Thesis II

Catalog description

The Department of Historic Preservation's Thesis course is a two semester capstone. The goal of the Thesis is demonstrated mastery of the research process by exploring a question of academic/professional relevance to the preservation field and convincingly communicating an argument and findings through writing. The thesis is designed to serve as the basis for a potentially publishable article. The purpose of the Thesis courses is to help shepherd students through designing and completing an intellectually challenging but manageable project that hones their research and writing skills and makes an original contribution to knowledge. Thesis I and II span the academic year, beginning with HSPV 7100 /Thesis I in the fall semester and, pending successful completion, continuing in the spring with HSPV 7110 /Thesis II. Students are required to successfully complete 9-10 CUs (the first year of the curriculum) to qualify for Thesis. Dual degree students are expected to enroll in HSPV 7100 before undertaking thesis studio in their respective dual program in their final year. Thesis I is dedicated to developing a successful thesis research proposal, writing a literature review, and identifying source material and research methods in pursuit of answering their thesis research questions. During Thesis II, students focus on implementing their research proposals, analyzing their research findings, writing, and peer review. Classes are structured in a workshop format where students regularly present their progress, engage in peer review in support of one another, and learn about the publishing and publication process. Throughout the year, and in conjunction with the course, students work closely with their individual thesis advisors.