Thesis and Capstone Information
“The major written requirement for most MAs in History and in Maritime Studies is a master’s thesis. A thesis is an examination of a well-defined historical subject that relies chiefly on primary sources, published or unpublished, to form an argument. It should possess some degree of original thought on the topic, or in its approach to that topic.
The thesis should not be a compilation of detail or a simple narrative. Instead, it should pose an argument. It should be expository rather than descriptive. The typical MA thesis should be 100 pages or more in length.
Theses for students in the Program in Maritime Studies may differ from traditional MA theses because of their emphasis on archaeological methodology. Such theses, however, must incorporate relevant historical materials-including primary sources-in their evidential bases.
For some MA History students, including those concentrating in Public History, who do not wish to pursue careers in academia, the non-thesis capstone project may be a better option. Capstone projects may include article-length historiographic essays, annotated syllabi or lesson plans, exhibit designs, digital history initiatives, or other non-thesis works of applied research. Please see the Capstone Project Guidelines below for details.”
Agreement to Supervise Thesis Form
Masters Pre-Thesis Approval Form
Flowchart of Required Documents