BA, BS).
      2. Name, address, cell, and home telephone numbers.
      3. Name, department(s), and telephone number(s) of faculty sponsor(s).
      4. Signature of approval of the proposal by faculty member(s) and the corresponding division chair.
   2. Content of Proposal
      1. A clear statement of the purpose and rationale for the major must be made. Include the scope of the program of studies and relevance of the courses proposed.
      2. List the courses on a separate page with course numbers, titles, and number of credits.
      3. A minimum of 30 credits is required.
4. The Vice President for Academic Affairs grants final approval of the major through a letter to the faculty sponsor(s) and student. Any further changes in the major must also have approval from the Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Note: The Self-Designed Major can be used to obtain a degree in Pre-Occupational or Pre-Physical Therapy. Sample course outlines are available on the Pitt Greensburg website or in the Academic Advising office.