Distinguished Scholars Program Timetable

Below, students can view the timetable for the program.

Year Goals & Expectations

Junior year

(starting fall semester)

  • Meet faculty and think about potential topics

  • Take 3023 ASAP if you have not already taken it

  • Consider participating in a study abroad program

  • Develop appropriate skills, such as foreign language competence

Junior year

  • Identify a topic and an advisor - Consider applying to UROP and/or other summer funding for research

  • Apply to the Distinguished Scholars Program (application review begins mid-March)

  • After being accepted into the program, enroll in HIST 4961V, the Distinguished Scholars Workshop, for the Fall semester 

Summer between Junior and Senior years

  • Begin research, including travel to archives if possible

Senior year (Fall)

  • Take HIST 4961V: History Thesis Workshop

  • Conduct bulk of research and begin writing (15-25 pages)

Senior year (Spring)

  • Enroll in an independent study or Senior Thesis Research (HIST 4994, 1-3 credits) with advisor

  • Complete research and writing of thesis

  • Submit thesis (if you are in the University Honors Program, consult the relevant pages for additional requirements)

  • participate in the History Honors Conference, usually a Saturday in April.

Note for transfer students and students graduating in the fall

For students planning to graduate in December, it is still possible to participate in the Program but doing so requires extra planning. See the Undergraduate Advisor as soon as this may involve taking the Thesis Workshop two semesters in advance.

Transfer students are also eligible for the Distinguished Scholars Program. See the Undergraduate Advisor as soon as possible to plan your schedule, identify potential topics and advisors, and, if necessary, discuss additional steps you can take to prepare for the program.