Independent Concentrations can be either a Bachelor of Arts (AB) or a Bachelor of Science (ScB). These two programs have different course requirements: for example, AB concentrations typically require ~11 to 15 courses (sometimes as many as 16 or 17), while ScB concentrations typically require ~12 to 17 courses (sometimes as many as 18 to 20). Bachelor of Science concentrations generally follow the guidelines listed in the Faculty Rules on pages 69–70, and the key difference between a ScB and an AB science-oriented concentration is the depth of engagement with the scientific research method.

You can use a few independent study courses (GISPs, ISPs, DISPs, AIs, research) for your independent concentration, as it makes sense, pending approval from your advisor(s). You can also double-concentrate with an Independent Concentration (IC) and a standard concentration, just as with two standard concentrations, including through the 5-year combined AB/ScB program if applicable.

Look at our IC Database of past proposals to see what has been done before.

Request to view past proposals

Independent Concentration alums have received fellowships such as the Fulbright, Goldwater, and Truman; entered M.D. and Ph.D. programs in their IC field; joined large companies; founded start-ups; served in government positions; and more! Both conventional and innovative career options are readily accessible to Independent Concentration graduates because of the interdisciplinary nature of the Independent Concentration process. In fact, a degree in an Independent Concentration makes you an attractive job candidate. Employers encounter candidates in standard concentrations all the time; degrees like yours are more unusual and demonstrate your creativity, ability to work independently, discipline, and entrepreneurial spirit. Further, after advocating for your own curriculum to Brown, it becomes easy to “sell” your concentration to employers post-grad. Many independent concentrators refer to their Independent Concentration by its title rather than presenting it as an “independent concentration in [x field].”

Family members can sometimes be skeptical of a non-traditional degree. However, we encourage you to discuss with your family the success of Independent Concentration alumni in the working world, the many benefits of the personalized advising network, the close relationship you will have with faculty, and the ownership of your time at Brown in having this discussion. We are also happy to help you plan ways to talk to your family about the Independent Concentration process.

To find Brown IC alums, do a keyword search on LinkedIn or request to join the LinkedIn Brown University IC Community group.

Email student coordinators to schedule an advising meeting, or consult the CRC open hours page to drop in without an appointment.

Student Coordinators | Open Hours

• Ananya Uddanti '28 
• Kyla Zhang '27
• Manan Pancholy '27

DUG Leaders | Current IC-ers

• Ananya Uddanti '28 
• Kyla Zhang '27
• Manan Pancholy '27

IC Dean/Director of Undergraduate Studies

 IC Proposal Form Template 

• The IC Rubric outlines the criteria for evaluating proposals.
• The IC Database lists all past ICs.
  To request copies of past ICs, please fill out our request form: http://go.brown.edu/ic_proposal_request.
• The Faculty Sponsor Info Sheet explains the faculty sponsor role.