Master of Arts in History
The Non-Thesis Option
The non-thesis option, like the thesis option, requires 30 credits that include at least three 500-level graduate seminars. Under the non-thesis option, you complete a major research paper by enrolling in HIS 401, 441 or 481, and the following semester in HIS 495 (or HIS 591 in special circumstances). In the first semester you develop a research prospectus, and in the second you research and write your paper. There is no required length for a major research paper as this varies considerably according to topic and sub-field, and the expectations of individual professors, but it’s reasonable to consider 40-50 pages a typical length.
The Non-Thesis Process
Many students enter the program planning to write a thesis, and doing so can be an extremely rewarding experience. Many who are planning to go on to doctoral programs feel it’s important to write a master’s thesis, and doing so can be a good decision in such cases. Before you decide to pursue this option, however, please consider that some students who choose the thesis option take an extra summer or semester to complete their degrees. Why? Students start to work on the thesis in the second semester and sometimes find it’s difficult to complete all the tasks that go into the project in three semesters: narrowing down the topic; completing research; developing historiographical and theoretical frameworks; and preparing drafts of each chapter. Completing a thesis within a two-year program also requires efficient time management; persistence and the ability to work alone; and good writing and organizational skills.
The non-thesis option is a nice alternative for students who enjoy doing research but worry they might not complete the thesis option within two years. It also presents an opportunity to take more courses and broaden your expertise as fewer credits are devoted to independent research on one topic. It makes sense to ask yourself: what are your goals for your degree and your post-graduate career, and would they be better served by focusing a large chunk of your time on one research project or studying more broadly?
If you are unsure which course to take, it makes sense to register for a section of HIS 401, 441 or 481 (a requirement for students in either option) and decide at the end of the semester whether to consider this course an elective or the beginning of a two-semester sequence that will result in a non-thesis, major research paper.
Students are allowed to take multiple sections of our 400-level offerings as electives (provided they take no more than half their courses at the 400 level). This means you can sample a 400-level course if the topic interests you before committing to it as the foundation for your major research paper.
Talk to Other Students
Find out why other students at URI have decided to pursue the thesis or non-thesis option. We can put you in touch with some of them before you make your decision.