Experience conducting your own research at the undergraduate level while working with the guidance of a faculty mentor. Open up the possibilities of publishing and presenting your research; gain a leg up on graduate school applications.
A senior thesis is typically done over two semesters during your junior or senior year, resulting in a polished research paper. Students can either develop and conduct their own research project or do independent research on a faculty member’s project.
Eligibility
To begin a Senior Thesis you must have:
- Completed SOC 3111 (Research Methods) and SOC 3112 (Social Statistics)
- Received approval for your Senior Thesis project from a faculty member who will supervise and guide your research and writing
You can start your Senior Thesis in Spring, Summer or Fall semester.
Requirements
- Enroll in one semester of SOC 3877 Senior Thesis Research 1
- Enroll in SOC 4877 Senior Thesis Research 2 during the second semester of your thesis research (not required, but strongly recommended)
NOTE: Some faculty mentors will only agree supervise a thesis if you commit to enrolling for two semesters. A polished written paper needs to be submitted for approval by your faculty mentor.
Opportunities for thesis writers
- Undergraduate Research Scholars Designation (URSD)
- Funding from the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP)
See information below for details on both opportunities.
Application
After identifying a faculty mentor, please complete the application form with a brief description of your research project.
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM (UROP)
The UROP assistantship pays students up to $1200 for one semester to conduct a research project.
To learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply, click the button below.
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH SCHOLAR DESIGNATION (URSD)
This prestigious designation will appear as an award on your official transcript upon graduation.