A thesis is an extended scholarly essay that incorporates original research on a specific topic. A thesis is usually written as part of the requirements for a graduate degree, in this case, a master's program.

A thesis submitted by a graduate student in partial fulfillment of degree requirements must embody the results of original research and must be successfully defended at oral examinations. The master’s thesis shall be on a topic approved by the student’s supervisor and supervisory committee. In addition, it must include submission and approval of a thesis proposal (master's), including appropriate ethics review and approval, in accordance with faculty and program requirements and procedures.

A thesis should demonstrate that the student is familiar with and has an acceptable understanding of the following: the literature in the subject of the thesis, that the appropriate research methods have been used and that appropriate levels of critical analysis have been applied. The research embodied in the thesis should make some original contribution to knowledge in the field.

A thesis is defended in oral examinations scheduled after the supervisory committee has confirmed the work is examinable. In consultation with the student and the members of the exam committee, the graduate program director will recommend the date, time and location of an oral exam via submission of a Recommendation for Oral Exam form.