Honors Thesis and Deadlines

Q: What is an Honors thesis?

A: A written report of a creative, scholarly project dealing with teaching, research, or outreach. It has clear objectives and conclusions and involves original, independent work of the student. It is NOT a book report or literature review of a topic, an opinion paper on why something is good or bad, or a paper that lacks novel and critical analysis.

 

Q: What are the deadlines for thesis proposals and submitting a final thesis?

 

A. If you are graduating Fall 2013:

• Proposal is due to CALS Honors Program Director by Friday June 14, 2013. Late proposals accepted through July 26, 2013
• Thesis due to CALS Honors Program Director by Friday November 22, 2013

A. If you are graduating Spring 2013:

• Proposal is due to CALS Honors Program Director by Friday September 28, 2012
• Thesis due to CALS Honors Program Director by Friday April 12, 2013

A. If you are graduating Summer 2013:

• Proposal is due to CALS Honors Program Director by Friday February 15, 2013
• Thesis due to CALS Honors Program Director by Friday July 19, 2013 (if graduating Summer B or C) and due to the CALS Honors Program Director by Friday June 7, 2013 (if graduating Summer A).

Q: How long is a typical CALS thesis?

A: There is no length requirement; typically theses are 10-50 pages double spaced, not counting figures, tables, literature cited, and appendices. The focus is quality, not quantity.

Q: Should I do an honors thesis?

A: Yes, if you:

• are in the CALS Honors Program
• wish to graduate from UF with magna or summa cum laude Latin Honors
• like to work one-on-one with distinguished faculty
• can devote up to several hours per week to your project
• are self-motivated and manage time effectively
• wish to enhance your qualifications for graduate or professional school admission

The most important benefits of an undergraduate thesis derive from the close working relationship you can develop with a faculty advisor. Sharing your passion for discovery with a faculty member is a priceless experience that will benefit you for a lifetime. Another more immediate benefit is the outstanding letter of recommendation (for graduate / professional school / jobs) you can expect from a faculty mentor who has gained respect for you as a scholar and devoted learner.The CALS Honors Program makes it easier for you to find and work with an advisor in ANY college at UF, and to understand how to go about developing, conducting, and finishing a thesis project.

What does CALS offer?

• Examples, guidelines, Honors thesis tips, advice, and enthusiastic support in the CALS honors office - McCarty Hall D - Room 2002
• Departmental coordinators to help you find a faculty mentor and conduct a project related to your interests
• University Scholars Program and other opportunities to obtain funding for conducting your work