Toward the end of fall semester, the faculty sponsor and the student outline the project to be pursued during Interterm. One purpose of this project is to allow students to devise, structure, and carry to completion an intensive study on their own. Faculty remain in residence during Interterm to assist in carrying out projects and also for consultation on future activities. Interterm is one month long. Projects are submitted for evaluation at the end of the month.
Students complete three independent study projects before graduation.
Research education is an important component of the New College education. From beginning classes, students are taught to use to tools of a scholar. Computer literacy and understanding of library resources are crucial. Critical thinking skills are emphasized from introductory work through advanced study. Skills in the field and the laboratory are strengthened throughout a student's tenure.