Independent Study in Idaho

Contact Information

207 Blake House; 208-885-6641; Website: Independent Study in Idaho; indepst@uidaho.edu

Overview

Independent Study in Idaho (ISI) was established in 1973 by the Idaho State Board of Education as a cooperative of four accredited institutions led by the University of Idaho (U of I). Partner institutions include Lewis-Clark State College (LCSC), Idaho State University (ISU), and Boise State University (BSU). The ISI office is located on the University of Idaho’s Moscow campus. All partner institutions are accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

ISI does not award degrees, but credits earned through ISI transfer to most colleges and universities.

About ISI Courses

ISI courses are offered online and sponsored by cooperating institutions. Course lists, policies, and procedures are available on the ISI website, and syllabi can be found on the Keep Learning Idaho website.

Students use ISI courses to:

  • Start college early
  • Graduate on time
  • Resolve scheduling conflicts
  • Meet prerequisites
  • Pursue professional or personal development

Courses are self-paced and not tied to a semester calendar. Students may start at any time, study anywhere, and have up to one year to complete a course. On average students should plan for roughly two or three months to complete an ISI course. ISI courses are best suited for independent learners with limited instructor interaction.

Mission

To expand access to quality education by offering flexible, online courses for learners from diverse backgrounds.

Idaho Teacher Librarian Endorsement (K–12)

The University of Idaho’s library science courses are offered exclusively through ISI. The Idaho Teacher Librarian (K–12) endorsement requires:

  • 21 semester credits
  • A 3-credit practicum
  • A qualifying score on Praxis II (Test 5312)

Coursework includes topics such as information literacy, cataloging, school library management, literature for youth, and educational technologies. After completing all requirements, students must contact:

Undergraduate Programs and Certification
College of Education, University of Idaho
875 Perimeter Drive MS 3084
Moscow, ID 83844-3084

Because library science is not a stand-alone teaching field, candidates must also hold a current Idaho teaching certificate. Teachers outside Idaho should confirm acceptance with their state department of education.

University of Idaho Library Science Teaching Minor

ISI library science courses may also be applied toward a 24-credit teaching minor from the University of Idaho. Contact the U of I College of Education for details.

Education Professionals (K–12)

ISI courses may be used for certification or credential renewal. Approval depends on state requirements.

Course Delivery and Services

Online Delivery

Courses are delivered through the Canvas learning management system. Access is granted after registration and prerequisite verification (if required).

Exams and Proctors

Some courses require proctored exams in paper format. Students are responsible for securing an approved proctor and submitting a Proctor Information Form.

Disability Support

Students should request course accommodation through the course’s sponsoring institution.

Registration and Fees

Registration

Students may register anytime without applying for admission. University of Idaho courses through ISI do not calculate toward overall GPA. Students should confirm credit transfer policies with their home institution. Students are encouraged to meet with an academic advisor before registering for an ISI course.

Fees

Residency is not required. Fees are the same for all students and include course access but not textbooks or other materials.

Course Materials

Required materials are listed on course registration pages on the Keep Learning Idaho website. Students should purchase required course materials from an online seller of their choosing.

Financial and Military Support

Financial Aid

ISI does not offer financial aid. However, some agencies and employers may provide funding. ISI courses do not count toward full-time enrollment for financial aid purposes.

Military Benefits

Contact the U of I Veterans Assistance Office before enrolling.

Policies

Drops and Refunds

Courses dropped within 45 days may qualify for a refund. See Dropping a course and requesting a refund on the ISI website for details.

Course Exchanges

Courses may be exchanged within 45 days of registration.

Extensions

One four-month extension may be purchased for most courses. See Request a course extension on the ISI website for details.

Grades and Transcripts

Transcripts are issued by the credit-granting institution, not ISI. Refer to your course syllabus to identify the institution.