All Honors students must complete a capstone experience before graduation. The Senior Thesis is one option that fulfills this requirement. It also fulfills Honors Scholarship, a necessary tier for Honors Distinction. Under the guidance of faculty mentors, students will research, write, edit, and revise their thesis over the course of two quarters. The experience culminates in a presentation of the final paper and its findings at the annual Honors Research Conference. The Senior Thesis is open to all Honors students in their final year at DePaul, but it is especially recommended for anyone considering graduate school, seeking an independent and self-directed academic experience, or wishing to explore a personal research interest. Projects may take many forms, including creative works, research connected to one’s major, or explorations of ideas developed through Honors and other coursework.
Step 1: Submit Your Thesis Proposal
Before you can begin, your thesis proposal must be accepted by the DePaul University Honors Program.
Step 2: Download the Thesis Materials Packet
The Honors Senior Thesis Materials packet contains an explanation of the format, guidelines, ideas, and timeline for the Thesis.
Step 3: Follow the Thesis Timeline
The creation of a Senior Thesis spans across two consecutive quarters. Each quarter is dedicated to different steps to help ensure you stay on track to complete your project.
Quarter 1: Preparation
- Identify your topic and thesis type
- Locate a thesis director and faculty reader
- Establish a timeline and schedule for your thesis’ specific needs
- Begin preliminary research by locating and evaluating potential sources
- Create your Thesis Proposal
- Submit your Thesis Proposal
Quarter 2: Completion
- Meet regularly with your thesis director
- Research, read, draft, write, and create your thesis
- Submit a draft to your faculty reader for suggested revisions
- Revise based on feedback
- Submit your final thesis to your director, faculty reader, and the Honors Program
Step 4: Present at the Honors Research Conference
Consider Checking Out…
Honors Research Conference Archive
Recommend a Professor to Teach for the Honors Program
If you have any questions or concerns, or if you just want to discuss your thesis, email the Honors Program at honorsprogram@epaul.edu.