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Undergraduate Research

Students are encouraged to undertake independent research, such as an Honors Thesis, independent research under the supervision of a faculty member, or service learning projects.

Why write an undergraduate thesis?

  • follow a passion and become an “expert” in a specific  topic
  • build your credentials and  create a favorable impression on future employers and graduate schools
  • strengthen writing and research skills and foster relationships with faculty members
  • expose yourself to the research process and enhance your abilities as a consumer of research
  • earn departmental honors, an additional distinction on your diploma

The two-semester course sequence (6001/6002) counts toward your 10-honors course requirement.  Many majors allow the thesis to count as a major elective.  See the undergraduate Bulletin for your discipline/department for more information.  An interdisciplinary thesis option (IDC) is also available.

Resources for writing an honors thesis:

  • Thesis Guidelines, including how to write your proposal/prospectus and prospectus form.

    • Spring start:  Thesis writers who wish to begin their projects in the spring semester must submit their proposals to their advisors and the committee by November 1 of the semester prior to enrolling in 6001H and officially beginning their project. Suggested changes may be made by the mentor and/or the committee and these must be completed and the proposal re-submitted to the Undergraduate Honors Committee, NO LATER than December 1.
    • Fall start: Thesis writers who wish to begin their projects in the fall semester, must submit their proposals to their advisors and the committee by April 1 of the semester before they enroll in 6001H and officially begin their project. Suggested changes may be made by the mentor and/or the committee and these must be completed, and the proposal re-submitted to the committee, NO LATER than May 1st. 
  • Research librarian/Honors liaison, Stephen Francoeur can assist with research and finding examples of prior theses; the library thesis guide offers guidance from start to finish.
  • the Writing Center facilitates a writing workshop for thesis writers
  • Ebook: How to Write a BA Thesis: A Practical Guide from your First ideas to your Finished Paper available from the Newman library

Independent Study

  • Weissman: Independent Study Proposal
  • Zicklin and SPA Independent Study opportunities: Contact the department directly to learn more about the process.

Research Assistantships

Getting published