Senior Honors Thesis
Senior honors thesis in political science
The senior honors thesis at Skidmore College is an opportunity to explore a political science topic in depth through independent research. Working closely with a faculty advisor, you'll develop a research question, build an argument using primary and secondary sources, and complete a paper of at least 40 pages (10,000 words). You'll also present and defend your findings before a faculty panel.
How it works
- Junior year: Develop a research question, identify a faculty member willing to direct your thesis, and submit the Senior Honors Thesis Questionnaire by June 15.
- Senior fall: Enroll in PL 374: Senior Thesis Prep, complete a 5–7 page research proposal and an annotated bibliography, and establish a research and writing schedule with your advisor.
- Senior spring: With a grade of B or higher in PL 374 and department approval, enroll in PL 375: Senior Thesis, select a second reader, complete your research, and defend your thesis.
Important deadlines and honors requirements
- April 10: Final thesis due for departmental honors or Periclean Award consideration.
- April 12–22: Thesis defenses take place.
- May 1: Submit a clean, graded, bound copy of your thesis to the department.
To earn honors, you must receive an A- or higher on your thesis and have a GPA above 3.5 in political science courses.
Interested in writing a thesis? Start by talking with a political science faculty member about your research interests and preparation.