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The University Honors thesis project involves substantive, in-depth study/creative activity under close supervision of a faculty mentor. There is no specific required format or length for your honors project, however, likely options are a formal research paper (e.g. a thesis) or a creative activity/production (e.g., a work/works of fine or performing art; a media production; literary, musical or dramatic composition/s). You will negotiate the specific format and expectations of this project with the faculty advisor/mentor you select to work with you. However, one common feature of all honors projects is that they must involve some form of public presentation appropriate to your discipline (e.g., to peers in your discipline or the honors program, to a class, at a conference, as a recital or opening).
As the first step to beginning your honors project, you must submit a proposal to the Honors Program Director by the end of your junior year that has been signed and approved by your faculty advisor/mentor. The proposal should be approximately 750-1250 words (3-5 double spaced pages) and should cover the following areas:
- Project Title - List a preliminary title for your project (this may be tentative at the proposal stage and can be refined when you finish the project).
- Project Overview and Goals - Provide a brief description of the project you are proposing, the research questions you are exploring (if appropriate), and the desired outcomes of your work. This overview should be written in clear language accessible to readers outside of your discipline.
- Methods and Time Line - Explain the methods/techniques you will use in completing this project, as well as the specific steps and anticipated time line for your efforts.
- Resources/Literature - Describe the literature you will consult in completing this project or the resources you will be drawing upon as inspiration for your work.
- Description of Final Project - Explain the format of your final project, how you will present it and to whom. (e.g. conference, departmental colloquium, exhibit, performance, etc.)
- Significance and Contribution - Describe the significance of your project and the contribution it will make to your field.
- Difference between your Project and the Capstone Project in your Discipline - If your major requires a final, senior or capstone project, explain how your proposed honors project differs from this already required experience.
- Venue and date of public presentation.
- Signature of Student and Faculty Advisor/Mentor - Your honors project proposal is like a contract between you and your faculty advisor/mentor. The last page of the proposal should be signed and dated by both you and your advisor/mentor and then submitted for approval to the Honors Program Director by the end of your junior year.
Collaborative projects of an interdisciplinary nature are strongly encouraged. Students who wish to pursue such a project should submit individual proposals.
Proposals should be submitted to:
Lori Merrill-Fink, Director
University Honors Program
Faner Hall, Room 3341
Mailcode 4520
453-2824
Theses must be submitted to the Director by no later than Wednesday of Final Exam week. Students are asked to submit an electronic version (Word or PDF file on a CD).
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