final thesis school

While Sandel argues that pursuing perfection through genetic engineering would decrease our sense of humility, he claims that the sense of solidarity we would lose is also important.

This thesis summarizes several points in Sandel’s argument, but it does not make a claim about how we should understand his argument. A reader who read Sandel’s argument would not also need to read an essay based on this descriptive thesis.  

Broad thesis (arguable, but difficult to support with evidence) 

Michael Sandel’s arguments about genetic engineering do not take into consideration all the relevant issues.

This is an arguable claim because it would be possible to argue against it by saying that Michael Sandel’s arguments do take all of the relevant issues into consideration. But the claim is too broad. Because the thesis does not specify which “issues” it is focused on—or why it matters if they are considered—readers won’t know what the rest of the essay will argue, and the writer won’t know what to focus on. If there is a particular issue that Sandel does not address, then a more specific version of the thesis would include that issue—hand an explanation of why it is important.  

Arguable thesis with analytical claim 

While Sandel argues persuasively that our instinct to “remake” (54) ourselves into something ever more perfect is a problem, his belief that we can always draw a line between what is medically necessary and what makes us simply “better than well” (51) is less convincing.

This is an arguable analytical claim. To argue for this claim, the essay writer will need to show how evidence from the article itself points to this interpretation. It’s also a reasonable scope for a thesis because it can be supported with evidence available in the text and is neither too broad nor too narrow.  

Arguable thesis with normative claim 

Given Sandel’s argument against genetic enhancement, we should not allow parents to decide on using Human Growth Hormone for their children.

This thesis tells us what we should do about a particular issue discussed in Sandel’s article, but it does not tell us how we should understand Sandel’s argument.  

Questions to ask about your thesis 

• Is the thesis truly arguable? Does it speak to a genuine dilemma in the source, or would most readers automatically agree with it?  
• Is the thesis too obvious? Again, would most or all readers agree with it without needing to see your argument?  
• Is the thesis complex enough to require a whole essay's worth of argument?  
• Is the thesis supportable with evidence from the text rather than with generalizations or outside research?  
• Would anyone want to read a paper in which this thesis was developed? That is, can you explain what this paper is adding to our understanding of a problem, question, or topic?
• picture_as_pdf Thesis

The Thesis Process

The thesis is an opportunity to work independently on a research project of your own design and contribute to the scholarly literature in your field. You emerge from the thesis process with a solid understanding of how original research is executed and how to best communicate research results. Many students have gone on to publish their research in academic or professional journals.

To ensure affordability, the per-credit tuition rate for the 8-credit thesis is the same as our regular course tuition. There are no additional fees (regular per-credit graduate tuition x 8 credits).

Below are the steps that you need to follow to fulfill the thesis requirement. Please know that through each step, you will receive guidance and mentorship.

1. Meet with Your Research Advisor

Upon admission to the program, set up an introductory meeting with your Research Advisor to discuss potential thesis topics as well as course selections that can support your thesis path. 

When you have completed between 24 and 32 credits, you work more intensively with your assigned Research Advisor to determine a specific thesis topic.

Log in to MyDCE , then ALB/ALM Community to schedule an appointment with your assigned Research Advisor via the Degree Candidate Portal.

Failure to work with your Research Advisor initially and then more intensively may result in your Crafting the Thesis Proposal (CTP) Application not being approved (see below) and/or the selection of a different thesis topic.  

Thesis Topic Selection Guidelines

Every effort is made to support research interests that are grounded in your ALM course work, but faculty guidance is not available for all possible projects. Therefore, revision or a change of thesis topic may be necessary.

• The above point about topic selection is particularly pertinent to scientific research (e.g., biology) that is dependent upon laboratory space, project funding, and access to private databases.
• This point is also critical for our candidates in ALM, liberal arts fields (i.e., anthropology, English, government, history, international relations, psychology, and religion) who are required to have Harvard faculty direct their thesis projects. Review Harvard’s course catalog online ( My.Harvard.edu ) to be sure that there are faculty teaching courses related to your thesis topic. If faculty are not available, you will need to choose an alternative topic.
• Your topic choice must be a new area of research for you. You cannot re-purpose prior research. If you want to draw or expand upon your own previously written scholarship for a small portion of your thesis, you need to obtain the explicit permission of your research advisor and cite the work in both the proposal and thesis. Violations of this policy will be referred to the Administrative Board.

We’ve put together this guide  to help frame your thinking about thesis topic selection.

While it is natural to follow your interests in selecting a thesis topic, it is important to avoid choosing a topic where your own passions might produce insurmountable biases and assumptions. A thesis is not a piece of advocacy work where you are out to prove something that you already believe. Thesis projects must take a fair and balanced stance by bringing in differing points of view from respected scholars in the field. 

2. Prepare Your Crafting the Thesis Proposal Application

Once you and your Research Advisor have confirmed your thesis topic, the next step in the process is to prepare and submit the CTP Application in order to gain registration approval for the Crafting the Thesis Proposal (CTP) tutorial or course.

The CTP Application process confirms that you have done enough prior reading and thinking about your thesis topic to generate a pertinent and answerable research question. Pre-CTP preparation is critical as it helps to ensure that you will benefit from and succeed in the CTP.

Application Approvals and Denials. Your Research Advisor will provide feedback on your CTP Application.  If your application is not approved after 3 submissions, your Research Advisor cannot approve your CTP registration. 

If not approved, you’ll need to take additional time for further revisions and submit a new CTP Application during the next CTP submission cycle (if your five-year degree completion date allows).

Application Eligibility Requirements. To be eligible to submit a CTP Application, you need to (1) be in good standing and (2) have completed a minimum of 32 degree-applicable credits, including the research methods/statistics and Engaging in Scholarly Conversation requirement, if required for your field.

Advising Note for Psychology Candidates View More

Students in psychology sometimes face difficulty securing necessary IRB approvals for certain projects. For this reason, Research Advisors will not approve proposals that raise significant concerns about feasibility. Such concerns include cases where projects would require the researcher to possess a level of expertise or experience exceeding documented capabilities, as well as instances where the researcher is unlikely to be able to obtain appropriate faculty supervision for a proposed topic, question, method, or procedure. You must schedule an appointment with your Research Advisor at least three months in advance of the CTP Application deadlines to discuss potential research projects to ensure adequate time for assistance in developing a viable project idea.

Advising Note for Biology and former Biotechnology and Bioengineering and Nanotechnology Candidates View More

Thesis projects in these fields are designed to support ongoing scientific research happening in Harvard University, other academic institutions, or life science industry labs and usually these are done under the direction of a principal investigator (PI). Hence, you need to have a thesis director approved by your research advisor  prior  to submitting CTP Application. Your CTP Application is then framed by the lab’s research. Schedule an appointment with your research advisor a few months in advance of the CTP Application deadlines in order to discuss potential research projects and thesis director assignment.

The CTP Application is sent to our central email box:  [email protected]  by the following firm deadlines:

• June 1 for fall CTP
• November 1 for spring CTP.  
• September 1 for the three-week January session (ALM sustainability candidates only)
• International sustainability students who need a student visa to attend Harvard Summer School must be officially admitted to the degree program before February 1, must submit the CTP Application on February 1, and must register for the CTP course on March 1 in order to submit timely I-20 paperwork. See international students guidelines for more information.

3. Register and Successfully Complete Crafting the Thesis Proposal

Once your CTP Application is approved, you register for the Crafting the Thesis Proposal (CTP) tutorial or course as you would any other degree requirement.

The goal of the CTP is to produce a complete, well-written draft of a proposal containing all of the sections required by your Research Advisor. Creating an academically strong thesis proposal sets the foundation for a high-quality thesis and helps garner the attention of a well-respected thesis director.

Thesis proposals typically include approximately 15 to 20 pages of text, in addition to any required reference sections, such as bibliographies and glossary/definition of terms.

Tutorial experience. The fall and spring CTP  tutorials are not courses in the traditional sense. Although there will be assignments for you to complete during the CTP, with due dates, and there will be times when you and your classmates meet as a group with your Research Advisor, there won’t be a regularly scheduled class meeting time for the CTP. 

The main work for the CTP will consist of your working independently on your proposal with your Research Advisor by submitting multiple drafts and scheduling individual appointments.

Grading. You need to make self-directed progress on the proposal without special prompting from the research advisor. You receive a final grade of SAT or UNSAT (failing grade).

You are expected to incorporate all of your Research Advisor’s feedback and be fully committed to producing an academically strong proposal leading to a thesis worthy of a Harvard degree. If you are unable to take advice from your Research Advisor, follow directions, or produce an acceptable proposal, you will not pass the CTP.

The CTP for sustainability is a three-week course in the traditional sense and you receive a letter grade, and it must be B- or higher to receive degree credit for the course.

Academic Integrity. Successful CTP completion also includes a check on the proper use of sources according to our academic integrity guidelines. Violations of our academic integrity policy will be referred to the Administrative Board.

Maximum of two attempts . If you don’t pass the CTP, you’ll have — if your five-year, degree-completion date allows — just one more attempt to complete the CTP before being required to withdraw from the program. If you fail the CTP just once and have no more time to complete the degree, your candidacy will automatically expire. Please note that a WD grade counts as an attempt.

If by not passing the CTP you fall into poor academic standing, you will need to take additional degree-applicable courses to return to good standing before enrolling in the CTP for your second and final time, but only if your five-year, degree-completion date allows. If you have no more time on your five-year clock, you will be required to withdraw from the program.

Human Subjects

If your thesis, regardless of field, will involve the use of human subjects (e.g., interviews, surveys, observations), you will need to have your research vetted by the  Committee on the Use of Human Subjects  (CUHS) of Harvard University. Please review the IRB Lifecycle Guide located on the CUHS website. Your research advisor will help you prepare a draft copy of the project protocol form that you will then finalize with your thesis director to send to the CUHS. 

Given the amount of time that can be required for IRB review, drafting of the required CUHS project protocol forms need to be started with your Research Advisor during the CTP tutorial, before a thesis director has been assigned.

4. Post-CTP Proposal Approval, Thesis Director Assignment, and Registration

Successfully completion of the CTP means you have completed a well-written full draft proposal. Ordinarily, this full draft is not a final accepted proposal. Most students reach the final accepted proposal stage by submitting additional changes and edits to their RA post-CTP.

Post-CTP Changes and Edits Deadline. We expect you to work diligently and quickly with your RA post-CTP to move from full draft to final proposal stage. Indeed, you should have an approved final proposal and be registered in the thesis soon after CTP completion, within weeks, but no later than 3 months. You cannot delay. If you take longer than 3 months after the CTP to register for the thesis, you may be required to retake the CTP.

Thesis Director Assignment. Once your RA has determined that your draft has reached the final proposal stage, you move to the thesis director assignment stage. The Research Advisor places you with a thesis director by sending out your final proposal to prospective Thesis Directors.

Do not approach faculty to ask about directing your thesis.  You may suggest names of any potential Thesis Directors to your Research Advisor, but it must be the Research Advisor who makes contact with them. (If they are eligible/available to direct your thesis, after you have an approved thesis proposal.) You are not permitted to approach faculty to ask them about directing your thesis.

Registration. When a Thesis Director has been identified or the thesis proposal has been fully vetted by the preassigned life science Thesis Director, you will receive a letter of authorization from the Assistant Dean of Academic Programs officially approving your thesis work and providing you with instructions on how to register for the eight-credit master’s thesis. The letter will also have a tentative graduation date as well as four mandatory thesis submission dates (see Thesis Timetable below).

When registering for the thesis, you will have two weeks to pay in full.  This is an eight-credit course, so be sure to have the necessary funds available when you register.

You must be good academic standing to register for the thesis. If not, you’ll need to complete additional courses to bring your GPA up to the 3.0 minimum prior to registration.

Thesis Submission Deadlines and Graduation Timetable

The thesis is a 9-to-12-month project that begins after the Crafting the Thesis Proposal (CTP); when your Research Advisor has approved your proposal and identified a Thesis Director.

The date for the appointment of your Thesis Director determines the graduation cycle that will be automatically assigned to you:

As you can see above, you do not submit your thesis all at once at the end, but in four phases: (1) complete draft to TD, (2) final draft to RA for format review and academic integrity check, (3) format approved draft submitted to TD for grading, and (4) upload your 100% complete graded thesis to ETDs.

Due dates for all phases for your assigned graduation cycle cannot be missed.  You must submit materials by the date indicated by 5 PM EST (even if the date falls on a weekend). If you are late, you will not be able to graduate during your assigned cycle.

If you need additional time to complete your thesis, you need to formally request an extension by emailing that petition to:  [email protected] .  Regardless of when you started, the maximum allotted time to complete your thesis, including any granted extensions of time is 12 months.

Advising Tip to Meet Your Five-Year Deadline: The last possible time you can register for the CTP to meet your five-year deadline date is the fall term two years prior or, if a sustainability student, in the January session one year prior. It is not, however, recommended to wait this long. Indeed, it is vigorously discouraged.

For example, if your five-year deadline is May 2026:

• Complete the CTP in fall 2025 (or in January 2025, if a sustainability student)
• Be assigned a Thesis Director (TD) in March/April 2025
• Begin the 9–12-month thesis project with TD
• Submit a complete draft of your thesis to your TD by February 1, 2026
• Follow through with all other submission deadlines (April 1, April 15 and May 1 — see table above)
• Graduate in May 2026

5. Working with Your Thesis Director

You must work diligently and independently, following the advice of your Thesis Director in a consistent, regular manner equivalent to full-time academic work to complete both the research and the writing phases of your thesis by your required timeline.

You are expected to incorporate all of your Thesis Director’s feedback and be fully committed to producing an academically strong thesis worthy of a Harvard degree. If you are unable to take advice from your Thesis Director, follow directions, or produce an acceptable scholarly thesis product, you will not receive a passing grade.

You are required to produce at least 50 pages of text (not including front matter and appendices). Chapter topics (e.g., introduction, background, methods, findings, conclusion) vary by field.

Once registered in the thesis, we will do a 3-month check-in with you and your Thesis Director to ensure progress is being made. If your Thesis Director reports little to no progress, the Dean of Academic Programs reserves the right to issue a thesis not complete (TNC) grade (see Thesis Grading below).

6. Thesis Template, Format Review, and Academic Integrity Check

All ALM thesis projects must written in Microsoft Word and follow a specific Harvard Extension School format. A properly formatted thesis is an explicit degree requirement; you cannot graduate without it.

You are required to use the Extension School  ALM Thesis Template  or the Extension School ALM Thesis Template for Creative Writing  (specifically designed for creative writing degree candidates). The template has all the mandatory thesis formatting built in.

Besides saving you a considerable amount of time as you write your thesis, the template ensures that your submitted thesis meets the mandatory style guidelines for margins, font, title page, table of contents, and chapter headings. If you use the template, format review should go smoothly, if not, a delayed graduation is highly likely.

Your Research Advisor will complete the format review  prior  to submitting your thesis to your Thesis Director for final grading according to the Thesis Timetable (see above).

Academic Integrity. Format review also includes a check on the proper use of sources according to our  academic integrity  guidelines. Violations of our academic integrity policy will be referred to the Administrative Board.

7. Mandatory Thesis Archiving

Once your thesis is finalized, meaning that the required grade has been earned and all edits have been completed, you must upload your thesis to Harvard University’s electronic thesis and dissertation submission system (ETDs).

Uploading your thesis ETDs is an explicit degree requirement; you cannot graduate without completing this step. Furthermore, no changes to the thesis are allowed once it has been graded and archived in ETDs.

The thesis project will be sent to several downstream systems:

• Your work will be preserved using Harvard’s digital repository DASH (Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard).
• Metadata about your work will be sent to HOLLIS (the Harvard Library catalog).
• Your work will be preserved in Harvard Library’s DRS2 (digital preservation repository).

