Senior Thesis
Students outside of the Honors Program are not
required to write a thesis. However, if you choose to do so,
the proper course sequence for students who are NOT doing Honors in the Major is:
Political Science 691/692,
carried over a minimum of two semesters--2 or 3 credits each, for a total of 4
to 6 thesis credits. (The honors thesis requirements are different. Read about them
here).
More information:
Students who plan for a senior thesis have generally developed both a strong
interest in some aspect of political science which they wish to pursue
and their strong interest has been developed or inspired by a
faculty member in the same area. In this case there is generally little
difficulty in either focusing on a special topic of interest to them, or failing
to develop the kind of independent and sustained effort which a thesis requires.
The first semester, you will enroll in PS 691 and earn a grade of
"P" for Progress. The second semester you will enroll in PS
692, and the earned grade for the entire thesis will then be applied to both
semesters of work. Details and conditions for the thesis are worked out in
consultation with the supervising professor.
It is strongly suggested that you consider the following details before
making a decision to pursue writing a thesis:
- Make sure that you have taken course work which would be relevant to your
thesis. THINK! Have you exhausted the possibilities available through course
work?
- Prepare in writing, a clear and reasonably detailed plan of study; at
minimum, several paragraphs which outline the main point, goals of the project,
and type of work involved.
- Think about who would be an appropriate professor with whom to work. Prepare
a photocopy of your plan, along with an official transcript. Present these to
the professor for consideration. Ask for a response.
NOTE: Identifying a supervising professor for your thesis
will be made easier through this method of circulation. The professor will
perceive a clearer idea of your plan and, if needed, recommend another professor
if s(he) cannot accommodate you at the time. This procedure will lessen your
frustration and prevent running about.