Undergraduate Program

Honors Program in Theology: Details and Deadlines

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Directed Reading Course

In the Fall of their Senior year, students will take a one-credit directed readings course with their thesis director in order to define their topic, compile a bibliography, and begin the thesis research. They will also enroll in a 1-credit "Honors Colloquium." Each student will make two presentations to the Honors Colloquium. At the first, the student will present argumentative summaries of a book or set of articles that the student has read in preparation for the thesis project, and will discuss the developing shape of his or her project. At a second presentation to the Colloquium, each student will present an outline of the thesis to the colloquium. The Honors Colloquium will take place provided that at least five students are enrolled in the Honors Program.

Prospectus

On the third Monday in September, a Prospectus will be due to the thesis director and the Honors Program Coordinator, including 1) topic statement, outlining the problem to be studied and its potential interest and importance, 2) individual preparation, indicating what previous course work has prepared the student to undertake the project, and 3) preliminary annotated bibliography.

Interim Report

December 15: Interim report due to thesis director and Honors Program Coordinator, including 1) a discussion of progress made to date, 2) elaborations or alterations in the student's understanding of the nature of the project, 3) a plan for research and writing in the next semester, and 4) a tentative outline.

Honors Thesis Writing Course

In the Spring of their Senior year, students will enroll in a 3-credit "Honors Thesis Writing" course and write a 40-50 page thesis under the direction of their thesis director. Students may petition to write the thesis in the Fall Semester.

Thesis Deadline

April 15: Thesis due to the thesis director and second reader. The thesis director may set an earlier deadline for a draft or deadlines for drafts of specific sections.

Thesis Grading

The thesis will be read by the thesis director and by one additional member of the department, also selected by the Honors Program Coordinator, in consultation with faculty. The final grade will be an average of the grade given by the director and the grade given by the reader. In order to receive the honors designation on their transcript, students must earn a A- or higher grade on their thesis. If students earn a B+ or lower grade on their thesis, the thesis course title will be changed from "Honors Thesis Writing" to "Senior Thesis Writing."

Thesis Archives

The department will create an archive of honors theses, and make these available for consultation by students and faculty within the department.