MAE Thesis Option: Guidelines

Students interested in Eng. 501 Thesis Option should read the MAE website carefully for important additional information. The Thesis Option should not be undertaken lightly, and its procedures are quite different from regular coursework. Basically, the Thesis Option provides an opportunity to write extended research analysis on a literary text. It carries 4 elective credit hours for the MAE, but does not replace the MAE exam. Once a topic is selected, students must ask a graduate faculty member, generally one who is familiar with their work, to serve as Thesis Director.

The student must also secure a second faculty reader for the project. Before enrolling in Eng. 501, a Thesis Proposal must be submitted and approved by all involved and the MAE Director. A special form must accompany the Proposal. Often it is advisable, but not required, in the term before the writing of the Thesis, to register with the Thesis Director for Eng. 500 Independent Study (also 4 elective credits) in order to give extra time for research. To register for these credits, both Eng. 500 Independent Study and Eng. 501 Thesis Option require an Independent Study form (different from the Thesis Proposal Form), filled out by student and Thesis Director, and then brought to the MAE Director. The English Graduate Office sends in the forms for registration.

For more information about the Thesis Option, please contact Dr. Lesley Kordecki, the MA in English Program Director, at lkordeck@depaul.edu.