Jacobs Student Specialization Project
The Specialization (Spec) project consist of 8 credits, spanning over two semesters, and is mandatory for all students in the Jacobs Master’s programs. The Spec project is a chance for students to do a deeper dive into a topic of their choosing, honing specialized skills, implementing novel prototypes, analyzing complex data sets, or pursuing user-centered design studies.
Please note, all students are required to enroll in TECHIE 5901: Intro to Spec (1 cr) during their first semester where they will work towards solidifying their Spec project objectives.
Project requirements can be completed in one of two tracks: Anchor Course & Self-Directed Project, or Faculty-Directed Independent Study. Students may explore both tracks initially before committing to one or the other by mid-November of their first semester. Any changes must be made before the add/drop deadline for Spring.
Tracks
Anchor Course + Self-Directed Project
Students will select an approved 3 credit anchor course to enroll in, and apply their learnings toward their Spec project concept and plan. The approved anchor course should be an approved elective for their program, NOT a required/core course. Alternative anchor courses should also be identified in case the first choice is over enrolled.
Courses:
- Spring 2025 (4 cr)
- INFO 5920: Specialization Project (1 cr)
- Approved 3-credit anchor course
- Fall 2025 (4 cr)
- INFO 5920: Specialization Project (4 cr)
Process & Timeline
FALL YEAR 1
- During pre-enrollment (late October-early November), students MUST:
- Enroll in INFO 5920 for 1 credit.
- Enroll in an approved 3 credit anchor course.
- Anchor Course track form must be submitted by November 18, 2024.
SPRING YEAR 1
- Attend class sessions for approved anchor course & INFO 5920.
- During pre-enrollment (May 1-3), students MUST enroll in INFO 5920: Specialization Project for 4 credits to work on their self-directed project, supervised by the Spec instructors and TA.
FALL YEAR 2
- Attend class sessions for INFO 5920 and work on their self-directed project.
- Students may develop and submit their Spec project concept individually or with partners.
Faculty-Directed Independent Study
Students will apply to work on a faculty-specified and advised Independent Study project during the course of 2 semesters (Spring 2025 and Fall 2025). Students will be responsible for exploring and confirming their own faculty advisors. Each faculty will have different prerequisite skill requirements for participation. At the discretion of the faculty advisor, students may work individually or with partners.
Courses:
- Spring 2025 (4 cr)
- INFO 7900: Independent Study (4 cr)
- Fall 2024 (4 cr)
- INFO 7900: Independent Study (4 cr)
Process & Timeline
FALL YEAR 1
- Students approach faculty in September and October to inquire about opportunities. Not all faculty will have openings, and most will have specific skill requirements to participate.
- If a mutually agreed upon advisor/project is found, students must complete the Independent Study Agreement form by November 11, 2024.
- After completing the Independent Study Agreement form, students will be enrolled in the correct INFO 7900 section by a member of the Student & Academic Affairs team.
SPRING YEAR 1
- Work on their Independent Study project with their faculty advisor.
- For Fall Year two, students must complete the Independent Study Agreement form by April 19, 2025. The form will be routed to the faculty advisor signing off on their approval.
- After completing the Independent Study Agreement form, students will be enrolled in the correct INFO 7900 section by a member of the Student & Academic Affairs team.
FALL YEAR 2
- Work on their Independent Study project with their faculty advisor.