Degree Requirements

Sample Programs

Are you a self-directed learner who's interested in completing a baccalaureate degree in an innovative and creative way? Then the Program for Individualized Learning (PIL) may be just what you're looking for.

What's so special about PIL?
PIL allows you to create an individualized degree in areas not available in other colleges of the University. Prospective students must have completed a minimum of 30 semester credits (or the equivalent from an accredited college or university).

As a PIL student, you will:

  • learn to think and write critically and reflectively.
  • build competence in goal setting, problem solving, and organizing through guided independent projects.
  • link theory and practice by integrating, analyzing, and synthesizing learning.
  • develop the skills needed for graduate and professional education.
  • acquire the habits that foster lifelong learning.

Is PIL right for you?
Do you want to:

  • design a degree with a specialized or interdisciplinary area of study?
  • take responsibility for your own learning?
  • develop independent projects as part of degree work?
  • incorporate college-level knowledge and skill gained through learning outside of the classroom?

If the answer is yes, then PIL may be the degree for you.

What are the PIL registration requirements?
Every PIL degree is as unique as the student who designs it. There are, however, some requirements that all students must meet:

  • Degree-planning seminar (PIL 3211, 5 credits). During your first semester, you'll map out a plan for the courses and projects that will fulfill the requirements for the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree.
  • Individualized study (PIL 3251, 5 credits). You'll create individualized study projects to demonstrate college-level knowledge and skills gained outside the classroom. You must include a minimum of two projects in your degree plan.
  • Major project (PIL 3281, 5 credits). This capstone project is the culmination of your main areas of study. You and your area specialist will determine the form of the project. Your written documentation will analyze how the project fits within the context of your degree focus.
  • Graduation preparation (PIL 3291, 5 credits). You'll develop a graduation dossier that documents your undergraduate experience at the University of Minnesota.
  • Graduation review (PIL 4299, 5 credits). You'll meet with your graduation review committee to acknowledge and celebrate your degree completion.