<p>I want to sign up for a research class. I have my proposed research project already but I'm interested in how some of you have "planned out" your semester. How many credits was your class?
How often did you meet with your advisor?</p>
<p>This is going to vary widely by school.</p>
<p>Are you talking about an independent study course, or an actual class with many students in it?</p>
<p>My school only offered independent study courses, which multiple people could take together if they were working on the same project, otherwise, they were on their own. The credits were the same as any other course (4 credits was typical per course at my college). How often you met with the advisor was up to you and your advisor. Some profs like to meet every week to make sure you are keeping up with everything. Others don’t care if they ever see you before the end of the semester, unless you ask for an appointment. Most fall somewhere in between. Usually you would plan out your semester in advance before classes start, such as at the end of the previous semester, or at the very beginning of the semester you’re taking the course. </p>
<p>Of course, if you are talking about a large number of students who are taking a semi-structured course where you meet each week, all of the above is irrelevant…</p>
<p>Consider this very carefully. While it is a good idea and i spent about 3 years of my undergrad in working in a research lab you should consider the time requirements carefully. If the research you are doing is actual paper grade research you should expect to take anywhere from 15-30 hours a week doing the research itself (really depends on your skill level to be frank and on what major it is). If this is unpaid you should also take that into consideration.</p>
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<p>If you do decide to do it, meet with your professor every week. Even though that requirement varies based on who your working with but in all cases you should meet with the person at least once a week if possible. The reason for this is to ensure that the end product matches the prof’s expectations (which if your making good progress will be higher then you think). [yes i know the person im quoting is not the OP but good advice none the less]</p>