By submitting work through ETDs @ Harvard you will be signing the Harvard Author Agreement. This license does not constrain your rights to publish your work subsequently. You retain all intellectual property rights.

For more information on Harvard’s open access initiatives, we recommend you view the Director of the Office of Scholarly Communication (OSC), Peter Suber’s brief introduction .

Thesis Grading

You need to earn a grade of B- or higher in the thesis. If you fail to complete substantial work on the thesis, you will earn a grade of TNC (thesis not complete). If you have already earned two withdrawal grades, the TNC grade will count as a zero in your cumulative GPA.

If you earn a grade below B-, you will need to petition the Administrative Board for permission to attempt the thesis for a second and final time. The petition process is only available if you are in good academic standing and your five-year, degree-completion date allows for more time. Your candidacy will automatically expire if you do not successfully complete the thesis by your required date.

If approved for a second attempt, you may be required to develop a new proposal on a different topic by re-enrolling in the CTP and being assigned a different thesis director. Tuition for the second attempt is calculated at the current year’s rate.

If by not passing the thesis you fall into poor academic standing, you’ll need to take additional degree-applicable courses to return to good standing before re-engaging with the thesis process for the second and final time. This is only an option if your five-year, degree-completion date allows for more time.

The Board only reviews cases in which extenuating circumstances prevented the successful completion of the thesis.

Harvard Division of Continuing Education

The Division of Continuing Education (DCE) at Harvard University is dedicated to bringing rigorous academics and innovative teaching capabilities to those seeking to improve their lives through education. We make Harvard education accessible to lifelong learners from high school to retirement.

What’s Included: The Dissertation Template

If you’re preparing to write your dissertation, thesis or research project, our free dissertation template is the perfect starting point. In the template, we cover every section step by step, with clear, straightforward explanations and examples .

The template’s structure is based on the tried and trusted best-practice format for formal academic research projects such as dissertations and theses. The template structure reflects the overall research process, ensuring your dissertation or thesis will have a smooth, logical flow from chapter to chapter.

The dissertation template covers the following core sections:

• The title page/cover page
• Abstract (sometimes also called the executive summary)
• Table of contents
• List of figures /list of tables
• Chapter 1: Introduction  (also available: in-depth introduction template )
• Chapter 2: Literature review  (also available: in-depth LR template )
• Chapter 3: Methodology (also available: in-depth methodology template )
• Chapter 4: Research findings /results (also available: results template )
• Chapter 5: Discussion /analysis of findings (also available: discussion template )
• Chapter 6: Conclusion (also available: in-depth conclusion template )
• Reference list

Each section is explained in plain, straightforward language , followed by an overview of the key elements that you need to cover within each section. We’ve also included practical examples to help you understand exactly what’s required in each section.

The cleanly-formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX.

FAQs: Dissertation Template

What format is the template (doc, pdf, ppt, etc.).

The dissertation template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

What types of dissertations/theses can this template be used for?

The template follows the standard best-practice structure for formal academic research projects such as dissertations or theses, so it is suitable for the vast majority of degrees, particularly those within the sciences.

Some universities may have some additional requirements, but these are typically minor, with the core structure remaining the same. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalise your structure.

Will this work for a research paper?

A research paper follows a similar format, but there are a few differences. You can find our research paper template here .

Is this template for an undergrad, Masters or PhD-level thesis?

This template can be used for a dissertation, thesis or research project at any level of study. It may be slight overkill for an undergraduate-level study, but it certainly won’t be missing anything.

How long should my dissertation/thesis be?

This depends entirely on your university’s specific requirements, so it’s best to check with them. As a general ballpark, Masters-level projects are usually 15,000 – 20,000 words in length, while Doctoral-level projects are often in excess of 60,000 words.

What about the research proposal?

If you’re still working on your research proposal, we’ve got a template for that here .

We’ve also got loads of proposal-related guides and videos over on the Grad Coach blog .

How do I write a literature review?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack how to write a literature review from scratch. You can check out the literature review section of the blog here.

How do I create a research methodology?

We have a wealth of free resources on the Grad Coach Blog that unpack research methodology, both qualitative and quantitative. You can check out the methodology section of the blog here.

Can I share this dissertation template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template. If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, all we ask is that you reference this page as your source.

Can Grad Coach help me with my dissertation/thesis?

Within the template, you’ll find plain-language explanations of each section, which should give you a fair amount of guidance. However, you’re also welcome to consider our dissertation and thesis coaching services .

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Dissertations and Theses

The dissertation is the hallmark of the research expertise demonstrated by a doctoral student. It is a scholarly contribution to knowledge in the student’s area of specialization. By researching and writing a dissertation, the student is expected to demonstrate a high level of knowledge and the capability to function as an independent scholar. 

A thesis is a hallmark of some master’s programs. It is a piece of original research, generally less comprehensive than a dissertation, and is meant to show the student’s knowledge of an area of specialization.  

Document Preparation

PhD and master’s students are responsible for meeting all requirements for preparing theses and dissertations. They are expected to confer with their advisors about disciplinary and program expectations and to follow Graduate School procedure requirements.

The Graduate School’s format review is in place to help the document submission process go smoothly for the student. Format reviews for PhD dissertations and master’s theses can be done remotely or in-person. The format review is required at or before the two-week notice of the final defense. 

Access and Distribution

Ohio State has agreements with two organizations— OhioLINK   and   ProQuest/UMI Dissertation Publishing —that store and provide access to Ohio State theses and dissertations.  

Examinations

Graduate degree examinations are a major milestone in all graduate students’ pursuit of their graduate degree. Much hinges on the successful completion of these examinations, including the ability to continue in a graduate program. 

The rules and processes set by the Graduate School ensure the integrity of these examinations for graduate students, the graduate faculty, and for Ohio State. 

Final Semester

During your final semester as a graduate student there are many activities that lead up to commencement and receiving your degree. Complete the final semester checklist and learn more about commencement activities.

Graduation Calendar

Select your expected graduation term below to see specific dates concerning when to apply for graduation, complete your examinations and reports, submit approved thesis and dissertation, commencement, and the end-of semester deadline.

Applications to Graduate Due 1  : January 26, 2024

Examinations and Reports completed by 2  : April 12, 2024

Approved thesis and dissertation submitted and accepted by 3  : April 19, 2024

Commencement 4  : May 5, 2024

End of Semester Deadline 5  : May 6, 2024

Applications to Graduate Due 1  : May 24, 2024

Examinations and Reports completed by 2  : July 12, 2024

Approved thesis and dissertation submitted and accepted by 3  : July 19, 2024

Commencement 4  : August 4, 2024

End of Semester Deadline 5  : August 19, 2024

Applications to Graduate Due 1  : September 6, 2024

Examinations and Reports completed by 2  : November 22, 2024

Approved thesis and dissertation submitted and accepted by 3  : November 27, 2024

Commencement 4  : December 15, 2024

End of Semester Deadline 5  : January 3, 2025

Applications to Graduate Due 1  : January 24, 2025

Examinations and Reports completed by 2  : April 11, 2025

Approved thesis and dissertation submitted and accepted by 3  : April 18, 2025

Commencement 4  : May 4, 2025

End of Semester Deadline 5  : May 5, 2025

1  Applications to graduate include current semester or End-of-Semester deadline. Applications must be received by close of business.

2 Format reviews may occur electronically or in person at the Graduate School during announced business hours.  Both options require submitting a digital version of the dissertation or DMA document draft in a PDF format to  [email protected] .  

3  Approved documents must be submitted via OhioLINK and accepted by the Graduate School by the close of business before the Report on Final Document will be processed.

4  Students not attending commencement must complete the commencement section on the Application to Graduate to indicate how their diploma should be disbursed.

5  A degree applicant who does not meet published graduation deadlines but who does complete all degree requirements by the last business day prior to the first day of classes for the following semester or summer term will graduate the following semester or summer term without registering or paying fees

Still Have Questions?

Dissertations & Theses 614-292-6031 [email protected]

Doctoral Exams, Master's Examination, Graduation Requirements 614-292-6031 [email protected]

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Thesis and Dissertation Credit

Thesis track master's students and all PhD students are required to submit their final thesis or dissertation to the Graduate School after the work has been successfully defended and deemed complete by the committee.  All students must complete  the submission process by the deadlines posted on the academic calendar for the desired semester of graduation. 

Details on the submission and formatting process can be found below.   The Graduate School has not prescribed a particular style to be followed in writing a thesis/dissertation. The style chosen must be appropriate to the student’s field of study. However, the Graduate School has adopted standards for form and organization. These standards are outlined in the formatting manual linked on this page.  

Formatting and Submission Resources

• Thesis and Dissertation Formatting Manual
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Other Resources

• Intent to Graduate
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The Graduate School offers a free formatting review to all students submitting a thesis or dissertation.  This review is not required, but is strongly suggested.  To obtain a review, please email your thesis/dissertation, either in PDF or with a sharing link, to [email protected] with 'Thesis Review' as the subject line. Reviews may take up to a week depending on the time of year. 

Students should become familiar with the formatting requirements that are outlined in the thesis manual .  The formatting specifications are based on universal formatting required by many colleges and universities around the country.  These requirements are also mandated by the publisher to ensure that all thesis and dissertations have a consistent format.

Students should not rely solely on previously bound copies of theses for answers on formatting issues. While bound copies may provide ideas for possible procedures, format requirements may have changed. If you have a question, please contact the Graduate School. 

The Graduate School does not create or host any formatting templates (Overleaf, LaTeX, etc.).  Any templates that may exist were created by prior students.  Students are advised caution when using previously created templates as formatting requirements may have changed. 

Final Submission

The final approved thesis/dissertation must be submitted to the Graduate School through ProQuest via the UNH ETD Administrator website by the appropriate deadline as published in the Graduate School calendar. Publishing options include traditional publishing (free) as well as open access publishing (additional cost).  The benefits of each can be found on the ProQuest website.  Students can opt to embargo their thesis (hold publication) if needed, which will delay publishing for a specified period of time.  Bound copies are available for purchase through ProQuest at the time of submission. Students should check with their department to determine if a bound copy is required. All fees are to be paid by the student at the time of submission.

Students are advised not to wait until the last minute to submit their work. Submissions must be received by the published deadline for your intended graduation term unless the Graduate School has granted an extension. The specific deadline for submission for each graduation date is published on the UNH Academic Calendar as well as on our calendar page .

*Under no circumstances will a submission be accepted after the graduation date has passed.

The final version of the thesis must be submitted electronically to the Graduate School via the secure UNH ProQuest ETD Administrator website: http://www.etdadmin.com/unh . Submissions should be made only after a student has successfully passed the defense and has made all the necessary corrections required by their committee. In addition to the ProQuest submission, students will also need to submit the Thesis Submission Form as well as a copy of their signed signature page to the Graduate School Dean's Office .  

ProQuest Thesis/Dissertation submission: Submit the completed and approved thesis/dissertation through ProQuest.  You will be able to choose from two publishing options and will be able to purchase bound copies if desired.

Signature Page: The signature page is created by the student and should be based on the sample template that we provide in the thesis formatting manual.  This page should be signed by all committee members as confirmation that the thesis/dissertation has been approved.  As we understand that not all faculty may be local or able to sign in person, digital or otherwise electronic signatures are permitted.  A hard copy signature page is not required.  The final page should be submitted to the Graduate School as  PDF file. 

Final Submission Form: This form/checklist, found linked at the top of this page, is to be filled out and submitted by the student as confirmation that all steps in the process have been completed.

The submission form and signature page can be submitted as PDF files to [email protected] (preferred).  Pages can also be submitted in person or mailed to the Graduate School Dean's Office in Thompson Hall.

These materials can be submitted in any order.  Once all materials have been received the Graduate School will review the submission.  If there are changes needed, the student will be notified and will be able to make the necessary changes and resubmit.

Students can choose between Traditional Publishing (no cost) or Open Access Publishing.  More information about the publishing options can be found on the ProQuest website at the time of submission.   All publishing fees are the responsibility of the student. 

Thesis/dissertation submissions will be sent for publishing after all degrees are awarded.  Publishing normally takes 8-10 weeks.  Once published, the thesis/dissertations will be made available online through ProQuest as well as through the UNH Library Scholar's Repository.  

Note: If the student opted for an embargo, then release will not be completed until the embargo expires.  In the case of an infinite embargo, the submission will never be made available. 

Students can request bound copies at the time of submission.  The Graduate School does not require students to purchase copies to complete the submission process.  However, some departments may still require/request copies.  Students can select any format for personal bound copies, however, for university use the 8 1/2 x 11 hardcover is recommended.  Payment for any bound copies is the responsibility of the student. 

After publication, bound copies will be printed and mailed to the address the student provided at the time of submission. Students can also order additional bound copies at any time through the ProQuest portal once publication is completed. 

Please contact [email protected] with any questions.

A thesis requires the completion of between 6-10 thesis credits.  Some departments have more specific requirements.  Students who enrolled for more than 10 credits will need to work with the Graduate School to withdraw the excess credits.  

Once the thesis is approved and submitted the department will submit a request to award the CR grade for thesis completion.  The Graduate School monitors thesis grades closely, but it is not unusual for thesis grades to remain incomplete until immediately before the degree is awarded. 

PhD students are required to register for Doctoral Research (999) each semester until their degree is awarded.  Once the dissertation is submitted and approved the department will submit a request to award the CR grade for the dissertation.  Please note that only the most recent registration of 999 will be given a CR.  All other registrations will have a IA grade. 

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Theses and Dissertations

Before you can upload your thesis or dissertation to OhioLINK, you must have the format of your manuscript checked to be sure it conforms to the Graduate School's requirements.

This section will provide you with information about correctly formatting your document, resources to help you prepare your document, and important dates and deadlines you need to keep in mind.

Master's Thesis Template (docx)

• Doctoral Dissertation Template (docx)

File Format and Templates

Preparing your manuscript.

Your thesis or dissertation must be consistent with the guidelines set out below. In order to facilitate this, the Graduate School has front matter templates that must be used.

The manuscript will have the following requirements:

• Margins must be 1" (one inch) at the top, bottom, left, and right of each page).
• Line spacing of the manuscript may be either 1.0 (single-spaced) or 1.5 (space-and-a-half). You may not use 2.0 (double spacing) in your manuscript or the front matter of your document.
• Fonts must be at least 12pt, Times New Roman, Verdana, Arial, or Calibri. These fonts are found to be the easiest to read online. Pick one font for your document and use it consistently.
• The first page that has a visible page number will always be the abstract, which will start with the Roman numerals iii.  The page numbering in the template is correct and should remain intact.
• Footnotes (if you choose to use them) are easier for the reader to follow than endnotes. If you decide to use endnotes, include a hyperlink from each endnote to its citation.

Templates for both theses and dissertations are here and should be downloaded and used to format your paper. They are easy to use with drop-down boxes to select options and are formatted correctly to the Graduate School requirements. Please do not change any part of the template that does not require your completion. If you have any questions about the templates, please email  [email protected] .

• Master's Thesis Template  (docx)

The abstract should be written to give a concise account of your research so that a reader can determine if he or she wishes to read the entire work. It should state the problem, describe the procedure or methods used, and summarize the conclusions reached. The abstract for a thesis has a maximum of 200 words. The abstract for a dissertation may have up to 400 words. 

Page Numbering

The Graduate School requires that page numbers be placed at the bottom center of the page, 3/4 inch above the edge. The templates are numbered for you in Roman numerals (iii, iv, v). The manuscript will be numbered in Arabic numbers (1, 2, 3) and will begin at the introduction or first page of your manuscript. All pages of the body of your manuscript, including images, blueprints, appendices, and bibliography are counted and numbered at the bottom of each page. The page numbers should stand alone without any additions (such as -6-, Pg. 6, etc.).

