Thesis FAQs

A – No. You may submit the thesis that you write for Honors as your Departmental thesis or as your Ashbrook thesis (or both).

Remember, however, that to get history or political science credit for your thesis, your thesis advisor must be a member of the Department.

Ashbrook students writing Honors theses, especially those who are not seeking history or political science credit, should make an extra effort to keep in touch with the Director of the Ashbrook Center regarding your topic and your progress.

A – The differences between the Honors timeline and the Department’s timeline are minimal. In general, you should follow the earlier deadlines.

If a significant problem or conflict emerges, see the Chair of the Department, who will work the problem out in consultation with the Director of the Honors Program.

Ashbrook Scholars who are neither in the Honors Program nor seeking credit for their theses in the Department of History and Political Science should consult with the Director of the Ashbrook Center.

A – No. Majors in the Department of History and Political Science are not required to write a thesis. If you choose to write one and sign up for a class to do so but then fail to complete the thesis, that class will be treated like any other incomplete class.

Ashbrook Scholars, however, must complete a thesis, and your ability to complete your Senior Thesis should be a factor in your decision to graduate early. If you believe it will not be possible to complete an adequate thesis prior to your desired graduation date, you should reconsider your plans for early graduation.