Writing a Thesis Proposal

To propose a thesis, you must have a 3.2 overall GPA and a 3.5 GPA in English courses.
The English Department requires that students work closely with an advisor in the Department as they prepare their proposals. In consultation with your advisor, you should:

Settle on a workable thesis topic
Read and discuss at least one substantial text to be studied in your thesis
Develop and compose your senior thesis proposal, using the format that follows

Format for Proposal Cover Page

Your proposal should have a cover page that includes:

Your name
The month and year you plan to graduate
Your thesis advisor
A list of courses taken in the English Department (title, term, instructor)
A list of any other relevant courses taken outside the English Department

Writing the Thesis Proposal

Your proposal should:

Introduce your topic in some detail and formulate a preliminary argument
Discuss the literary works and secondary materials you plan to consult to make your argument
Describe your preparation for dealing with this topic
Include a complete bibliography, in MLA format, of the materials you plan to read for your thesis
Include a weekly schedule of your plans for summer work

Planning Summer Research

Your goal for the summer should be to read through and take notes on all of the materials you will examine in your thesis. You need to set a reachable goal for each week.

Your weekly schedule should involve substantial work, but it should also be realistic, taking into consideration any other obligations you will have during the summer.

Your summer research should prepare you to begin drafting your thesis at the beginning of fall semester (if not earlier!).

Next Steps

Your completed proposal should be given to the English Department Chair by 3 p.m. the day it is due (usually the Wednesday before Spring Break).

If the proposal is accepted by the English Department, you will register for ENG-454 Honors Research the following semester.