Graduate Programs

Master's Degree

Guidelines for the development of thesis, professional project, or field study

This guide was based in large part on materials developed at the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand; and California State University at Chico.

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On behalf of the Graduate faculty I would like to take this opportunity to encourage you to carefully review all sections of the Guidelines for the Development of a Master’s Degree Thesis, Professional Project or Field Study. A student who elects to complete a final professional paper or project is entering into a process that has been part of advanced study for centuries. This is clearly a decision that should not be entered into lightly.

We encourage you to carefully consider your commitment to the process of developing a professional paper or project. To be successful you will have to have a dual relationship with an advisor and writing committee. The process of developing a final paper or project will put you into the role of both a developing professional and student. You will be expected to operate independently, but keep in close contact with your writing chair and committee. Your goal should always be to develop an end product that will contribute to the overall knowledge pool of your profession.

Please keep in mind that chair and committee members have volunteered to assist you, with the clear understanding that you are ready to commit at least a year of your time to develop a publishable document. Completing your study will allow you to join a select group of scholars who have contributed to your profession. We sincerely hope that this experience will be a highlight of your master’s degree here at Western Oregon University.

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Contact

Graduate Programs phone: 503-838-8597 | or e-mail: graduateoffice@wou.edu