A thesis is a report of an independent research project that the student plans and implements. We highly encourage students in the Reading and Literacy M.Ed. program to choose the thesis option:

• A thesis allows the student to work independently while exploring a topic of interest.
• Thesis research adds to the knowledge base about reading and literacy; given the small amount of quality research with the local student population this information is critically needed.
• It gives the student research and writing experience while being supported by the thesis committee.
• Students who intend to pursue a higher degree such as a doctorate should especially consider doing a thesis; many doctoral programs expect incoming students to have this sort of research experience.

Thesis work is supervised by a committee of faculty members. A thesis generally takes at least a year to complete. Candidates who elect to complete a thesis are not required to complete the culminating activity.

For more information on the thesis, please see the Reading Thesis Manual.