Thesis and directed research form
Please use this form for directed research, independent study, and thesis classes. Note that you cannot simply sign up for directed research or thesis like a regular class, but instead must complete this form with all the required information and e-signatures. Students on assistantship should note that failure to complete this paperwork early in the registration cycle could jeopardize their paychecks in the subsequent semester.
Non-thesis students (POLS 695): Complete this form in your second-to-last semester after you have secured a faculty mentor to supervise your directed research work in your final semester. Students should not complete the form until they have carefully read through the directed research timeline and instructions in the Graduate Handbook. Students should indicate that the course is POLS 695 and is worth 3 credit hours. You will check the “research” box. Leave the site supervisor information blank. Students should provide a brief description of the project agreed upon with their faculty advisor. You must e-sign the document, then send it to your faculty mentor for their e-signature. Then it will be sent to the Graduate Director. After the approval, the class will appear automatically on your schedule.
Thesis students (POLS 699): You will need to complete this form twice, once for each semester of 699 thesis hours. Students should not complete the form until they have carefully read through the thesis timeline and instructions in the Graduate Handbook. Please indicate that the course is POLS 699 and is worth 3 hours. You will check the “research” box. Leave the site supervisor information blank. Students should provide a brief description of the project agreed upon with their thesis director. You must e-sign the document, then send it to your faculty mentor for their e-signature. Then it will be sent to the Graduate Director. After the approval, the class will appear automatically on your schedule.