The Honors Thesis is the capstone course of the Honors Program in which students write an independently researched thesis on a self-selected topic from their major discipline. This thesis is reviewed and edited by faculty advisors chosen by the student, culminating in an oral presentation / defense of the work at the end of the semester.
Here is an outline of the process.
-Identify a faculty member in your field that you would like to work with on the thesis and another faculty member to serve as the second reader. After discussing the topic, develop a research question and then survey the literature on the topic. Those of you who are writing fiction or doing an art project will proceed differently.
-Register for the Honors Thesis during the semester that you intend to do this work. You should schedule yourself the same amount of time you would need for an upper level course in your field. If you do not complete the thesis you may be able to receive an Incomplete, but you should try to avoid this. If at any point in the semester you believe that you cannot complete the thesis on time, please communicate this to your thesis advisor and the Honors Director.
-Fill out the form in the office which requires signatures of the thesis advisor, the second reader, and the Director of the Honors Program. (This form can also be found online, on the Course Description Page)
-Meet regularly with your thesis advisor. Because this is an independent study, it is easy to procrastinate, since other classes are structured. The Director has asked all advisors to report your progress during the semester. It is also important that you know the person you select as an advisor has the time to work with you.
-When you complete the thesis you will make an oral presentation to faculty and students. Your grade will be determined by the quality of the written product, its originality, your oral presentation, and the diligence you have shown in doing your work.
This is a project which should be planned in advance and carefully managed over the semester. Do not try to pack this project into an otherwise loaded semester. Last minute, thrown together work is not acceptable.
If we can help you in any way, please come by the office.
Dr. Leslie A. Taylor, Interim Director
Dr. Jefferey H. Taylor, Interim Assoc. Director