What’s the difference between the thesis and the Non-Thesis Option?
The writing of a thesis requires an in-depth study of a particular question in a single field. This usually entails initial coursework in the area, additional work in methodology or theory, exploratory research (usually in the form of an L695 independent reading project), focused writing (usually in the form of a W609 independent writing project), and, at the end of the process, four credit hours of L699. Add it up, and you’re talking about anywhere from 12 to 20 of a total of 36 Masters credits devoted to the thesis. The Non-Thesis option, by contrast, usually is characterized by breadth, not depth. Students following the Non-Thesis Option typically devote all 40 credits of the degree to coursework in two or more subject areas.