Back matter

There is no template for the back matter. The back matter consists of the bibliography (or reference list) and appendices. Typically, the back matter follows the conclusion of your thesis or dissertation; however, some departments require reference lists at the end of each chapter of the dissertation. You should consult your departmental guidelines regarding bibliographies and appendices, in addition to the appropriate style guide you are using to prepare your manuscript.

Accessibility

All theses and dissertations submitted to OhioLINK must meet the following accessibility requirements. Access to Adobe Pro is needed to complete these requirements. For information on how to obtain this access, see Accessibility Resources.

• PDF file includes full text  - Your document’s text must be complete and not include sections of images of text.
• To access this option, go to File/Properties and choose the Security tab.
• Ensure No Security is selected in the drop down menu.
• Click OK to close the properties box.
• Open File/Properties
• Select the Advanced tab
• Under Reading Options, choose the language used in the drop-down menu for "Language"
• Select Ok to close
• Go to File and select Properties
• Edit the title in the description selection
• Choose Initial View from the menu at the top of the box
• Under Window Options, in the "Show" box, choose "Document Title" in the drop-down menu
• Select OK to close

Effective Fall 2023 , all submitted theses and dissertations must include the above requirements and use alt-text for any images included in the manuscript. This process can take time, so if you plan to graduate in December 2023, start looking ahead at what will be included in your final document.

• Alt text should not begin with  Image of  as the screen reader will do this.
• Use descriptions of what is in the photo, but include the verb or emotion to help relay the entirety of the photo.
• If you choose to create your  alt-text in Windows  before putting it into a pdf, be sure to read the tips shared by Microsoft.
• After running an accessibility checker, Microsoft shares further steps to save your document as a pdf .
• In the tools pane on the right side, select Accessibility
• Select Reading Order
• Find the image that needs text and right-click it, selecting Edit Alternate Text
• A box shows up to type in your text.
• Save this and scroll through your document to the next image and repeat these steps until you are done.

Accessibility Resources

Below are resources you can access to help you make your submission accessible.

Adobe Creative Cloud Subscription Program

If you don’t have an Acrobat Pro account, you will need access to it. The library has licenses available to enrolled students and it does not require you to be on campus. With a little planning and time management, you can check out an Adobe Creative Cloud license from the library  for 14 days at a time. There are limited licenses available and you may have to wait a few days for a license to become available.

Computer Labs

Miami has on-campus devices that can be used. These can be found at the following locations:

• King Library - Check in with the staff for use of one of their devices.
• 264 Bachelor Hall
• Middletown - 013 Johnson Hall Room (Lab)
• VOA - 100 (Lab)
• Hamilton - 319 Mosler (Lab)

Personal License

If you choose to have your own Acrobat Pro or Creative Cloud license , there are options available for students. There is a 14-day trial available and a monthly subscription for $19.99/month. You may be able to complete your submission using the 14-day trial, however, depending on how many other submissions have been made, it may not be enough time to successfully complete your format check and upload. Submissions will be managed in the order they are received and if changes need to be made, your trial may run out before your document is published.

If you need assistance with your document or need more detail on tips to be accessible, you can visit Miami's  AccessMU Center . They also include best practices for formatting documents , which may be helpful. They also share information on alt-text .

When you believe your document has been formatted correctly, please email your PDF to [email protected]  to begin the format check process. You must be aware of the format check and OhioLINK deadlines.

Once you have completed the format check, you will be advised regarding the upload to OhioLINK. You may not upload to OhioLINK without permission from the Graduate School. You will receive information about the OhioLINK upload by email once your formatting has been approved.

If you have a very large PDF, you may want to optimize it to reduce the file size. You will want to pay attention to the quality of your document. While OhioLINK allows you to upload large files, if it takes someone fifteen minutes to download your PDF, they will probably forgo your research.

It is mandatory that you create an ORCID if you do not already have one. You may create this when you’ve been given instructions to upload to OhioLINK or do it in advance. If you already have the ID, please be sure to use that identifier when submitting your document to OhioLINK.

Once your paper is in the ETD Center at OhioLINK, it will be available for public viewing and download. Miami University students may not choose the option of uploading the abstract only! You must choose the first option that says you are uploading your bibliographic information, abstract, and full text. You are not permitted to choose the second option, even if you are requesting a publication delay! Your electronic thesis or dissertation will be indexed by Google, Yahoo, Microsoft, and other Internet search engines.

When you upload your PDF to OhioLINK, you will be asked if you want to have OhioLINK forward your thesis/dissertation to ProQuest . ProQuest is a comprehensive collection of theses and dissertations from around the world. There is no extra charge to do this and it is optional. Doctoral candidates are encouraged, but not required, to have their dissertations uploaded to ProQuest.

Delay of Publication

You should request a delay of publication only when it is absolutely necessary. If you think you might need a delay of publication, you should discuss this with your advisor and then submit the Delay of Publication form . On the OhioLINK website, you will be given up to two years to delay the publication, but if you are requesting more, simply write in the comment box that you are requesting 3, 4, or 5 years. When a Miami University ETD administrator reviews your submission, this will be overridden in OhioLINK based on the years and dates submitted on the Delay of Publication form.

While your publication is embargoed, the public will be able to see your abstract. However, your manuscript will not be available for viewing or download until your delay of publication expires. 

When you upload your dissertation/thesis to OhioLINK, you will be asked about copyright options . You will need to choose one of three options, and they will be explained. There are links on the submission form to additional information for each option. The Graduate School does not recommend one particular copyright option and suggests that you review this carefully. Many students choose the first option which is “Copyright, all rights reserved” which allows your document to be available under the fair use  terms of copyright law.

Remember, if you do not want your document immediately available, you can complete the Delay of Publication form.

There is a copyright notice included in your front matter template. Since your thesis or dissertation is copyright protected, you should complete that information in the template. If you like, you may also apply for an official copyright of your work via the U.S. Copyright Office for a reasonable fee.

Style Manuals

The Graduate School will accept theses and dissertations prepared in the format recommended by the style manual published by your discipline’s professional society. Other style manuals recommended are the following:

• A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations by Kate Turabian (8th Edition, Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2013)
• The Chicago Manual of Style  17th Edition, Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2017.
• Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (6th Edition, Washington, DC: American Psychological Association, 2009)

Additional Information

Some departments have additional guidelines for preparing manuscripts. It is your responsibility to follow department-specific guidelines together with those found in this guide when preparing your manuscript. The final responsibility for the format of your thesis or dissertation rests upon you as the author. Spelling, punctuation, and grammar must be used correctly. The Graduate School reserves the right to refuse any manuscript that does not observe these fundamentals and that does not follow the format guidelines found within.

If you find your plans change and you have already applied for graduation , you will need to email [email protected] . Your application will be canceled and you can reapply for a new term when you are prepared.

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Open Access Theses and Dissertations

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About OATD.org

OATD.org aims to be the best possible resource for finding open access graduate theses and dissertations published around the world. Metadata (information about the theses) comes from over 1100 colleges, universities, and research institutions . OATD currently indexes 6,948,050 theses and dissertations.

About OATD (our FAQ) .

Visual OATD.org

We’re happy to present several data visualizations to give an overall sense of the OATD.org collection by county of publication, language, and field of study.

You may also want to consult these sites to search for other theses:

• Google Scholar
• NDLTD , the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations. NDLTD provides information and a search engine for electronic theses and dissertations (ETDs), whether they are open access or not.
• Proquest Theses and Dissertations (PQDT), a database of dissertations and theses, whether they were published electronically or in print, and mostly available for purchase. Access to PQDT may be limited; consult your local library for access information.

Developing a Thesis Statement

Many papers you write require developing a thesis statement. In this section you’ll learn what a thesis statement is and how to write one.

Keep in mind that not all papers require thesis statements . If in doubt, please consult your instructor for assistance.

What is a thesis statement?

A thesis statement . . .

• Makes an argumentative assertion about a topic; it states the conclusions that you have reached about your topic.
• Makes a promise to the reader about the scope, purpose, and direction of your paper.
• Is focused and specific enough to be “proven” within the boundaries of your paper.
• Is generally located near the end of the introduction ; sometimes, in a long paper, the thesis will be expressed in several sentences or in an entire paragraph.
• Identifies the relationships between the pieces of evidence that you are using to support your argument.

Not all papers require thesis statements! Ask your instructor if you’re in doubt whether you need one.

Identify a topic

Your topic is the subject about which you will write. Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic; or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper.

Consider what your assignment asks you to do

Inform yourself about your topic, focus on one aspect of your topic, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts, generate a topic from an assignment.

Below are some possible topics based on sample assignments.

Sample assignment 1

Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II.

Identified topic

Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis

This topic avoids generalities such as “Spain” and “World War II,” addressing instead on Franco’s role (a specific aspect of “Spain”) and the diplomatic relations between the Allies and Axis (a specific aspect of World War II).

Sample assignment 2

Analyze one of Homer’s epic similes in the Iliad.

The relationship between the portrayal of warfare and the epic simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64.

This topic focuses on a single simile and relates it to a single aspect of the Iliad ( warfare being a major theme in that work).

Developing a Thesis Statement–Additional information

Your assignment may suggest several ways of looking at a topic, or it may name a fairly general concept that you will explore or analyze in your paper. You’ll want to read your assignment carefully, looking for key terms that you can use to focus your topic.

Sample assignment: Analyze Spain’s neutrality in World War II Key terms: analyze, Spain’s neutrality, World War II

After you’ve identified the key words in your topic, the next step is to read about them in several sources, or generate as much information as possible through an analysis of your topic. Obviously, the more material or knowledge you have, the more possibilities will be available for a strong argument. For the sample assignment above, you’ll want to look at books and articles on World War II in general, and Spain’s neutrality in particular.

As you consider your options, you must decide to focus on one aspect of your topic. This means that you cannot include everything you’ve learned about your topic, nor should you go off in several directions. If you end up covering too many different aspects of a topic, your paper will sprawl and be unconvincing in its argument, and it most likely will not fulfull the assignment requirements.

For the sample assignment above, both Spain’s neutrality and World War II are topics far too broad to explore in a paper. You may instead decide to focus on Franco’s role in the diplomatic relationships between the Allies and the Axis , which narrows down what aspects of Spain’s neutrality and World War II you want to discuss, as well as establishes a specific link between those two aspects.

Before you go too far, however, ask yourself whether your topic is worthy of your efforts. Try to avoid topics that already have too much written about them (i.e., “eating disorders and body image among adolescent women”) or that simply are not important (i.e. “why I like ice cream”). These topics may lead to a thesis that is either dry fact or a weird claim that cannot be supported. A good thesis falls somewhere between the two extremes. To arrive at this point, ask yourself what is new, interesting, contestable, or controversial about your topic.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times . Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Derive a main point from topic

Once you have a topic, you will have to decide what the main point of your paper will be. This point, the “controlling idea,” becomes the core of your argument (thesis statement) and it is the unifying idea to which you will relate all your sub-theses. You can then turn this “controlling idea” into a purpose statement about what you intend to do in your paper.

Look for patterns in your evidence

Compose a purpose statement.

Consult the examples below for suggestions on how to look for patterns in your evidence and construct a purpose statement.

• Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis
• Franco turned to the Allies when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from the Axis

Possible conclusion:

Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: Franco’s desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power.

Purpose statement

This paper will analyze Franco’s diplomacy during World War II to see how it contributed to Spain’s neutrality.

• The simile compares Simoisius to a tree, which is a peaceful, natural image.
• The tree in the simile is chopped down to make wheels for a chariot, which is an object used in warfare.

At first, the simile seems to take the reader away from the world of warfare, but we end up back in that world by the end.

This paper will analyze the way the simile about Simoisius at 4.547-64 moves in and out of the world of warfare.

Derive purpose statement from topic

To find out what your “controlling idea” is, you have to examine and evaluate your evidence . As you consider your evidence, you may notice patterns emerging, data repeated in more than one source, or facts that favor one view more than another. These patterns or data may then lead you to some conclusions about your topic and suggest that you can successfully argue for one idea better than another.

For instance, you might find out that Franco first tried to negotiate with the Axis, but when he couldn’t get some concessions that he wanted from them, he turned to the Allies. As you read more about Franco’s decisions, you may conclude that Spain’s neutrality in WWII occurred for an entirely personal reason: his desire to preserve his own (and Spain’s) power. Based on this conclusion, you can then write a trial thesis statement to help you decide what material belongs in your paper.

Sometimes you won’t be able to find a focus or identify your “spin” or specific argument immediately. Like some writers, you might begin with a purpose statement just to get yourself going. A purpose statement is one or more sentences that announce your topic and indicate the structure of the paper but do not state the conclusions you have drawn . Thus, you might begin with something like this:

• This paper will look at modern language to see if it reflects male dominance or female oppression.
• I plan to analyze anger and derision in offensive language to see if they represent a challenge of society’s authority.

At some point, you can turn a purpose statement into a thesis statement. As you think and write about your topic, you can restrict, clarify, and refine your argument, crafting your thesis statement to reflect your thinking.

As you work on your thesis, remember to keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Sometimes your thesis needs to evolve as you develop new insights, find new evidence, or take a different approach to your topic.

Compose a draft thesis statement

If you are writing a paper that will have an argumentative thesis and are having trouble getting started, the techniques in the table below may help you develop a temporary or “working” thesis statement.

Begin with a purpose statement that you will later turn into a thesis statement.

Assignment: Discuss the history of the Reform Party and explain its influence on the 1990 presidential and Congressional election.

Purpose Statement: This paper briefly sketches the history of the grassroots, conservative, Perot-led Reform Party and analyzes how it influenced the economic and social ideologies of the two mainstream parties.

Question-to-Assertion

If your assignment asks a specific question(s), turn the question(s) into an assertion and give reasons why it is true or reasons for your opinion.

Assignment : What do Aylmer and Rappaccini have to be proud of? Why aren’t they satisfied with these things? How does pride, as demonstrated in “The Birthmark” and “Rappaccini’s Daughter,” lead to unexpected problems?

Beginning thesis statement: Alymer and Rappaccinni are proud of their great knowledge; however, they are also very greedy and are driven to use their knowledge to alter some aspect of nature as a test of their ability. Evil results when they try to “play God.”

Write a sentence that summarizes the main idea of the essay you plan to write.

Main idea: The reason some toys succeed in the market is that they appeal to the consumers’ sense of the ridiculous and their basic desire to laugh at themselves.

Make a list of the ideas that you want to include; consider the ideas and try to group them.

• nature = peaceful
• war matériel = violent (competes with 1?)
• need for time and space to mourn the dead
• war is inescapable (competes with 3?)

Use a formula to arrive at a working thesis statement (you will revise this later).

• although most readers of _______ have argued that _______, closer examination shows that _______.
• _______ uses _______ and _____ to prove that ________.
• phenomenon x is a result of the combination of __________, __________, and _________.

What to keep in mind as you draft an initial thesis statement

Beginning statements obtained through the methods illustrated above can serve as a framework for planning or drafting your paper, but remember they’re not yet the specific, argumentative thesis you want for the final version of your paper. In fact, in its first stages, a thesis statement usually is ill-formed or rough and serves only as a planning tool.

As you write, you may discover evidence that does not fit your temporary or “working” thesis. Or you may reach deeper insights about your topic as you do more research, and you will find that your thesis statement has to be more complicated to match the evidence that you want to use.

You must be willing to reject or omit some evidence in order to keep your paper cohesive and your reader focused. Or you may have to revise your thesis to match the evidence and insights that you want to discuss. Read your draft carefully, noting the conclusions you have drawn and the major ideas which support or prove those conclusions. These will be the elements of your final thesis statement.

Sometimes you will not be able to identify these elements in your early drafts, but as you consider how your argument is developing and how your evidence supports your main idea, ask yourself, “ What is the main point that I want to prove/discuss? ” and “ How will I convince the reader that this is true? ” When you can answer these questions, then you can begin to refine the thesis statement.

