Thesis Proposal Practicum

Catalog description

Developing a successful D.Min. thesis proposal is a complex, rigorous, and multifaceted process requiring the integration of research, writing, and organizational skills, filtered through Published 3/26/26; rev 4/17/26; rev 4/29/26 15 the theological, conceptual, and reflective lenses students bring to their projects. This course presupposes the writing of a thesis proposal as integral to the successful completion of the thesis project that it describes. It imagines the thesis proposal as a map delineating the route to the completed thesis, and it invites each student to become an active cartographer of his or her own proposal/map. While the course will be adapted to the needs of the students enrolled, the following topics will be addressed: • Thinking and writing in sophisticated theological terms • Framing, developing, and limiting the scope of a research question • Following the question to a working thesis statement with an argumentative edge • Engaging in contextual theological reflection to develop the thesis argument • Finding and using resources for an annotated bibliography and literature review • Writing a good thesis proposal draft that maps the projected thesis project • Learning the process for working with advisor, reader, and writing coach (as needed) to complete the thesis proposal, submission, and project/case study work, with a final thesis as the outcome of the D.Min. program. The course will include synchronous instruction and discussion, and asynchronous assignments to develop the draft proposal.