Research Paper
Each student enrolled in the M.A. Program is required to write a research paper in one of his or her three elective classes. This requirement is in addition to any exams or other course requirements in that elective.
Students will write their research papers under the supervision of a faculty member from the department. The Director of the M.A. Program is also available to provide feedback on the proposal and drafts of the research paper.
The research paper provides an opportunity to write a substantial piece of academic work in which the student is expected to demonstrate mastery of a field and the ability to think originally and to convey results clearly in writing. The process of writing a research paper under the supervision of an instructor also gives students a chance to get to know their advisor and may be the basis for writing a letter of recommendation.
Academic Writing Resources
- Nine Basic Ways to Improve Your Style in Academic Writing
- Bloated Language (aka Wordiness)
- Purdue Writing Lab
- Did I Prove My Thesis? (Great template for better paper organization and clarity)
- The Elements of Style (A good reference book on English grammar and composition)
- Academic Writing for International Students (You can use CLIO to access many free writing resources from Routledge!)
- What Is a Literature Review?
- The Thesis Whisperer (More tips on lessening redundancy and wordiness)
- Refining the Research Question