Refine and polish the thesis statement

To get to your final thesis, you’ll need to refine your draft thesis so that it’s specific and arguable.

• Ask if your draft thesis addresses the assignment
• Question each part of your draft thesis
• Clarify vague phrases and assertions
• Investigate alternatives to your draft thesis

Consult the example below for suggestions on how to refine your draft thesis statement.

Sample Assignment

Choose an activity and define it as a symbol of American culture. Your essay should cause the reader to think critically about the society which produces and enjoys that activity.

• Ask The phenomenon of drive-in facilities is an interesting symbol of american culture, and these facilities demonstrate significant characteristics of our society.This statement does not fulfill the assignment because it does not require the reader to think critically about society.

Drive-ins are an interesting symbol of American culture because they represent Americans’ significant creativity and business ingenuity.

Among the types of drive-in facilities familiar during the twentieth century, drive-in movie theaters best represent American creativity, not merely because they were the forerunner of later drive-ins and drive-throughs, but because of their impact on our culture: they changed our relationship to the automobile, changed the way people experienced movies, and changed movie-going into a family activity.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast-food establishments, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize America’s economic ingenuity, they also have affected our personal standards.

While drive-in facilities such as those at fast- food restaurants, banks, pharmacies, and dry cleaners symbolize (1) Americans’ business ingenuity, they also have contributed (2) to an increasing homogenization of our culture, (3) a willingness to depersonalize relationships with others, and (4) a tendency to sacrifice quality for convenience.

This statement is now specific and fulfills all parts of the assignment. This version, like any good thesis, is not self-evident; its points, 1-4, will have to be proven with evidence in the body of the paper. The numbers in this statement indicate the order in which the points will be presented. Depending on the length of the paper, there could be one paragraph for each numbered item or there could be blocks of paragraph for even pages for each one.

Complete the final thesis statement

The bottom line.

As you move through the process of crafting a thesis, you’ll need to remember four things:

• Context matters! Think about your course materials and lectures. Try to relate your thesis to the ideas your instructor is discussing.
• As you go through the process described in this section, always keep your assignment in mind . You will be more successful when your thesis (and paper) responds to the assignment than if it argues a semi-related idea.
• Your thesis statement should be precise, focused, and contestable ; it should predict the sub-theses or blocks of information that you will use to prove your argument.
• Make sure that you keep the rest of your paper in mind at all times. Change your thesis as your paper evolves, because you do not want your thesis to promise more than your paper actually delivers.

In the beginning, the thesis statement was a tool to help you sharpen your focus, limit material and establish the paper’s purpose. When your paper is finished, however, the thesis statement becomes a tool for your reader. It tells the reader what you have learned about your topic and what evidence led you to your conclusion. It keeps the reader on track–well able to understand and appreciate your argument.

Writing Process and Structure

This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.

Getting Started with Your Paper

Interpreting Writing Assignments from Your Courses

Generating Ideas for

Creating an Argument

Thesis vs. Purpose Statements

Architecture of Arguments

Working with Sources

Quoting and Paraphrasing Sources

Using Literary Quotations

Citing Sources in Your Paper

Drafting Your Paper

Generating Ideas for Your Paper

Introductions

Paragraphing

Developing Strategic Transitions

Conclusions

Revising Your Paper

Peer Reviews

Reverse Outlines

Revising an Argumentative Paper

Revision Strategies for Longer Projects

Finishing Your Paper

Twelve Common Errors: An Editing Checklist

How to Proofread your Paper

Writing Collaboratively

Collaborative and Group Writing

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The ETD Process: How to Submit Your Final PDF

Programs with an etd requirement.

• College of Arts & Sciences
• Biology Ph.D.
• Chemistry Ph.D.
• Computer Science Ph.D.
• English Ph.D.
• Geography M.A.
• History Ph.D.
• International Studies Ph.D.
• Literary, Cultural, and Linguistic Studies Ph.D.
• Mathematics Ph.D.
• Philosophy M.A.
• Philosophy Ph.D.
• Physics Ph.D.
• Psychology M.S.
• Psychology Ph.D.
• Sociology M.A.
• Sociology Ph.D.

Optional (program offers thesis and non-thesis options)

• Anthropology M.A.
• Biology M.S.
• Chemistry M.S.
• Computer Science M.S.
• Criminology and Criminal Justice M.S.
• Global Health and Society M.A.
• History M.A.
• International Studies M.A.
• Latin American Studies M.A.
• Liberal Studies M.A.
• Physics M.S.
• Biomedical Engineering Ph.D.
• Chemical, Environmental, and Materials Engineering Ph.D.
• Civil Engineering Ph.D.
• Electrical and Computer Engineering Ph.D.
• Industrial Engineering Ph.D.
• Mechanical Engineering Ph.D.
• Architectural Engineering M.S.A.E.
• Biomedical Engineering M.S.B.E.
• Civil Engineering M.S.C.E.
• Electrical and Computer Engineering M.S.E.C.E.
• Industrial Engineering M.S.I.E.
• Mechanical Engineering M.S.M.E.
• Ocean Engineering M.S.O.E.
• Choral Conducting D.M.A.
• Composition D.M.A.
• Instrumental Conducting D.M.A.
• Instrumental Performance D.M.A.
• Instrumental Jazz Performance D.M.A.
• Jazz Composition D.M.A.
• Keyboard Performance D.M.A.
• Keyboard Performance and Pedagogy D.M.A.
• Multiple Woodwinds D.M.A.
• Music Education Ph.D.
• Musicology M.M.
• Vocal Jazz Performance D.M.A.
• Vocal Pedagogy and Performance D.M.A.
• Vocal Performance D.M.A.
• Music Education M.M.
• Music Therapy M.M.
• Music Therapy with Undergraduate Equivalency M.M.
• Business Ph.D.
• Economics Ph.D.
• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (Executive program) Ph.D.
• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Ph.D.
• Biostatistics Ph.D. 
• Cancer Biology Ph.D.
• Cellular Physiology and Molecular Biophysics Ph.D.
• Climate and Health M.S.
• Epidemiology Ph.D.
• Human Genetics and Genomics Ph.D.
• Microbiology and Immunology Ph.D.
• Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology Ph.D.
• Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology Ph.D.
• Neuroscience Ph.D.
• Physical Therapy Ph.D.
• Prevention Science and Community Health Ph.D.
• Prevention Science and Community Health M.S.
• Public Health M.S.P.H.
• Skin Biology and Dermatological Science M.S.
• Architecture: Architecture Studies Track M.S. Arch. 
• Communication Ph.D.
• Communication for Global Social Change M.A.
• Communication Studies M.A.
• Public Relations M.A. 
• Community Well-Being Ph.D.
• Counseling Psychology Ph.D.
• Exercise Physiology Ph.D.
• Higher Education Leadership Ed.D.
• Research, Measurement, and Evaluation Ph.D.
• Teaching and Learning Ph.D.
• Community and Social Change M.S.Ed. 
• Nursing Science Ph.D.
• Applied Marine Physics Ph.D.
• Atmospheric Sciences M.S.
• Atmospheric Sciences Ph.D.
• Environmental Science and Policy Ph.D. 
• Marine Biology and Ecology M.S.
• Marine Biology and Ecology Ph.D.
• Marine Ecosystems and Society M.S.
• Marine Ecosystems and Society Ph.D.
• Marine Geosciences M.S.
• Marine Geosciences Ph.D.
• Meteorology and Physical Oceanography M.S.
• Meteorology and Physical Oceanography Ph.D.
• Ocean Sciences M.S.
• Ocean Sciences Ph.D.
• Environment, Culture, and Media M.A.

Please connect with your advisor or Graduate Program Director before beginning the ETD Process.

How to Submit Your Final PDF

Submitting your final electronic thesis or dissertation (ETD) to the Graduate School involves managing deadlines and many details, so knowing ahead of time what to expect can help you plan and make the process easier to navigate.

A summary of how to submit your ETD to the Graduate School can be found in the PDF titled " The Electronic Thesis and Dissertation (ETD) Process . "  Please download and print out this guide for future reference. Here are the basics:

I. FORMATTING REVIEWS

Your final PDF must be formatted per Graduate School formatting requirements. Those formatting requirements can be downloaded and printed from  here . You can send your draft to the Sr. Editor for formatting reviews by e-mail at [email protected] , as a PDF (preferred) or in up to four separate Word files. If the file is too large to send by e-mail, please send the Sr. Editor a link to the document in Dropbox or other cloud storage provider. The Sr. Editor will review the draft and send comments for formatting revisions back to you via e-mail. Predefense draft reviews are optional. Please note the deadlines for draft reviews posted here .

II. THREE SIGNED FORMS ARE REQUIRED  

The following three forms are required to complete every thesis or dissertation submitted to the Graduate School: the Certificate of Defense Approval form, ETD Final Content Approval form, and ETD Availability Agreement form. Each form must be e-signed by all required signees and received by the Graduate School before the student will be given permission to upload the final PDF in the Scholarship@Miami  institutional repository. The Sr. Editor will check to confirm the three forms are on file at the Graduate School before sending the permission-to-upload e-mail(s) to the student. All signatures on the three forms are collected electronically via the Dynamic Forms system; the student initiates and manages the completion of the three forms.

(1) Certificate of Defense Approval Form : Prepare this form the day after your defense. The Certificate of Defense Approval can be accessed in the  Forms section of our website. Fill in the name and e-mail address of each of your committee members and the Graduate Program Director. Each committee member will receive notification that they must electronically sign the form to confirm your successful defense of the thesis, dissertation, doctoral essay, or lecture recital essay after you have defended. This form, when electronically signed by all committee members and your Graduate Program Director, is your proof that you passed the defense. Signees should sign the form after the defense has taken place.

(2) Electronic Thesis and Dissertation (ETD) Final Content Approval Form : (NOTE: The ETD Final Content Approval form replaces the function of the signed hard copy of the Signature page from the thesis or dissertation, which previously was collected to document the committee's approval of the final content of the ETD.) Every thesis, dissertation, doctoral essay, or lecture recital essay must have the final content approved by each member of the committee. The ETD Final Content Approval Form documents the committee's approval of the final content of your document. You can access the form here  in the Graduate School's  Forms section. Fill in the name and e-mail address of each of your committee members and Graduate Program Director. Each committee member will receive notification that they must electronically sign the form to confirm their approval of the final thesis, dissertation, doctoral essay, or lecture recital essay. This form, when electronically signed by all committee members will transmit to your Graduate Program Director. When signed by all required individuals, the form is your proof that the committee approved the final document.

(3)  Electronic Thesis and Dissertation (ETD) Availability Agreement Form : This form informs the Graduate School of the online availability option you and your main advisor selected for your final PDF online. When you've produced a final PDF that's been approved by the Sr. Editor, you should discuss with your main advisor which online availability option to select for your thesis or dissertation before completing this form. The two  availability options are (1) Open Access and (2) Embargo. When you and your main advisor have agreed upon an online availability option, please access the form on the Graduate School website  here . Fill in your name and e-mail address and the main advisor's name and e-mail address so you can both e-sign the form.

III. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

The following resources are available to help you prepare your document:

Visit the  SCHOLARSHIP@MIAMI  Institutional Repository

When preparing your ETD, it can be helpful to go to the Scholarship@Miami  institutional repository to see what a final, accepted thesis or dissertation looks like and how information about you and your work will appear online. This is the ETD database in which your final document will be housed.

UM Libraries: Research and Document Support                              

(1)    Research: Subject Librarians and free resources for managing your research , e.g., EndNote (desktop) and RefWorks (web).

(2)    Document Assistance: Microsoft Word Assistance, Image formatting, final PDF conversion .                     

Digital formatting support for Microsoft Word (versions 2003, 2007, 2008, 2010).

• Web: Electronic Theses & Dissertations Formatting Support .

 (3)    lynda.com : Access to online video tutorials on lynda.com .                                         

Writing Center : Writing Assistance from Start to Finish                             

• Free, one-on-one tutoring service. Weekly appointments available with the same tutor. Make/cancel appointments online.
• Tutors use the teaching model to help students understand and identify common writing mistakes.
• Assistance with all kinds of writing (all topics, disciplines, and types of documents).
• Assistance with every stage of writing (planning, writing, revising).              
• Web: Writing Center
• Contact: Richter Library, first floor Learning Commons ; e-mail: [email protected] ; (305) 284-2956.

Graduate Writing Retreat : Multi-day writing support session

• Open to Master's and doctoral students by application
• Three sessions are offered: Fall and Spring semester during mid-semester recess, and before Summer semester begins.
• e-mail [email protected]

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Thesis & dissertation.

  Understanding Deadlines and Requirements

The final requirement in earning a graduate degree is the completion and defense of the master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation. Understanding the steps and associated deadlines in the thesis/dissertation submission and degree conferral process is necessary to establish a successful plan and realistic timeframe.

2024 Thesis/Dissertation Submission to the Graduate School Deadlines:

• For May 26, 2024 conferral, deadline is May 1.
• For August 31, 2024 conferral, deadline is August 1.
• December 31, 2024 conferral, deadline is December 1.

See our  Planning Timeline  for more detailed information.

  Writing Your Thesis/Dissertation

The Graduate School offers several writing resources to help you get started, meet your goals, and complete your thesis/dissertation on time. 

Before You Begin:

• Guide to Writing Your Thesis/Dissertation
• Fields Permitting the Use of Papers Option
• Required Sections, Guidelines, and Suggestions
• Formatting Requirements
• Fair Use, Copyright, Patent, and Publishing Options

Resources for Writing:

• Thesis & Dissertation Templates
• Writing from A to B

  Scheduling and Taking Your Final Exam

Once you have submitted your draft thesis/dissertation to your committee you are ready to defend. This involves scheduling and taking your final exam (“B” exam), an oral exam/dissertation defense for Ph.D. candidates, or (“M” exam), an oral exam/thesis defense for Master’s candidates.

• About Exams
• Defending Your Thesis or Dissertation
• Taking Exams

 Submitting Your Thesis/Dissertation

Policy requires the thesis/dissertation be submitted within 60 days of the final exam. The Graduate School uses a service called ProQuest to administer the electronic thesis/dissertation (ETD) submission and committee approval process. Once you have made any necessary revisions and the thesis/dissertation is final, you are ready to begin the approval and submission process.

Before initiating the submission process, students are required to complete an ORCID iD and complete the Survey of Earned Doctorates.

• Open Researcher and Contributor ID (ORCID iD)
• Survey of Earned Doctorates 
• Thesis & Dissertation Submission Process
• Submission Fees
• Graduation Requirements 

Final Thesis Statement

Ai generator.

Crafting a compelling final thesis statement is an essential aspect of academic writing, encapsulating the core argument and purpose of your research. This concise yet potent sentence serves as a roadmap for your readers, guiding them through your paper’s key ideas. In this guide, we’ll explore exemplary final thesis statement examples, break down the art of constructing one step by step, and offer valuable tips to ensure your thesis statement effectively captures the essence of your work.

What is a Final Thesis Statement? – Definition

A final thesis statement is a concise and assertive sentence that appears at the end of the introductory paragraph of an academic paper or essay. It serves as a clear and focused declaration of the main argument or point that the writer intends to prove or discuss throughout the rest of the paper. This statement provides a roadmap for readers, outlining the scope and direction of the paper’s content.

What is an example of a Final thesis statement?

“Increasing access to quality education in underserved communities positively impacts long-term economic development by empowering individuals with skills, fostering innovation, and reducing socioeconomic disparities.”

In this example, the final thesis statement clearly presents the main topic (increasing access to education) and the key points that will be discussed (economic development, skills empowerment, innovation, and reducing disparities).

100 Final Thesis Statement Examples

Size: 550 KB

1. Climate Change and Coastal Ecosystems: Rising temperatures imperil coastal ecosystems. This thesis emphasizes sustainable conservation to protect biodiversity and coastal communities from climate change.

