Thesis Information
A thesis is not required for a UAH MA in History, but if you want to do a longer, independent research project, you may opt for the thesis track.
When writing a thesis, a student demonstrates their capability to do historical research, think independently, engage in historiography, and analyze sources historically. Writing a thesis requires independent work and self-discipline and the opportunity to deeply explore a topic along with primary and secondary sources on that topic and to work closely with a faculty member while doing so.
A thesis usually takes a year to write and revise. You will revise the first draft at least twice before being ready for an oral defense of your work.
Note: The History Dept. suggests enrolling in HY590 to start one’s research. Consider taking your first HY699 in the spring so that you have the summer to research and write.
The History Dept requires the following before a student can start a thesis:
Minimum GPA of 3.75.
A Letter of Intent submitted, approved and signed the semester before embarking on HY699 thesis work. This letter ensures the student has strong and plentiful primary sources and support of a thesis director, and approval of the History Thesis Committee.
First Semester (HY699) Thesis Requirements:
Committee identified: The student will work with their advisor to identify 2 other faculty members for their thesis committee. At least half of the committee must be 1) full-time UAH faculty members and 2) have full membership in the graduate faculty. A majority must be from the degree-granting department. Submit the names of those faculty members to the thesis adviser.
Second semester (HY699) Requirements:
- Full, complete draft of the thesis must be submitted to all committee members at least three weeks before the oral defense is scheduled. Committee members will provide written feedback within 3 weeks.
- Form submitted to the Office of Graduate Studies two weeks prior to the oral defense.
- An Oral Defense must be scheduled in a timely fashion, following due dates prescribed by the Office of Graduate Studies. The student will work with their advisor and thesis committee to schedule the defense.
- A thesis submitted to Graduate School: The thesis must be signed by the committee, department chair, and college dean and sent for approval by the graduate dean. This date is very early in the second semester of HY699, so plan ahead accordingly.
- Theses must comply with the regulations set forth UAH’s Thesis and Dissertation Manual.
- Additional information on UAH graduate requirements for the thesis is outlined here.