The Honors Senior Thesis gives students the opportunity to pursue a topic they are passionate about through an original research or creative project completed under the guidance of a full-time faculty mentor.
Students who wish to complete an Honors Thesis must first submit an “Intention to Propose” form and a thesis proposal. The proposal must be completed and approved during the quarter preceding the quarter in which the thesis will be completed.
Once approved, students will be enrolled in HON 395, a four-credit independent study that fulfills the Honors Senior Requirement. A grade of C- or higher is required to successfully complete the Honors Thesis.
Why Complete an Honors Thesis?
Completing an Honors Thesis signals your academic competence, initiative, and ambition. Honors alumni have published their thesis work in peer-reviewed journals, used it to strengthen graduate school and job applications, and earned academic and career scholarships.
Many students report that completing a thesis marks the transition from simply taking classes to thinking and working like a professional.
Deep Intellectual Independence
A thesis allows you to pursue a project of your own design. You choose the topic, shape the argument or creative direction, and draw original conclusions. You will become an expert on your thesis topic.
Close Mentorship with a Faculty Advisor
You will work one-on-one with DePaul faculty who will guide your research over several months, offering firsthand experience in the production of scholarly and creative work.
Advanced Research and Writing Skills
You will gain practice in skills that go beyond a typical class. You will make decisions and produce work normally reserved for graduate-level study.
Preparation for Graduate or Professional School
A thesis demonstrates that you can work independently, sustain complex thinking, synthesize concepts, and produce original work—all things admissions committees value highly.
Conference Experience
Your presentation at the Honors Student Research Conference will give you the opportunity to network while presenting your ideas in a formal setting.
Honors Senior Thesis Timeline
Completing an Honors Senior Thesis is a two-quarter-long commitment. Learn what will be required of you in each quarter.
Thesis Topics & Types of Project
The Honors Program accepts three different types of thesis projects. Explore each type and decide on a thesis topic.
Thesis Archive
Explore the digital archive of past Honors Senior Theses.
The Honors Conference
All thesis students are required to present their Honors Thesis at the Honors Student Research Conference.
FACULTY ROLES
Explore the digital archive of past Honors Senior Theses.
Step 1: Download and read the Thesis Materials Packet
The Honors Senior Thesis Materials packet contains an explanation of the format, guidelines, ideas, and timeline for the Thesis. Please read the entire packet before you submit your proposal to ensure that you will be able to successfully produce an Honors Senior Thesis.
Step 2: Submit your Thesis Proposal
Before you can begin, your thesis proposal must be accepted by the DePaul University Honors Program.
Deadline to Submit a Thesis Proposal:
June 1 – for a thesis to be completed by the end of Autumn Quarter
November 4 – for a thesis to be completed by the end of Winter Quarter
To request an extension for a proposal, contact Dr. Keith Mikos (kmikos@depaul.edu). Extensions may be granted in light of extenuating circumstances.
Step 3: Follow the Thesis Timeline outlined below
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
The 2026 annual Honors Research Conference will take place on Friday, May 29 from 3:00-6:00pm. RSVP information to come. Learn more about the conference here.
Explore More
Honors Research Conference Archive
If you have any questions or concerns, or if you just want to discuss your thesis, email the Honors Program at honorsprogram@epaul.edu.