2. Mental Health Portrayal in Contemporary Literature: Modern literature redefines mental health narratives. This thesis explores how portrayals destigmatize disorders, offering nuanced insights into psychological complexities.

3. Social Media and Adolescent Self-Perception: Social media distorts self-worth among teens. This thesis underscores the need for education addressing media literacy and emotional resilience.

4. Automation, AI, and Workforce Evolution: Automation and AI reshape industries. This thesis advocates educational reforms for adaptable skills crucial in an evolving job landscape.

5. Historical Roots of Systemic Racism: Systemic racism’s historical origins persist. This thesis addresses ongoing responsibilities to combat racial inequalities through comprehensive social changes.

6. Fusion of Traditional and Digital Art: Art merges tradition and technology. This thesis explores how blending mediums creates novel expressions, reshaping perceptions of aesthetics.

7. Sustainable Urban Planning for the Future: Urban growth strains resources. This thesis underscores sustainable urban planning as crucial to mitigate environmental and social challenges.

8. Genetic Engineering: Ethics and Progress: Genetic engineering sparks ethical debates. This thesis examines balancing medical advancements with human autonomy and ecological diversity.

9. Global Health Security and Preparedness: Pandemics transcend borders. This thesis advocates international collaboration and readiness to minimize health crises’ impacts.

10. Empowering Women in STEM Fields: Gender equality fuels STEM innovation. This thesis promotes breaking barriers and fostering opportunities for women in science and technology.

11. Literature’s Role in Driving Social Change: Literature influences cultural shifts. This thesis explores how written works catalyze transformative changes in attitudes and societal norms.

12. Digital Privacy Amid Information Sharing: Data protection in a digital era. This thesis analyzes the balance between convenience and safeguarding personal information.

13. Cultural Diversity’s Impact on Global Business: Cultural diversity propels global commerce. This thesis examines embracing differences for effective international relations and strategies.

14. Alternative Energy and Environmental Sustainability: Renewable energy combats climate change. This thesis evaluates its potential to mitigate environmental degradation and reduce fossil fuel dependency.

15. Education’s Crucial Role in Poverty Alleviation: Education breaks the cycle of poverty. This thesis investigates its significance in skill development, community upliftment, and reducing disparities.

16. Psychological Effects of Virtual Reality: Virtual reality’s mental impact grows. This thesis probes its influence on mental health, cognitive function, and emotional well-being.

17. Ethics in AI and Autonomous Systems: AI’s ethical quandaries demand attention. This thesis delves into ensuring responsible and just use of AI and autonomous technologies.

18. Early Childhood Education’s Long-Term Benefits: Early education reaps lifelong rewards. This thesis highlights cognitive, social, and academic advantages, advocating for its prioritization.

19. Cultural Identity Amid Globalization: Cultural identity in a globalized world. This thesis explores how individuals navigate multicultural influences, shaping their sense of self.

20. Resource Depletion and Conservation Strategies: Natural resource depletion prompts action. This thesis underscores the urgency for sustainable practices to preserve Earth’s resources.

21. Technology’s Impact on Human Relationships: Technology reshapes interpersonal dynamics. This thesis delves into how digital communication affects relationships, from intimacy to social connections.

22. Bioethics and Genetic Manipulation: Genetic manipulation raises ethical questions. This thesis explores navigating the ethical landscape while harnessing genetic advancements for medical progress.

23. Urbanization and Public Health Challenges: Urban growth poses health risks. This thesis investigates strategies for sustainable urban development that prioritize public well-being.

24. Effects of Media on Body Image Perception: Media shapes body image ideals. This thesis examines media’s influence on self-perception and advocates for promoting healthy body images.

25. Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: AI transforms medical practices. This thesis explores AI’s potential to revolutionize diagnostics, treatment, and patient care in the healthcare sector.

26. Education Reform and Digital Learning: Digital learning reshapes education. This thesis analyzes the role of technology in transforming traditional educational approaches and improving learning outcomes.

27. Political Polarization and Social Media: Social media drives political division. This thesis explores the relationship between online platforms and the increasing polarization of political ideologies.

28. Cybersecurity and Protecting Digital Assets: Digital assets face security threats. This thesis delves into the importance of cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive information in a digital age.

29. Cultural Appropriation and Creative Expression: Cultural appropriation sparks debates. This thesis explores the fine line between appreciating and appropriating cultural elements in artistic and creative contexts.

30. Aging Population and Healthcare Systems: An aging population strains healthcare. This thesis examines how healthcare systems can adapt to meet the unique needs of elderly citizens.

31. Social Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development: Social entrepreneurship drives sustainability. This thesis explores how innovative business models address social and environmental challenges for lasting impact.

32. Digital Divide and Access to Technology: Digital access remains unequal. This thesis addresses the divide between technology haves and have-nots and advocates for bridging the gap.

33. Mass Media’s Influence on Political Opinion: Mass media shapes political beliefs. This thesis examines how media outlets impact public perception and influence political decision-making.

34. Space Exploration and Technological Advancements: Space exploration fuels innovation. This thesis explores how advancements in space technology drive progress across various industries on Earth.

35. Globalization and Cultural Homogenization: Globalization affects cultural diversity. This thesis investigates the tension between increased interconnectedness and the preservation of unique cultural identities.

36. Mental Health Interventions in Schools: Schools play a role in mental health. This thesis discusses strategies for integrating mental health support within educational systems to benefit students.

37. Online Education and Traditional Learning: Online education redefines learning. This thesis compares the advantages and disadvantages of online and traditional classroom-based education.

38. Impact of Social Media on Political Activism: Social media shapes political movements. This thesis explores how online platforms mobilize activism and influence social and political change.

39. Renewable Energy and Climate Change Mitigation: Renewable energy combats climate crisis. This thesis evaluates the role of sustainable energy sources in mitigating climate change’s effects.

40. Gender Stereotypes in Media Representation: Media reinforces gender stereotypes. This thesis examines how media portrayal impacts societal expectations and perceptions of gender roles.

41. Digital Addiction and Screen Time Impact: Digital addiction affects well-being. This thesis examines the consequences of excessive screen time and advocates for balanced digital engagement.

42. Environmental Conservation and Indigenous Knowledge: Indigenous knowledge supports conservation. This thesis explores the collaboration between traditional ecological wisdom and modern conservation efforts.

43. Online Privacy and Data Security: Online privacy faces threats. This thesis delves into the importance of safeguarding personal data in the digital age to prevent privacy breaches.

44. Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment: AI transforms job markets. This thesis discusses how automation and AI influence employment landscapes and the need for skill adaptability.

45. Mental Health Stigma and Media Representation: Media shapes mental health perception. This thesis explores how media can reduce stigma by portraying mental health struggles authentically.

46. Renewable Energy and Rural Development: Renewable energy empowers rural areas. This thesis analyzes how sustainable energy initiatives can stimulate economic growth and improve living conditions.

47. Ethics of Biotechnology and Genetic Modification: Biotechnology raises ethical concerns. This thesis examines the moral implications of genetic modification for both humans and ecosystems.

48. Social Media’s Influence on Political Participation: Social media drives political engagement. This thesis explores how online platforms mobilize citizens and amplify their participation in democratic processes.

49. Artificial Intelligence and Creative Industries: AI transforms creative fields. This thesis examines how artificial intelligence is reshaping creative processes and artistic expressions.

50. Education and Social Mobility: Education as a path to social mobility. This thesis discusses how quality education contributes to upward social mobility and reduces inequality.

51. Impacts of Digital Literacy on Society: Digital literacy shapes societies. This thesis explores the importance of digital literacy skills in promoting informed citizenship and equitable access to information.

52. Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security: Sustainable agriculture ensures food security. This thesis analyzes the connection between environmentally-friendly farming practices and global food supply.

53. Diversity and Inclusion in Corporate Culture: Diversity fosters inclusive workplaces. This thesis discusses the benefits of diverse work environments and strategies to promote inclusion in corporate culture.

54. Mental Health Interventions in Workplace Settings: Workplace mental health support matters. This thesis explores implementing interventions that enhance employee well-being and productivity.

55. Technological Innovation and Healthcare Accessibility: Innovation improves healthcare access. This thesis examines how technology expands medical services and narrows healthcare disparities.

56. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment Prevention: Digital spaces combat cyberbullying. This thesis explores strategies to prevent online harassment and create safer online environments.

57. Renewable Energy Integration into Grids: Renewable energy in power grids. This thesis evaluates the challenges and benefits of integrating renewable sources into existing energy infrastructures.

58. Climate Change Adaptation Strategies: Climate change demands adaptation. This thesis discusses strategies to cope with and mitigate the effects of a changing climate.

59. Media Influence on Consumer Behavior: Media shapes consumer choices. This thesis examines how media advertisements and information impact purchasing decisions and consumer trends.

60. Education and Environmental Awareness: Education drives environmental consciousness. This thesis explores the role of education in cultivating environmentally responsible behaviors and attitudes.

61. Artificial Intelligence and Education Enhancement: AI transforms learning experiences. This thesis delves into the integration of artificial intelligence to personalize education and improve student outcomes.

62. Wildlife Conservation and Ecosystem Preservation: Conservation safeguards ecosystems. This thesis explores the importance of protecting wildlife habitats for ecological balance and the survival of species.

63. Cybersecurity and Privacy in the Digital Age: Digital privacy under threat. This thesis examines the significance of robust cybersecurity measures to protect personal information in an interconnected world.

64. Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Social media’s mental health effects. This thesis investigates how online platforms influence psychological well-being and advocates for responsible usage.

65. Space Exploration and Technological Innovation: Space exploration drives progress. This thesis discusses how space missions fuel technological advancements with applications on Earth.

66. Accessibility and Inclusivity in Web Design: Inclusive web design matters. This thesis explores designing digital platforms to accommodate individuals with diverse abilities for equitable access.

67. Genetic Diversity and Conservation Biology: Genetic diversity crucial for conservation. This thesis highlights how preserving genetic variation supports species resilience and ecosystem health.

68. Social Media and Political Disinformation: Social media spreads misinformation. This thesis examines the role of online platforms in disseminating false information and its impact on public discourse.

69. Ethical Considerations in Artificial Intelligence: Ethics in AI development. This thesis explores the ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence technologies and the need for responsible implementation.

70. Education’s Role in Climate Change Awareness: Education for climate consciousness. This thesis discusses integrating climate change education to foster informed citizenship and sustainable practices.

71. Sustainable Transportation Solutions: Transportation’s environmental impact. This thesis explores sustainable alternatives to traditional transportation modes to reduce carbon emissions.

72. Media Influence on Consumer Culture: Media shapes consumer lifestyles. This thesis examines how media representations influence cultural norms and consumer behavior patterns.

73. Mental Health Support in Marginalized Communities: Marginalized populations and mental health. This thesis advocates for tailored mental health interventions to address the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities.

74. Robotics and Future Labor Market Dynamics: Robotics and job markets. This thesis analyzes how automation impacts employment sectors and the need for retraining programs.

75. Eco-Friendly Building Design and Sustainability: Building design for sustainability. This thesis discusses eco-friendly architectural practices that minimize environmental impact and promote energy efficiency.

76. Social Media and Civic Engagement: Social media and civic participation. This thesis explores how online platforms facilitate engagement in social and political issues.

77. Urban Agriculture and Food Security: Urban farming and nutrition. This thesis investigates the role of urban agriculture in enhancing food security and promoting local sustainable practices.

78. Artificial Intelligence and Healthcare Diagnosis: AI’s role in medical diagnostics. This thesis evaluates the potential of artificial intelligence to enhance accuracy and efficiency in medical diagnosis.

79. Green Technology and Environmental Conservation: Green tech for conservation. This thesis examines how innovative technologies contribute to environmental protection and resource sustainability.

80. Education for Global Citizenship: Global citizenship through education. This thesis advocates for educational curricula that foster cultural understanding, empathy, and responsible global citizenship.

81. E-Waste Management and Environmental Impact: E-waste’s ecological consequences. This thesis explores strategies for managing electronic waste to minimize environmental harm and promote recycling.

82. Social Media and Youth Activism: Social media’s role in activism. This thesis examines how online platforms empower youth to advocate for social and political change.

83. Sustainable Fashion and Ethical Consumerism: Ethical fashion choices matter. This thesis discusses the importance of sustainable fashion practices in promoting ethical consumer behavior.

84. Artificial Intelligence in Criminal Justice: AI in law enforcement. This thesis explores the benefits and ethical concerns of using artificial intelligence in criminal justice systems.

85. Community Gardens and Urban Resilience: Community gardens enhance resilience. This thesis highlights the role of urban gardens in strengthening communities and promoting sustainable living.

86. Media Literacy Education in the Digital Age: Media literacy’s relevance today. This thesis discusses the importance of teaching critical media consumption skills to navigate the digital landscape.

87. Biodiversity Loss and Ecosystem Health: Biodiversity’s importance for ecosystems. This thesis explores the consequences of biodiversity loss on ecosystem stability and resilience.

88. Social Media’s Impact on Body Image: Social media and body perception. This thesis investigates how online platforms influence body image ideals and self-esteem.

89. Urbanization and Cultural Preservation: Urbanization and cultural heritage. This thesis examines the challenges of preserving cultural identities amidst rapid urban growth.

90. Artificial Intelligence and Ethics in Warfare: AI’s role in military ethics. This thesis delves into the ethical implications of integrating artificial intelligence into modern warfare.

91. Renewable Energy and Economic Development: Sustainable energy and economies. This thesis analyzes how renewable energy initiatives contribute to economic growth and job creation.

92. Media Framing and Public Opinion: Media’s framing of news. This thesis explores how media coverage shapes public perceptions and attitudes on various issues.

93. Green Infrastructure and Urban Sustainability: Green infrastructure in cities. This thesis discusses the benefits of integrating natural elements into urban design for sustainable and resilient cities.

94. Cybersecurity and National Security: Digital security and nations. This thesis examines the intersection of cybersecurity measures and national security strategies.

95. Education and Gender Equality: Education empowers women. This thesis advocates for educational initiatives that promote gender equality and empower women worldwide.

96. Urbanization and Health Disparities: Urbanization’s health impacts. This thesis explores how rapid urban growth contributes to health inequalities and suggests interventions for improvement.

97. Artificial Intelligence in Language Translation: AI’s impact on language barriers. This thesis evaluates the effectiveness of artificial intelligence in breaking down language barriers through translation technology.

98. Sustainable Tourism and Cultural Preservation: Tourism and cultural heritage. This thesis discusses responsible tourism practices that support cultural preservation and benefit local communities.

99. Media Influence on Political Polarization: Media’s role in polarization. This thesis explores how media narratives contribute to the widening divide in political ideologies.

100. Education for Environmental Stewardship: Environmental stewardship through education. This thesis advocates for educational programs that foster environmental awareness and responsibility.

These examples encapsulate a diverse array of research topics and areas, showcasing the versatility of thesis statements in various academic disciplines and contexts.

Final Thesis Statement Examples for Research Paper

A research paper’s thesis statements define the scope of inquiry. They concisely state the main argument or investigation focus, guiding readers through the study’s core ideas and discoveries.

