.

Graduate Degree Program Description

Master Of Arts, Near Eastern Languages and Cultures

The Purpose and Nature of the M.A. Thesis Prospectus

1. Conception of the Thesis: The thesis must present, explain, and support the results of a comprehensive research project. The project itself consists in the collection, classification, and interpretation of a significant body of primary sources and related data. The scope of the thesis should be such that it would be accomplished within the allotted length of time and according to acceptable scholarly standards. It should be organized and composed in a systematic manner that evidences the student's clarity of understanding, consistency of approach, rigor of method, and lucidity of presentation. The prospectus should be self-sustaining and convincing to the reader with a general knowledge of the particular field.
   
   
2. Some Characteristics of a Satisfactory Prospectus:
   1. A clear statement of the problem. A mere indication of an interest in a topic is not sufficient. The problem can usually be stated in the form of a major question, with minor questions, and should be concisely defined and limited.
      
      
   2. A summary of relevant scholarship to show that the problem has not yet received sufficient treatment.
      
      
   3. A brief survey of materials and facilities required for the satisfactory study of the problem, including field work, off campus library books, etc.
      
      
   4. A clear and precise statement of assumptions and hypotheses upon which the study will be based.
      
      
   5. A succinct statement of the working method (preliminary, analytical, and interpretive procedures) and basic terminology.
      
      
   6. A general indication of how the thesis will be structured.
      
      
   7. A hint as to the nature and significance of the conclusions at which the candidate expects to arrive.
      
      
   8. A frank self-evaluation of candidate's present capacity for effectively completing the thesis and suggestions as to how perceived shortcomings, if any, might be dealt with and significant obstacles, if any, overcome.