Senior Thesis

Writing a senior thesis allows students to explore a unique topic, utilizing critical thinking and advanced research skills. This yearlong project serves as the culminating point of a students’s academic career, allowing them to draw from and combine their interest in political science and other areas to contribute original insights to their field of study. The final project enhances scholarly pursuits and provides a tangible project to enhance job interviews or graduate school applications.

Students with a 3.55 cumulative grade point average are encouraged to consider writing a senior thesis.

Getting started

• Begin planning your thesis during your junior year. Think about your area of interest and start developing your research question.

• Take methodology courses such as Visualizing Politics, Qualitative Political Analysis, or Quantitative Political Analysis before your senior year to understand the research process and plan your work.

• Talk to Director of Undergraduate Studies Angela McCarthy about possible advisors and research topics.

Thesis process

1. Attend a thesis information meeting, offered each semester.

2. Fill out the thesis application Google form, emailed out the spring semester of junior year.

3. Upon approval, register for thesis hours POLS 58901/58902.

If you plan to conduct research during the summer before or during your senior year, apply for a Strake Grant. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Contact Angela McCarthy for further information.

Thesis due dates

The due date for entry in the thesis prize competition is April 1. The final due date is April 12.