Biology: Thesis
The Biology Department is currently offering a thesis option for selected students only (requiring a special interview and research proposal). The thesis is a research project that entails a 6 credit (Biol 598-599), year-long study (minimum). A research proposal, including an extensive literature review, must be submitted prior to registering for research course credit (Biol 598). The data from the research project must be synthesized into a single monograph (the thesis). Alternatively, if approved by her or his thesis committee, a scientific paper (or series of papers) suitable for submission to peer-reviewed journals may be substituted for the monograph. This is then defended during the oral thesis presentation and defense. Research Project defense or Thesis defense involves a written thesis, which is then presented to the faculty of the Biology Department at Saint Joseph College and defends against oral questioning regarding their findings. This examination is available only to those taking the thesis option. Although the research may be completed at a remote location, presentation and defense of the research in person at the college is required for this option.
Note that the thesis option is in addition to the comprehensive exam.
