This handout is designed for students at Howard Community College who wish to earn upper-level credit in psychology through independent study or self-directed learning (SDL). Section I explains the differences between independent study, which involves the student meeting the instructor's course objectives through independent writing and research and weekly meetings with the instructor rather than by attending class or participating in group activities; and SDL, which involves the student devising his/her own course objectives and assignments under the guidance of the instructor. Section II offers quotes from previous independent study and SDL students, indicating what the students learned from working on their own. This section also recommends various learning activities to achieve different objectives; offers examples of SDL approaches; lists options for reading plans, interviews, community work, and other projects; and warns of potential problems. Section III enumerates course requirements for both independent study and SDL. (MDB)