What is it?

The thesis is an independent, original research project; the capstone of the work you’ve done at the Honors College and in your major field. Like a graduate thesis, your honors thesis will place your original research or creative work in the context of prior research or artistic traditions. It will explain the technique you used for your research or creative work, and present and elaborate on your results. The honors thesis is written in lay language and, when completed, is defended orally to your Thesis Defense Committee faculty.

Why do it?

It’s challenging, rewarding, and fun. It’s the chance to take your knowledge and interests to new depths. It’s required for graduation from the Honors College, and it’s a bridge to graduate school and careers. Need more reasons? See what HC grads have said.

Where to start?

Typically, students start working on their thesis in their junior year or sometimes late in their sophomore year. We’ve broken the process down into Seven Steps. Take a look.

"The Honors College thesis allowed me to accomplish two very important goals: to creatively blend my two majors, Video Production and Theatre Arts; and to provide real-world video production experience so I left my undergraduate schooling with a competitive edge. I still rely on the lessons I learned while producing and directing my first short film at UO and I show the video as part of my demo reel on my company’s website."
-Windy Borman ‘05