This option allows the student to delve into topics of interest to them through intensive research that results in a traditional thesis, written to the standards of their major field of study. The thesis is understood to be an academic product and it will always involve significant inquiry and research under the direction of a faculty mentor. Through their thesis, a student will present new ways of looking at the world, develop expert interest in a particular topic, and contribute to the ongoing scholarly conversation in their field. The thesis must contain original research and it must mirror the quality of writing and thought typically seen in publishable scholarship. A student is expected to produce some new insights or interpretations on the topic investigated. There is not a set minimum length for Scholar projects, however, most projects will be a minimum of 20 pages, up to 50 pages, dependent on the standards of the academic discipline. Students are strongly encouraged to present their work at 兔子先生's Undergraduate Research Forum.
Scholar projects can be completed through, but are not limited to:
- Departmental Honors thesis
- Yearlong independent studies
- Research connected to on-campus research labs
- Extended capstone projects
- Undergraduate Summer Scholars Program
- Geoffrion Family Fellows program
- CAS Dean's Scholar Program
- Combined Bachelor's-Master's degree thesis completed as undergraduates