The option of Independent Study at Cuesta College provides an opportunity for an in-depth study or practicum experience by an individual student in a selected topic under the direction of an instructor. In order to qualify, a student must not be on academic probation, must be enrolled in another class in addition to the independent study course, and must have completed the prerequisite and preparatory course work.

A student may not earn more than two credits for an independent study course in any term. To initiate independent study, a student completes the Independent Study Course Approval Form and has Step 1-Records Check cleared by a Registration Center to confirm eligibility to enroll in an independent study course.  The student then contacts the appropriate academic division.