• Addressing the mental health stigma, this research paper explores how media portrayals contribute to negative perceptions, emphasizing the need for accurate representation and increased public awareness.
• This research paper analyzes the impact of urban green spaces on mental well-being, revealing how proximity to nature positively influences psychological health and underscores the importance of urban planning.
• Exploring renewable energy integration in developing nations, this research paper examines the challenges and opportunities of transitioning to sustainable energy sources to address both environmental and economic goals.
• Investigating the effects of social media on political polarization, this research paper delves into echo chambers, algorithms, and their role in reinforcing ideological divisions within online communities.
• Examining the genetic basis of rare diseases, this research paper discusses how advancements in genomics contribute to diagnosis, treatment, and the potential for personalized medicine.
• This research paper explores the ethical considerations surrounding artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles, analyzing the implications of decision-making algorithms in situations with moral dilemmas.
• Assessing the relationship between music therapy and cognitive improvement in Alzheimer’s patients, this research paper demonstrates how music interventions can enhance memory and quality of life.
• Investigating the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems, this research paper discusses the interconnectedness of ocean health, coral bleaching, and the urgent need for conservation.
• This research paper examines the economic impact of globalization on labor markets, analyzing how outsourcing and offshoring practices influence job opportunities and wage disparities.
• Exploring the role of empathy in reducing cyberbullying, this research paper investigates the effectiveness of empathy-based interventions in promoting online civility and preventing digital harassment.

Final Thesis Statement Examples for Personal Essay

Personal essays reveal unique experiences. Their final thesis statements for personal essay encapsulate the author’s viewpoint and central message, guiding the narrative while inviting readers to share in their personal insights.

• My journey through overcoming social anxiety unravels the complexities of mental health, highlighting the importance of seeking support and embracing personal growth.
• Reflecting on my cultural heritage, this personal essay explores how traditions and values shape my identity, connecting me to my roots while navigating a diverse world.
• The transformative power of travel unfolds in my personal essay as I recount a solo backpacking adventure that reshaped my perspectives and ignited a thirst for exploration.
• In this personal essay, I delve into my struggle with body image, detailing how media portrayals affected my self-esteem and the steps I took to foster self-acceptance.
• A near-death experience taught me valuable life lessons, as detailed in this personal essay, revealing the fragility of existence and inspiring a newfound appreciation for every moment.
• Through the lens of a challenging friendship, my personal essay unravels the dynamics of loyalty, betrayal, and the lessons learned from navigating complex relationships.
• This personal essay recounts my volunteering experience in a local shelter, shedding light on the rewards of selflessness and the profound impact of helping others.
• Embracing change as a constant, my personal essay chronicles my journey through various career shifts, illustrating the resilience required to adapt and thrive in an evolving world.
• Reflecting on my relationship with nature, this personal essay chronicles the solace and inspiration I find in the wilderness, showcasing how nature fuels my creativity and well-being.
• My personal essay shares the transformative power of literature in overcoming adversity, highlighting how stories provided solace, perspective, and the strength to overcome challenges.

Final Thesis Statement Examples for Argumentative Essay

Argumentative essays persuade readers. Their final thesis statements for argumentative essay assert a debatable stance, summarizing the core argument and providing a roadmap for the essay’s persuasive discourse.

• This argumentative essay advocates for stricter gun control policies, presenting statistical evidence of reduced gun violence in countries with stringent firearm regulations.
• Exploring the benefits of a universal basic income, this argumentative essay demonstrates how providing financial stability can stimulate economic growth, reduce poverty, and empower individuals.
• Presenting evidence of climate change’s human origins, this argumentative essay emphasizes the necessity of global cooperation and policy changes to combat environmental degradation.
• In this argumentative essay, the positive impact of standardized testing is debated, analyzing how such assessments contribute to educational accountability and performance improvement.
• Arguing for the adoption of renewable energy, this essay showcases the economic benefits of transitioning away from fossil fuels, from job creation to decreased reliance on imports.
• This argumentative essay discusses the value of arts education in schools, demonstrating how creative disciplines enhance critical thinking, empathy, and overall academic achievement.
• Debating the benefits and drawbacks of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), this argumentative essay examines how GMOs impact food security, health, and ecosystems.
• In this essay, the merits of online education versus traditional classroom learning are debated, exploring the accessibility, convenience, and quality of both approaches.
• Arguing for the importance of preserving indigenous languages, this essay highlights how language connects individuals to cultural heritage and fosters intergenerational bonds.
• Examining the effects of social media on adolescents, this argumentative essay evaluates the impact on mental health, self-esteem, and the role of responsible digital engagement.

Final Thesis Statement Examples for Narrative Essay

Narrative essays recount personal stories. Their final thesis statements for narrative essay capture the narrative’s essence, guiding readers into the essay’s events while reflecting the writer’s perspective.

• A heartwarming narrative essay recounts my journey of adopting a rescue dog, revealing how the bond formed between us brought healing and joy to our lives.
• Through my narrative essay, I relive the transformative summer I spent volunteering abroad, where I connected with new cultures, forged lasting friendships, and discovered my purpose.
• My narrative essay recounts the surreal experience of witnessing a meteor shower during a camping trip, capturing the beauty of the cosmos and my sense of wonder.
• In this narrative essay, I recall the challenges of starting a small business, sharing the lessons learned, the setbacks overcome, and the satisfaction of building something from scratch.
• The powerful narrative essay tells the story of my grandmother’s immigration journey, tracing her courage, sacrifices, and the legacy she instilled in our family.
• Through my narrative essay, I recount the exhilarating roller coaster ride that serves as a metaphor for life’s unpredictable twists, turns, and the thrill of embracing them.
• This narrative essay chronicles my experience facing stage fright during a school presentation, illustrating the growth that emerged from confronting my fears head-on.
• In this reflective narrative essay, I revisit a childhood memory of baking with my grandmother, revealing the cherished lessons passed down through generations.
• My narrative essay depicts the cross-country road trip that exposed me to diverse landscapes, cultures, and the realization that adventure and self-discovery await outside comfort zones.
• Through the lens of a serendipitous encounter, my narrative essay unfolds the tale of a chance meeting that led to a meaningful connection, underscoring the beauty of human interaction.

Final Thesis Statement Examples in Literature

Literary analyses delve into texts. Their final thesis statements dissect themes, characters, or literary devices, providing an interpretive lens that guides readers through the intricacies of the work.

• In Franz Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis,” Gregor Samsa’s transformation into an insect symbolizes the dehumanizing effects of modernity and societal alienation.
• Through the lens of symbolism, William Golding’s “Lord of the Flies” depicts the descent into savagery, exploring the inherent duality of human nature.
• In George Orwell’s “1984,” the omnipresent government surveillance serves as a cautionary tale about totalitarianism, highlighting the erosion of individual freedom.
• Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway” employs stream of consciousness to delve into the inner lives of characters, revealing the complexities of human consciousness.
• In Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” the mockingbird motif symbolizes innocence and empathy, serving as a poignant commentary on racial injustice.
• Emily Dickinson’s poems, characterized by their brevity and introspection, explore themes of mortality, nature, and the inner workings of the human psyche.
• Toni Morrison’s “Beloved” employs magical realism to explore the traumatic legacy of slavery, offering a unique perspective on historical trauma and healing.
• F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” critiques the American Dream, depicting the emptiness and moral decay lurking beneath the pursuit of wealth and status.
• Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” delves into the psychological complexity of its titular character, grappling with themes of revenge, madness, and existential contemplation.
• Gabriel García Márquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude” utilizes magical realism to explore the interplay between reality and imagination, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories.

Final Thesis Statement Examples for Technology Topics

Technology-focused theses explore innovations. Their final thesis statements topics introduce the technological subject matter and highlight the intended analysis or implications of advancements.

• This essay explores the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in autonomous vehicles, addressing the challenges of decision-making algorithms in morally complex scenarios.
• Analyzing the impact of virtual reality in education, this thesis discusses how immersive experiences enhance learning outcomes and foster engagement among students.
• Blockchain technology’s potential in securing online transactions is examined, highlighting its applications beyond cryptocurrency and its role in enhancing cybersecurity.
• Investigating the role of 3D printing in healthcare, this thesis explores how additive manufacturing revolutionizes medical devices, prosthetics, and personalized treatments.
• The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices into smart homes is explored, detailing the convenience, energy efficiency, and security enhancements they offer.
• Examining the dark side of social media algorithms, this thesis discusses the spread of misinformation, echo chambers, and the challenges of algorithmic content curation.
• This thesis analyzes the implications of biometric authentication, exploring the balance between convenience and privacy in adopting fingerprint, facial, and retinal recognition.
• The transformative potential of quantum computing is discussed, detailing how quantum bits (qubits) could revolutionize data processing, cryptography, and problem-solving.
• Exploring the future of wearable technology, this thesis investigates the merging of fashion and functionality, from smart clothing to health-monitoring wearables.
• This thesis examines the ethical considerations of gene editing using CRISPR-Cas9, addressing the potential for therapeutic applications as well as concerns of unintended consequences.

Final Thesis Statement Examples for Middle School

Middle school thesis statements simplify concepts. They concisely present topics or arguments, aiding young learners in organizing their thoughts and guiding their exploration of the subject.

• This essay explores the importance of mindfulness exercises in reducing stress and improving concentration among middle school students.
• The impact of video games on academic performance is investigated, analyzing the potential benefits of moderation and responsible gaming habits.
• This thesis discusses the benefits of community service projects for middle school students, from fostering empathy to building leadership skills.
• Exploring the history of civil rights movements, this essay emphasizes their relevance today and encourages middle school students to be advocates for equality.
• The value of reading diverse literature is highlighted, encouraging middle school students to explore books that broaden their understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
• This essay discusses the impact of social media on peer relationships, promoting healthy digital communication and responsible online behavior among middle school students.
• The importance of physical activity and its connection to academic success is explored, encouraging middle school students to prioritize exercise for overall well-being.
• Exploring the concept of environmental sustainability, this essay encourages middle school students to engage in eco-friendly practices and take ownership of protecting the planet.
• This thesis examines the benefits of learning a second language in middle school, from cognitive advantages to enhancing cross-cultural communication.
• The history and significance of Earth Day are discussed, inspiring middle school students to participate in activities that promote environmental awareness and conservation.

Final Thesis Statement Examples About Freedom

Freedom-themed theses explore autonomy. Their final thesis statements articulate perspectives on freedom’s definition, significance, or limits, driving discussions about personal liberties.

• This essay explores the multifaceted nature of freedom, delving into political, social, and personal dimensions and the responsibilities that come with it.
• Freedom of expression’s role in shaping democratic societies is discussed, emphasizing the need for protecting diverse viewpoints while maintaining civility and respect.
• This thesis analyzes the tension between individual freedom and collective well-being, examining the balance governments must strike to ensure public safety without infringing on liberties.
• The significance of freedom in artistic expression is explored, showcasing how creativity flourishes when artists are empowered to challenge norms and voice dissent.
• The struggles of marginalized communities in fighting for freedom and equality are highlighted, encouraging societal recognition of historical injustices and ongoing efforts for change.
• This essay examines the relationship between freedom and responsibility, emphasizing how individuals should exercise their liberties while considering the impact on others.
• The intersection of digital privacy and personal freedom is discussed, advocating for robust privacy protections in an increasingly interconnected and surveilled world.
• Freedom of religion’s importance is explored, discussing how societies must respect diverse faiths while safeguarding individuals’ rights to practice or not practice.
• This thesis delves into the freedom of the press and its role in holding institutions accountable, illustrating how a free press contributes to transparent governance.
• The notion of inner freedom and self-empowerment is discussed, emphasizing how individuals can liberate themselves from self-doubt and societal pressures to find fulfillment.

Final Thesis Statement Examples on Science Topics

Scientific theses probe natural phenomena. Their final thesis statements introduce research questions, theories, or discoveries, offering a glimpse into the inquiry’s purpose and direction.

• This essay explores the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems, detailing the effects of warming oceans, rising sea levels, and acidification on biodiversity.
• The potential benefits of gene editing using CRISPR-Cas9 are examined, discussing applications in medicine, agriculture, and the ethical considerations they entail.
• This thesis delves into the nature vs. nurture debate, investigating the interplay between genetic factors and environmental influences in shaping human traits.
• The role of vaccinations in public health is discussed, emphasizing the importance of herd immunity and dispelling misinformation surrounding vaccine safety.
• This thesis examines the process of evolution and natural selection, showcasing how species adapt to their environments over time through genetic variation.
• The scientific method’s significance in advancing knowledge is explored, highlighting its systematic approach to hypothesis testing, experimentation, and evidence-based conclusions.
• This essay discusses the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy, detailing how these elusive cosmic components shape the universe’s expansion and structure.
• The implications of artificial intelligence in medical diagnostics are analyzed, discussing how AI algorithms enhance accuracy and efficiency in disease detection.
• This thesis explores the principles of quantum mechanics, detailing phenomena like superposition and entanglement that challenge our classical understanding of reality.
• The concept of genetic engineering and its potential to address genetic disorders is examined, presenting the ethical considerations and medical breakthroughs it entails.

These examples cover a diverse range of topics and essay types, showcasing the versatility of thesis statements across different contexts and subject areas.

Difference Between a Final Thesis and a Working Thesis

A working thesis serves as an initial draft or a provisional idea that guides your research and writing process. It’s a preliminary statement that you create at the beginning of your project, subject to change as you gather more information and refine your arguments. Working theses are often broad and may not fully capture the nuances of your research.

A final thesis, on the other hand, is the polished, refined version of your working thesis that appears in the introduction of your paper. It’s the culmination of your research, analysis, and critical thinking. The final thesis succinctly conveys the main argument or point you’re making in your paper, and it is supported by evidence and well-structured analysis.  Our undergraduate thesis statement is also worth a look at

How to Write a Final Thesis Statement – Step by Step Guide

Writing a final thesis statement requires careful thought and planning. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a strong and effective final thesis statement:

Step 1: Understand Your Assignment and Topic:

• Read and understand your assignment prompt or research question.
• Familiarize yourself with the topic you’ll be addressing in your paper.

Step 2: Review Your Research and Analysis:

• Gather all your research materials and notes.
• Review the evidence, arguments, and analysis you’ve conducted.

Step 3: Craft a Working Thesis:

• Start by creating a working thesis that captures your preliminary understanding of the topic.
• This working thesis will serve as the foundation for your final thesis statement.

Step 4: Identify Your Main Argument:

• Reflect on your research and identify the main argument or point you want to make.
• Consider what you’ve learned from your research and how it has shaped your perspective.

Step 5: Make Your Thesis Specific:

• Refine your working thesis to be specific and focused on your main argument.
• Avoid vague or general statements that lack clarity.

Step 6: Ensure It’s Debatable:

• Your thesis should present an argument that is debatable and not just a statement of fact.
• It should invite discussion and analysis from your readers.

Step 7: Consider Counterarguments:

• Think about potential counterarguments to your thesis.
• Decide if you want to address these counterarguments directly in your thesis or leave them for the body of your paper.

Step 8: Provide a Roadmap:

• Your thesis should indicate the direction your paper will take.
• Mention the main points or themes you’ll be discussing in the body of your paper.

Step 9: Revise and Refine:

• Take time to revise and refine your thesis statement.
• Consider its clarity, specificity, and overall effectiveness.

Step 10: Seek Feedback:

• Share your thesis statement with peers, instructors, or mentors.
• Gather feedback and insights to help you further refine your statement.

Step 11: Align with Paper Structure:

• Ensure that your thesis statement aligns with the structure of your paper.
• Each paragraph should contribute to proving or supporting your thesis.

Step 12: Edit for Grammar and Clarity:

• Edit your thesis for grammar, punctuation, and clarity.
• Make sure it’s easy to understand and free of errors.

Step 13: Finalize Your Thesis:

• Once you’re satisfied with your thesis statement, consider it your final version.
• Use this statement as the guiding principle for your entire paper.

Step 14: Revisit After Writing:

• After completing your paper, revisit your thesis statement.
• Make sure it accurately reflects the content and findings of your paper.

Step 15: Proofread Your Final Paper:

• Before submitting your paper, proofread it for grammar, style, and consistency.
• Ensure that your final paper effectively supports and aligns with your thesis statement.

Remember that writing a strong final thesis statement is an iterative process. It might take several revisions to refine your statement to its strongest version. Taking the time to create a clear, focused, and arguable thesis statement will set the tone for the rest of your paper and help guide your readers through your arguments and analysis.  You may also be interested in our  education thesis statement .

