The thesis is usually a large and theoretically complex research project. It is distinguished from the research project by its originality, discipline and depth. Like the research project, it might be based on a new research design, a significant researchable question, a replication or extension of existing research, or secondary analysis of a data set. A thesis, however, is much longer than the literature review or research project format. Typically, a thesis is about 90 pages long, contains multiple chapters, and includes many pages of tables, figures, and appendices. Whereas the research project is similar to a journal article, the thesis is similar to a short book with chapters.
A thesis requires a three-person committee, which approves a substantial and detailed proposal (usually 10-12 pages), before field work and data collection begin. A thesis proposal hearing is required at the start of the project and an oral presentation is required at its completion.
All students who are completing the thesis must enroll in SOC 500: Thesis Research. This is not a course with a meeting time; it is conducted similarly to an independent study course. Enrollment is only by permission of the department chair (see below- How do I sign up for SOC 500: Thesis Research).
One recent thesis title is:
- Measuring Income Mobility Among Nations From 1950 to 2000: An Inquiry into Nation-State Stratification