Major Requirements

CURRENT AND PAST SDM STUDENTS AND MAJORS

A qualified student (3.00 GPA or better) may propose a major curriculum other than one among the current list of majors at Skidmore. The Self-Determined major transcends the boundaries of Skidmore's majors and minors and reflects the integration of more than one discipline toward the attainment of a clearly developed and coherent course of study.

The degree program must contain a core of not fewer than ten courses pertinent to the student's central interest, one of these being an independent-study project that integrates this core of courses, or a senior seminar, or colloquium in which a main project achieves the same goal. A Self-Determined Major must meet the all-college requirements including the maturity-level requirement.

The student proposes a course of study to the SDM Program through the director and its SDM Committee. Normally, students will apply by February 15 during the spring of their sophomore year. A self-determined major proposal must be submitted no later than October 15 of their junior year or its equivalent.

Checklist of Requirements for the Self-Determined Major

_____ A strong academic record and a grade point average of 3.00 or higher.

_____ Completion of all prerequisites necessary to undertake the proposed course of study.

_____ Satisfaction of the all-college requirements for the degree as defined in the Skidmore catalog.

_____ A course of study not already included within or directly related to a major department at Skidmore College and that does not fit within the guidelines for traditional, double, and inter-departmental majors.

_____ A carefully thought out and clearly written statement that defines the academic structure and unity of the self-determined program, including specific references to the ways in which course material and learning experiences (such as internships or study-abroad programs) interact to form a focused, coherent academic major.

_____ An academically appropriate program which is commensurate with the liberal arts and sciences objectives of the College.

_____ A plan of study that can be supported by a sufficient number of Skidmore courses and by Skidmore faculty with appropriate expertise and, when necessary, secondary use of neighboring or affiliated facilities and resources.

_____ A final project that integrates the various components of the student's major.

Self-Determined Major Contact

Mail

Skidmore College
815 N. Broadway
Saratoga Springs NY 12866

email

sdm@skidmore.edu

Director

Catherine White Berheide
Tisch Learning Center 222
518-580-5415

Administrative Assistant

Beth Miller
Palamountain Hall 422
518-580-5202