Tips for Writing a Final Thesis Statement

• Be Clear and Concise: Your thesis statement should be a clear and concise reflection of your main argument. Avoid vague or convoluted language that might confuse your readers.
• Make It Debatable: A strong thesis is arguable and invites discussion. Avoid statements of fact; instead, present a claim that others could reasonably disagree with.
• Express a Strong Standpoint: Your thesis should clearly convey your stance on the topic. It’s the backbone of your paper, so ensure it’s impactful and thought-provoking.
• Stay Focused: Keep your thesis statement focused on a single main idea. Avoid trying to cover too many aspects or arguments in one sentence.
• Include Main Points: Briefly mention the main points or themes that your paper will explore. This provides your readers with a roadmap for what to expect.
• Revise and Refine: Crafting a strong thesis often requires multiple revisions. Don’t settle for the first version; keep refining until it accurately represents your argument.
• Tailor to Your Audience: Consider the expectations and knowledge level of your audience. Your thesis should engage and resonate with them.
• Consider Counterarguments: While not always necessary, addressing potential counterarguments can demonstrate your depth of understanding and strengthen your thesis.
• Reflect Your Paper’s Structure: Ensure that your thesis aligns with the structure of your paper. Each paragraph should contribute to supporting or proving your thesis.
• Use Precise Language: Choose your words carefully. Clear, specific, and impactful language enhances the strength of your thesis.
• Avoid Generic Statements: Steer clear of generic, overused phrases that lack substance. Instead, craft a statement that reflects your unique insights and perspective.
• Edit for Clarity: Your thesis should be easily understandable. Proofread it for grammatical errors and make sure it flows smoothly.
• Test for Relevance: After completing your paper, revisit your thesis. Make sure it remains relevant to the content and findings of your paper.
• Seek Feedback: Share your thesis with peers, professors, or mentors. Feedback from others can provide valuable insights for improvement.
• Practice Patience: Writing an impactful thesis takes time and reflection. Be patient with yourself as you work to create the strongest possible statement.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a final thesis statement that effectively encapsulates your argument, engages your readers, and sets the tone for a successful paper.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

Electronic Theses and Dissertations Submission

Submit your final thesis or dissertation by the posted submission  deadline .

Submission to the Graduate School must include:

• Thesis or Dissertation PDF electronically uploaded in ProQuest.
• Use this form if you have one major professor:  Thesis & Dissertation Approval and Publishing Options Form – 1 Major Professor  (PDF)  
• Use this form if you have two co-major professors:  Thesis & Dissertation Approval and Publishing Options Form —Two Major Professors  (PDF) .
• Complete the online Survey of Earned Doctorates (PhD students only)

Steps to Publish Your ETD

The process of submitting a thesis or dissertation electronically includes the following:

• Follow Graduate School Formatting Requirements .
• Write and save your document (MS Word, LaTeX, Pages, etc)
• Embedding the fonts.
• Converting your document to PDF format. You may need assistance in preparing a PDF for submission. ProQuest has a very helpful Resources & Guidelines site .
• Uploading the document to ProQuest.
• Ordering personal hard copies (optional).
• Registering the copyright through ProQuest with the Library of Congress (optional).
• Submission.
• ProQuest automatically sends you an e-mail confirming that your submission is complete. Keep for your records. It is your proof that you submitted online and before the deadline expired.
• ProQuest will then notify the UWM Graduate School of your submission.
• The Graduate School will review your document to make sure the formatting adheres to the above-mentioned Thesis & Dissertation Formatting Guidelines. The Graduate School will request necessary changes on your original work if required, and you will re-upload the revised document to ProQuest.
• When approved by the Graduate School, after your degree is awarded, your document will be submitted to ProQuest, who will log, index and publish your thesis or dissertation.
• The UWM Libraries provide free, long-term, full-text access to UWM ETDs on and off campus through UWM Digital Commons . They also receive a copy of the PDF file for access and archiving once the thesis or dissertation is submitted and approved by the Graduate School.

Your Thesis in UWM Digital Commons

After your submission to ProQuest, the UWM theses and dissertations are automatically published in the UWM Libraries’ Digital Commons . Digital Commons is the digital extension of the physical library. Historically, theses and dissertations were made available on a physical library shelf and, since the conversion to digital, theses and dissertations are now made available electronically. Your thesis or dissertation will be searchable by Google and other third-party apps through Digital Commons.

Publishing Options

By default, theses and dissertations by UWM students are made openly available via UWM Libraries’ Digital Commons . This means that they are available to read both inside and outside of UWM. Sharing your thesis or dissertation is an important part of obtaining a degree at UWM.

There are two ways to publish through ProQuest—traditional or open access.

• Open Access means free access to scholarly research. Some open access publications are also licensed for reuse, often via a Creative Commons license.
• Theses and dissertations can be made openly available for anyone to read via ProQuest for $95.
• Your thesis or dissertation will still be free to read via the UWM Libraries’ Digital Commons, whether or not you choose this option in ProQuest.
• Traditional Publishing Traditional Publishing makes your work available for purchase by others and enables you to receive royalties based on those purchases. However, the need for others to purchase your document means that it will not receive the widest possible dissemination. Your document is, however, listed in an online database. Those who choose not to purchase it have access online only to an extract consisting of the title page and the first few content pages.

There are two possible publishing options. You are responsible for one of the following:

• Open Access through the UWM Library: Free. Traditional publishing through ProQuest: Free.
• Open Access through the UWM Library: Free. Open Access Publishing through ProQuest: $95—paid to ProQuest at time of submission.

Embargoes (Delaying Publication)

While most dissertations will be published immediately after submission, in rare cases a student will need to delay the publication of their thesis. Such circumstances may involve:

• Disclosure of intellectual property that preclude patents rights.
• Disclosure of sensitive data about persons, institutions, or technologies that violate professional ethics regarding protection of confidentiality,
• An academic or commercial press has expressed interest in acquiring the rights to publish the work as a book. The works in creative writing are qualified for an embargo.
• A part of the content has already been submitted to a peer-reviewed journal that may require an embargo. Many journals consider each submission on a case-by-case basis. To clarify the policy consult with the journal editor.

When an exception is necessary, an embargo provides a temporary, delayed public release of the work.

Embargo periods of six months, one year, or two years are available. If needed, select the embargo option on both the Approval and Publishing Options form, as well as in the publishing options section in ProQuest.

Copyright is automatically generated when an author publishes his or her work. For theses and dissertations, a student includes the copyright notice in the contents of their thesis or dissertation, and then has copyright on the work after its publication.You may wish to register your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office in order to protect your rights in a dispute or to be compensated for damages caused by infringement. You can do this in one of two ways:

• You may register the copyright yourself by paying the registration fee ($35) and following the directions at: https://www.copyright.gov/registration/
• You may also designate ProQuest to act as your agent in registering the copyright by electing to do so during the submission process (the registration fee is $55).

For more information regarding copyright registration and the advantages, please visit the ProQuest site.

• Copyright and Your Dissertation or Thesis: Ownership, Fair Use, and Your Rights and Responsibilities (PDF)
• See also: The U.S. Copyright Office

Ordering Bound Copies

ProQuest can bind your document. Follow the directions at the ProQuest Website regarding their full range of binding options. You select the binding option you prefer at the “Order Copies” step of the submission process. Orders can be placed at the time of submission, or after publication.

ETD Submission PowerPoint

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Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering

Buchanan Engineering Building Rm. 213

Electrical & Computer Engineering University of Idaho 875 Perimeter Drive MS 1023 Moscow, ID 83844-1023

Phone: 208-885-6554

Fax: 208-885-7579

Email: [email protected]

Student Services

Email: [email protected]

M.S. Electrical Engineering

Career information is not specific to degree level. Some career options may require an advanced degree.

Current Job Openings and Salary Range

in ID, WA, OR, MT and HI

Entry-Level

Senior-Level

• Career Options
• Electrical Engineer
• Electronics Engineer, Except Computer
• Microsystems Engineer
• Nanosystems Engineer
• Solar Energy Systems Engineer
• Electro-Mechanical Technician

Regional Employment Trends

Employment trends and projected job growth in ID, WA, OR, MT & HI

*Job data is collected from national, state and private sources. For more information, visit EMSI's data sources page .

• Degree Prep

View the M.S. Electrical Engineering prerequisites, deadlines and contact information on the U of I Admissions website .

• Most applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or closely related field from an accredited institution and demonstrate proficiency in chemistry, physics and mathematics.
• If your undergraduate degree is not in Electrical Engineering, you may be required to complete background courses to remove deficiencies before beginning the graduate program.
• Degree Roadmap
• A thesis is required for the M.S. Electrical Engineering degree. A non-thesis M.Engr. in Electrical Engineering is available on the Moscow campus.
• This program may also be completed part-time or online through Engineering Outreach .
• Depending on your interests, your faculty adviser will help you develop a focused plan of study.

Areas of emphasis include: Very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuits, supercomputing, microwaves, communication systems, integrated circuit design, electromagnetics, control systems, signal analysis, network synthesis, digital systems design, and electric power systems.

• An in-depth knowledge of the degree subject matter, integrating and building upon the foundation provided by a relevant undergraduate degree;
• The ability to use the results of applied research and other existing information to necessary to either carry an engineering project from the conceptual through the design and production phases or perform advanced laboratory or computer simulation studies and appropriately and accurately analyze and interpret results;
• The ability to communicate professional work in an appropriate format; and
• An understanding of their responsibility to enhance the quality of life of the global community through the practice of engineering in accordance with the IEEE Code of Ethics.

View Graduate Student Handbook (PDF)

View current Electrical & Computer Engineering courses Catalogs are released each year with up-to-date course listings. Students reference the catalog released during their first year of enrollment. For catalog related questions, email [email protected] or call 208-885-6731.

View Future Course Plan (PDF) This course plan lists the graduate courses and technical electives we intend to teach. It is subject to change without notice.

• Degree Requirements

Programs must satisfy both the university requirements governing the degree and the following departmental requirements:

• Electrical & Computer Engineering graduate requirements
• College of Graduate Studies requirement
• At least 18 credits in electrical & computer engineering courses numbered 500 or above.
• Two or more electrical & computer engineering courses numbered above 500 in a given area for depth.
• At least one course in each of two areas (outside the areas selected under item 2) to provide breadth.
• Enrollment in ECE 591, Electrical Engineering Research Colloquium, during each semester of on-campus enrollment.
• Students are required to write a thesis and give a final thesis defense at the end of their degree program.
• Professional Licensing

Completion of the program will count towards eligibility for the Professional Engineer's License (PE) to practice Engineering , which requires a four-year degree from an ABET-accredited school, four years of experience under a PE, and passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) and Principles of Practice in Engineering (PE) Exams.

For questions relating to Electrical and Computer Engineering degrees, please email [email protected] or call 208-885-6554.

• Funding Opportunities

The University of Idaho is awarded more than $100 million in annual grants, contracts and research appropriations.

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What Is a Dissertation? | Guide, Examples, & Template

A dissertation is a long-form piece of academic writing based on original research conducted by you. It is usually submitted as the final step in order to finish a PhD program.

Your dissertation is probably the longest piece of writing you’ve ever completed. It requires solid research, writing, and analysis skills, and it can be intimidating to know where to begin.

Your department likely has guidelines related to how your dissertation should be structured. When in doubt, consult with your supervisor.

You can also download our full dissertation template in the format of your choice below. The template includes a ready-made table of contents with notes on what to include in each chapter, easily adaptable to your department’s requirements.

Download Word template Download Google Docs template

• In the US, a dissertation generally refers to the collection of research you conducted to obtain a PhD.
• In other countries (such as the UK), a dissertation often refers to the research you conduct to obtain your bachelor’s or master’s degree.

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Table of contents

Dissertation committee and prospectus process, how to write and structure a dissertation, acknowledgements or preface, list of figures and tables, list of abbreviations, introduction, literature review, methodology, reference list, proofreading and editing, defending your dissertation, free checklist and lecture slides.

When you’ve finished your coursework, as well as any comprehensive exams or other requirements, you advance to “ABD” (All But Dissertation) status. This means you’ve completed everything except your dissertation.

Prior to starting to write, you must form your committee and write your prospectus or proposal . Your committee comprises your adviser and a few other faculty members. They can be from your own department, or, if your work is more interdisciplinary, from other departments. Your committee will guide you through the dissertation process, and ultimately decide whether you pass your dissertation defense and receive your PhD.

Your prospectus is a formal document presented to your committee, usually orally in a defense, outlining your research aims and objectives and showing why your topic is relevant . After passing your prospectus defense, you’re ready to start your research and writing.

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The structure of your dissertation depends on a variety of factors, such as your discipline, topic, and approach. Dissertations in the humanities are often structured more like a long essay , building an overall argument to support a central thesis , with chapters organized around different themes or case studies.

However, hard science and social science dissertations typically include a review of existing works, a methodology section, an analysis of your original research, and a presentation of your results , presented in different chapters.

Dissertation examples

We’ve compiled a list of dissertation examples to help you get started.

• Example dissertation #1: Heat, Wildfire and Energy Demand: An Examination of Residential Buildings and Community Equity (a dissertation by C. A. Antonopoulos about the impact of extreme heat and wildfire on residential buildings and occupant exposure risks).
• Example dissertation #2: Exploring Income Volatility and Financial Health Among Middle-Income Households (a dissertation by M. Addo about income volatility and declining economic security among middle-income households).
• Example dissertation #3: The Use of Mindfulness Meditation to Increase the Efficacy of Mirror Visual Feedback for Reducing Phantom Limb Pain in Amputees (a dissertation by N. S. Mills about the effect of mindfulness-based interventions on the relationship between mirror visual feedback and the pain level in amputees with phantom limb pain).

The very first page of your document contains your dissertation title, your name, department, institution, degree program, and submission date. Sometimes it also includes your student number, your supervisor’s name, and the university’s logo.

Read more about title pages

The acknowledgements section is usually optional and gives space for you to thank everyone who helped you in writing your dissertation. This might include your supervisors, participants in your research, and friends or family who supported you. In some cases, your acknowledgements are part of a preface.

Read more about acknowledgements Read more about prefaces

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The abstract is a short summary of your dissertation, usually about 150 to 300 words long. Though this may seem very short, it’s one of the most important parts of your dissertation, because it introduces your work to your audience.

Your abstract should:

• State your main topic and the aims of your research
• Describe your methods
• Summarize your main results
• State your conclusions

Read more about abstracts

The table of contents lists all of your chapters, along with corresponding subheadings and page numbers. This gives your reader an overview of your structure and helps them easily navigate your document.

Remember to include all main parts of your dissertation in your table of contents, even the appendices. It’s easy to generate a table automatically in Word if you used heading styles. Generally speaking, you only include level 2 and level 3 headings, not every subheading you included in your finished work.

Read more about tables of contents

While not usually mandatory, it’s nice to include a list of figures and tables to help guide your reader if you have used a lot of these in your dissertation. It’s easy to generate one of these in Word using the Insert Caption feature.

Read more about lists of figures and tables

Similarly, if you have used a lot of abbreviations (especially industry-specific ones) in your dissertation, you can include them in an alphabetized list of abbreviations so that the reader can easily look up their meanings.

Read more about lists of abbreviations

In addition to the list of abbreviations, if you find yourself using a lot of highly specialized terms that you worry will not be familiar to your reader, consider including a glossary. Here, alphabetize the terms and include a brief description or definition.

Read more about glossaries

The introduction serves to set up your dissertation’s topic, purpose, and relevance. It tells the reader what to expect in the rest of your dissertation. The introduction should:

• Establish your research topic , giving the background information needed to contextualize your work
• Narrow down the focus and define the scope of your research
• Discuss the state of existing research on the topic, showing your work’s relevance to a broader problem or debate
• Clearly state your research questions and objectives
• Outline the flow of the rest of your work

Everything in the introduction should be clear, engaging, and relevant. By the end, the reader should understand the what, why, and how of your research.

