While the Thesis Committees have the responsibility of judging whether the student’s work meets the standards and expectations of the particular major or majors, the Honors Program also exercises oversight over the thesis project, in particular through a series of required forms:
- Prospectus: A full statement of the topic for the thesis, with an attached 3-5 page discussion of what scholars are saying, the scope and/or methods, and the importance of the project. It should have first and second reader signatures for approval.
- Due Monday, September 11, 2017:
- First Chapter and Progress Report: A draft of a chapter or equivalent portion of the thesis (10-15 pages). It should have first, second, and third reader signatures for approval.
- Due Monday, November 13, 2017
- Second progress report: At this point, one third of the thesis should be submitted to their readers, and this form should be completed by to signify their approval of the work in progress. It should have first, second, and third reader signatures for approval and the honors program only needs the form itself.
- Due Monday, January 22, 2018
- Oral Examination Form: A signed document recognizing completion of the Oral Defense.
- To be Completed at End of Defense. Final day for Oral Exam: Monday, April 16, 2018
- Honors Thesis
- Must be submitted by Monday, April 30, 2018
Beyond this schedule, it is the responsibility of the student to keep in touch with readers and present them with work-in-progress in a timely fashion. Students are strongly urged to arrange with their thesis advisor a regular schedule of meetings, submission of work-in-progress, and the expected date for the submission of the near final copy of the thesis. This helps ensure the continued progress of the research and prevents misunderstandings about the scope and direction of the study. It is recommended that students discuss with all readers the criteria that will be used to evaluate interim papers and the completed thesis.