1) When is my thesis due?

The thesis is due on the last day of the fall exam period term. Submit your thesis to your advisor. This should be the penultimate (last but one) draft of your thesis. The only things that should remain to be done to this version are minor tweaking of the text and correct formatting of the thesis for printing, e.g., correct formats for footnotes and endnotes, bibliography, margins, proofreading, etc.

2) How long is a thesis and in what format?

We expect that the thesis will fall between 40 and 80 pages (10,000-20,000 words) and be in the format of a standard research essay or journal article in Science and Technology Studies.

2) To whom do I submit the thesis?

To your thesis advisor. Please discuss in advance with your thesis advice what format they would like to receive the thesis in.

3) Who grades my thesis?

Your primary thesis advisor. If you are working with two advisors, or if there are other advisors involved in the thesis process, they may be asked to read the thesis as well and consult with the primary advisor on the grade.

4) When is the final printed version of the thesis due?

This is due by February 1st (submit to the Associate Director as well as to your thesis advisor). Polish the final draft with correct formatting of notes, bibliography, margins, title pages, pagination, etc., proofread it, and have several copies inexpensively printed and bound. One hardcopy goes to the department; you may give one copy to your advisor; you might want a few copies for yourself and to show to a future employer/admissions officer, etc.

5) How does the senior thesis independent study course (STSC 498), which must be taken in the fall while completing the thesis, count in the major?

STSC 498 can be used as a departmental elective or submajor course.

6) What and when is Senior Symposium?

Senior Symposium for thesis writers in the History and Sociology of Science Department (i.e., in STSC and HSOC) is held during reading period at the end of spring term. It is required for all senior thesis writers and is the final step of getting honors in the major. 

The format is a lightning round followed by a poster reception. Each candidate gives 3-5 minute summary of their project to the audience of faculty, students, family, friends and other thesis writers. Each candidate also displays a research poster based on their thesis at the following reception.

7) What costs will I incur as an honors candidate?

There are no books to purchase for 498, but candidates will incur these costs: printing and binding of the thesis (January) and printing of the research poster (April).

Candidates may incur research costs; they should discuss funding sources with the STSC Chair or Associate Director.