Read more about introductions

A formative part of your research is your literature review . This helps you gain a thorough understanding of the academic work that already exists on your topic.

Literature reviews encompass:

• Finding relevant sources (e.g., books and journal articles)
• Assessing the credibility of your sources
• Critically analyzing and evaluating each source
• Drawing connections between them (e.g., themes, patterns, conflicts, or gaps) to strengthen your overall point

A literature review is not merely a summary of existing sources. Your literature review should have a coherent structure and argument that leads to a clear justification for your own research. It may aim to:

• Address a gap in the literature or build on existing knowledge
• Take a new theoretical or methodological approach to your topic
• Propose a solution to an unresolved problem or advance one side of a theoretical debate

Read more about literature reviews

Theoretical framework

Your literature review can often form the basis for your theoretical framework. Here, you define and analyze the key theories, concepts, and models that frame your research.

Read more about theoretical frameworks

Your methodology chapter describes how you conducted your research, allowing your reader to critically assess its credibility. Your methodology section should accurately report what you did, as well as convince your reader that this was the best way to answer your research question.

A methodology section should generally include:

• The overall research approach ( quantitative vs. qualitative ) and research methods (e.g., a longitudinal study )
• Your data collection methods (e.g., interviews or a controlled experiment )
• Details of where, when, and with whom the research took place
• Any tools and materials you used (e.g., computer programs, lab equipment)
• Your data analysis methods (e.g., statistical analysis , discourse analysis )
• An evaluation or justification of your methods

Read more about methodology sections

Your results section should highlight what your methodology discovered. You can structure this section around sub-questions, hypotheses , or themes, but avoid including any subjective or speculative interpretation here.

Your results section should:

• Concisely state each relevant result together with relevant descriptive statistics (e.g., mean , standard deviation ) and inferential statistics (e.g., test statistics , p values )
• Briefly state how the result relates to the question or whether the hypothesis was supported
• Report all results that are relevant to your research questions , including any that did not meet your expectations.

Additional data (including raw numbers, full questionnaires, or interview transcripts) can be included as an appendix. You can include tables and figures, but only if they help the reader better understand your results. Read more about results sections

Your discussion section is your opportunity to explore the meaning and implications of your results in relation to your research question. Here, interpret your results in detail, discussing whether they met your expectations and how well they fit with the framework that you built in earlier chapters. Refer back to relevant source material to show how your results fit within existing research in your field.

Some guiding questions include:

• What do your results mean?
• Why do your results matter?
• What limitations do the results have?

If any of the results were unexpected, offer explanations for why this might be. It’s a good idea to consider alternative interpretations of your data.

Read more about discussion sections

Your dissertation’s conclusion should concisely answer your main research question, leaving your reader with a clear understanding of your central argument and emphasizing what your research has contributed to the field.

In some disciplines, the conclusion is just a short section preceding the discussion section, but in other contexts, it is the final chapter of your work. Here, you wrap up your dissertation with a final reflection on what you found, with recommendations for future research and concluding remarks.

It’s important to leave the reader with a clear impression of why your research matters. What have you added to what was already known? Why is your research necessary for the future of your field?

Read more about conclusions

It is crucial to include a reference list or list of works cited with the full details of all the sources that you used, in order to avoid plagiarism. Be sure to choose one citation style and follow it consistently throughout your dissertation. Each style has strict and specific formatting requirements.

Common styles include MLA , Chicago , and APA , but which style you use is often set by your department or your field.

Create APA citations Create MLA citations

Your dissertation should contain only essential information that directly contributes to answering your research question. Documents such as interview transcripts or survey questions can be added as appendices, rather than adding them to the main body.

Read more about appendices

Making sure that all of your sections are in the right place is only the first step to a well-written dissertation. Don’t forget to leave plenty of time for editing and proofreading, as grammar mistakes and sloppy spelling errors can really negatively impact your work.

Dissertations can take up to five years to write, so you will definitely want to make sure that everything is perfect before submitting. You may want to consider using a professional dissertation editing service , AI proofreader or grammar checker to make sure your final project is perfect prior to submitting.

After your written dissertation is approved, your committee will schedule a defense. Similarly to defending your prospectus, dissertation defenses are oral presentations of your work. You’ll present your dissertation, and your committee will ask you questions. Many departments allow family members, friends, and other people who are interested to join as well.

After your defense, your committee will meet, and then inform you whether you have passed. Keep in mind that defenses are usually just a formality; most committees will have resolved any serious issues with your work with you far prior to your defense, giving you ample time to fix any problems.

As you write your dissertation, you can use this simple checklist to make sure you’ve included all the essentials.

Checklist: Dissertation

My title page includes all information required by my university.

I have included acknowledgements thanking those who helped me.

My abstract provides a concise summary of the dissertation, giving the reader a clear idea of my key results or arguments.

I have created a table of contents to help the reader navigate my dissertation. It includes all chapter titles, but excludes the title page, acknowledgements, and abstract.

My introduction leads into my topic in an engaging way and shows the relevance of my research.

My introduction clearly defines the focus of my research, stating my research questions and research objectives .

My introduction includes an overview of the dissertation’s structure (reading guide).

I have conducted a literature review in which I (1) critically engage with sources, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of existing research, (2) discuss patterns, themes, and debates in the literature, and (3) address a gap or show how my research contributes to existing research.

I have clearly outlined the theoretical framework of my research, explaining the theories and models that support my approach.

I have thoroughly described my methodology , explaining how I collected data and analyzed data.

I have concisely and objectively reported all relevant results .

I have (1) evaluated and interpreted the meaning of the results and (2) acknowledged any important limitations of the results in my discussion .

I have clearly stated the answer to my main research question in the conclusion .

I have clearly explained the implications of my conclusion, emphasizing what new insight my research has contributed.

I have provided relevant recommendations for further research or practice.

If relevant, I have included appendices with supplemental information.

I have included an in-text citation every time I use words, ideas, or information from a source.

I have listed every source in a reference list at the end of my dissertation.

I have consistently followed the rules of my chosen citation style .

I have followed all formatting guidelines provided by my university.

Congratulations!

The end is in sight—your dissertation is nearly ready to submit! Make sure it's perfectly polished with the help of a Scribbr editor.

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Parkland school building demolished 6 years after massacre, final debris to be cleared

PARKLAND, FLA. (WSVN) - The eerie site of the three-story building where 17 people died in the 2018 mass shooting at Parkland’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School has been torn down.

In May, Broward County school officials announced the demolition of the 1200 building. The demolition process officially started last month and was expected to continue over the course of several weeks.

The victims’ families were invited to witness the first blows to the building and hammer off a piece if they wished. Many of them believing this was one step closer to healing.

The building holds dire significance as the location where a gunman took the lives of 14 students and three staff members on Feb. 14, 2018.

The shooter, Nikolas Cruz, a former Stoneman Douglas student, received a life sentence in 2022 after a jury could not unanimously agree that he deserved the death penalty. The building couldn’t be demolished earlier because it was critical to Cruz’s trial and prosecutors had jurors tour it during the 2022 penalty trial.

In a recent and unique settlement one survivor, Anthony Borge, now owns the rights to the gunman’s name.

According to the settlement, Cruz agreed to transfer the rights to his name as applies to media; this includes the use of it in production, movie, book, television, cable TV, etc. The settlement agreement also stipulates the shooter must donate his brain for scientific study. Furthermore, Cruz is also prohibited from participating in any interviews without the written consent of Borge.

The Broward school board has not decided what the building will be replaced with. Teachers suggested a practice field for the band, Junior ROTC and other groups, connected by a landscaped pathway to a nearby memorial that was erected a few years ago. Several of the students killed belonged to the band or JROTC.

Crews will clear the final debris before school starts in the fall.

Copyright 2024 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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16-year-old Quincy Wilson to run men's 400m final tonight at U.S. Olympic trials

EUGENE, Oregon — A Hayward Field fan favorite has blossomed in the form of 16-year-old sensation Quincy Wilson .

Running against competitors nearly twice his age at the U.S. Olympic track and field trials , Wilson’s captured the support and attention from spectators at the stadium and watching from home as he raced into Monday night’s 400 meters final. The top three finishers in the final will make Team USA and go to the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Wilson broke the under-18 world record when he ran a 44.66 in the first round of the 400 meters on Friday. Then he broke the record again Sunday by running a 44.59 to advance to Monday’s final, which is scheduled for 9:59 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.

Wilson will be running out of Lane 2.

"It means a lot to me because it means my hard work has been paying off," Wilson said after qualifying for the final. "I'm just excited for myself."

16-year-old Quincy Wilson with a tremendous effort in the 400m semi! He has officially QUALIFIED for the final. 👏 #TrackFieldTrials24 pic.twitter.com/nL4Nj8m5BT — NBC Sports (@NBCSports) June 24, 2024

Wilson, who attends Bullis School in Maryland, is entering the 400 final with the fourth fastest qualifying time. He is behind Quincy Hall (44.42), Bryce Deadmon (44.44) and Vernon Norwood (44.50).

Not surprisingly, Wilson has earned the admiration of his competitors.

"It’s spectacular. A 16-year-old coming out here, competing like a true competitor, not letting the moment get too big but living in the moment," said Olympic gold medalist Michael Norman, who also advanced to the final. "It’s great to see young talents like him elevate and push us to run a little faster, and take us out of our comfort zone. I think he has a bright future."

Wilson said his race plan went out the window during the first rounds of the trials, and his ability to qualify was all heart.

“I’m just running for my life out there," Wilson said. "I have a lot of things I can do to improve myself. I’m in the world’s biggest final coming up. At 16 years old, I’m ecstatic right now. ...It’s one of the happiest days of my life."

Olympic hopeful doesn't yet have driver's license

In some ways, Wilson is like his fellow competitors: He’s repped by a major apparel company after signing an NIL deal with New Balance last September. 

In other ways, he’s extremely different. He gets straight As, for example … because he’s still juggling full-time school with training. Also of note: He does not yet have his driver’s license, and isn't sure when he'll get it. He doesn't have time to study or practice driving, what with trying to make the Olympic team and all.

“I don’t know when I’m gonna get my driver’s license at this point.” – 16-year-old Quincy Wilson after his 44.59 to advance to the U.S. Olympic Trials 400m final 😂 pic.twitter.com/vaNU7ZGsrI — Chris Chavez (@ChrisChavez) June 24, 2024

Wilson is coached at Bullis by Joe Lee, a former youth pastor who’s been at the Potomac, Maryland, private school for 11 years. Before Wilson, Lee coached Wilson’s cousin, Shaniya Hall , a sprinter who starred at college track powerhouse Oregon the last four years, where she helped the Ducks to two Pac-12 relay championships. 

After his blistering opening round Friday, Wilson was asked if he held back at all considering it was just a heat. He smiled.

“It’s a different game," he said. "I’m not in high school anymore, I’m running with the big dogs now, so I gotta give it my all.” 

He brushed off concerns about if he’d be able to recover fully. 

“I know my training and my coaching,” he said. “They have me in the right position.” 

That goes for the mental side, too. Asked what his nerves were on a scale of 1-10 after his first race, he again gave off his megawatt smile before declaring, “Probably like a 2.” 

“I’m just racing against bigger people,” Wilson said, a nod to both his competitors' physical stature and brand names. “But to me everybody puts their spikes on the same way I do, and I train just as hard as they do.” 

He made it clear he’s not just here to enjoy the experience, either. He wants to win. 

Could Wilson make the Olympic team?

Norman, who ran in his first trials at 18, seemed somewhat skeptical that the 16-year-old would claim a spot on the Olympic team in the 400.

Asked if he viewed Wilson as a contender, Norman was blunt.

“It’s tough,” he said. “There’s people out there fighting for money right now. He made the final. It’s very hard to say. This is probably his first time running three rounds. I remember (my first trials), running three rounds in the 200, I was cooked.”

But he wasn’t ready to write Wilson off entirely.

“Kids are different now, so it’s definitely possible,” Norman said. “He could definitely sneak into a relay spot for sure.”

High school track phenoms are rare at the Olympic Track & Field Trials, but not entirely unheard of: In 2016, 16-year-old Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone finished third in the 400 hurdles, and qualified for the Rio Games. She did not make the final in Rio. (McLaughlin-Levrone is favored to win the 400 hurdles later this week). McLaughlin-Levrone was the youngest athlete to make Team USA’s Olympic roster in 36 years.

Erriyon Knighton, one of the world’s top 200 runners, made the Tokyo roster as a high school junior, finishing fourth in Japan. Knighton won bronze at the 2022 World Championships. He’s entered in the 200 later this week.

Should Wilson qualify for Paris, he would be the youngest-ever male member of the American Olympic track team.

Follow USA TODAY Sports' Tyler Dragon on X  @TheTylerDragon .

Email Lindsay Schnell at [email protected] and follow her on social media  @Lindsay_Schnell

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Davis Fogle, 4-star recruit in 2025 class, lists Gonzaga in final three schools

Cole forsman | jul 3, 2024.

• Gonzaga Bulldogs
• Creighton Bluejays
• Kansas Jayhawks

Fresh off an official visit to Gonzaga , four-star recruit Davis Fogle has narrowed his options down to three schools: Kansas, Creighton and the Bulldogs, according to reports.

The 6-foot-5 rising senior, ranked No. 53 in the 2025 class according to 247Sports, is expected to make his decision in the coming days, per On3.com . The Anacortes, Washington, native took his one and only visit to Spokane this past weekend during Hoopfest , though he holds numerous offers: Kansas, Creighton, Nebraska, LSU, Indiana, Cincinnati, St. John’s, Texas Tech and others.

Here’s what Fogle said about his relationship with Gonzaga to On3.com :

“They’re an in-state school. And they’re just really, really consistent. They’ve gotten to the NCAA Tournament every year and, I think, they’ve been to like nine straight Sweet Sixteens. Their player development is top-notch and that is really sticking out about them. They’ve come to see me at home like three times. They’ve come to see my workout at my high school twice. I mean, we have definitely grown a strong relationship. They like my scoring and my offensive skill set. They think I can fit in really well with their play style.”

Both 247Sports’ Crystal Ball and On3.com predict Gonzaga will land Fogle over the Bluejays and Jayhawks. Fogle would be the first commit in Mark Few’s 2025 class.

The Zags are also in the mix for five-star recruit Isiah Harwell, a 6-foot-6 guard from Wasatch Academy (Utah) who listed Gonzaga in his final four schools along with Texas, Cal and Houston. Harwell is expected to make his decision in September.

Five-star combo guard and top 10 recruit Jalen Haralson ( La Lumiere, Indiana ) has the Zags on his final list of nine schools. The 6-foot-6 small forward told 247Sports that he thinks he’ll take an official visit to Spokane in the next couple of months. Nik Khamenia ( Harvard-Westlake, California ), a four-star forward and top 30 recruit nationally, has been on multiple visits and was at Kraziness in the Kennel in October. 

Fogle was named the 2023 Northwest Conference Player of the Year after he averaged 24.6 points at Anacortes High School (WA) . He’ll play his senior year of high school at AZ Compass Prep, which has produced NBA players Jabari Walker (Portland Trail Blazers), TyTy Washington (Milwaukee Bucks) and Maxwell Lewis (Los Angeles Lakers) — as well as numerous Divison-I talents including UCLA’s Dylan Andrews, Illinois’ Kylan Boswell, Saint Mary’s guard Jordan Ross and Kansas’ A.J. Storr.

COLE FORSMAN

Cole Forsman is a reporter for Gonzaga Nation, a member of Sports Illustrated’s FanNation network. Cole holds a degree in Journalism and Sports Management from Gonzaga University.