In order to graduate with Honors, students must complete an Honors thesis. Here are some guidelines to help you with this process.
You don't have to wait. You don't have to be a college professor or a published author or anyone else. If you've found a subject that needs to be researched, push on. If you have an insight, or even just an inkling of one, about something that you feel is important, trust yourself and get to work. You can start right now. - Dr. Scott Ellsworth, Author of "The Ground Breaking: An American City and Its Search for Justice"
Deciding on your thesis work?
As you decide on your major(s), you will want to meet with a departmental thesis advisor to discuss opportunities for individual research. Each LSA department handles the criteria by which Honor students approach their thesis work. Honors advisors can assist you in your search process, but departments declare your intent to complete the research required to graduate. [Math Majors: Please contact the department for detailed information.]
Does Honors offer support for thesis work?
Honors currently offers three types of thesis support: (1) research and travel grants, (2) Honors Summer Fellows, and (3) a new pilot program between Sweetland Writing Center, departments, and Honors.
If you think you would like help and support from a tutor who (very successfully!) went through the same process as well as from your fellow thesis writers in a similar area, please fill out this form and Honors will be in touch with the details. For consideration this term, you must complete the form prior to the last day to drop/add in Wolverine Access.
What is the advantage of completing a thesis?
Along with the breadth of a liberal arts education, thesis work offers the opportunity for the author to present their own research and findings. This type of academic writing is required in the majority of graduate programs and is valued by employers. You will become an expert on the subject of your topic, having completed independent and substantive work.
Is there a penalty if I do not complete my thesis?
If you find you are unable to complete your thesis work, there is no penalty. You will contact your department, so that they can remove the Honors plan from your major. Your academic records will be transferred to Newnan Advising. Your senior audit will be completed by Newnan and you will graduate through LSA. Note: If you were using your thesis as your ULWR, please contact honors.auditor@umich.edu.
