Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking & prying with a purpose.
-Zora Neal Hurston
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.
The Honors Senior Thesis is a two-quarter-long independent research project that culminates in the presentation of the final project at the annual Honors Research Conference, which takes place every year in May.
Read on to explore the benefits of completing a Senior Thesis, explore the thesis timeline and important deadlines, and access essential resources such as the thesis archives.
All essential thesis proposal forms can be found on the Thesis Timeline & Essential Forms page.
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.
Thesis Timeline & Essential Forms
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.
Explore More
Honors Research Conference Archive
For individual questions about the Honors Senior Thesis, email Dr. Keith Mikos at kmikos@depaul.edu.