A thesis is not required, although students may wish to undertake a major piece of policy-related research while in the Program. The completion of such an effort may be helpful in gaining desired employment, or for continuing graduate work at the doctoral level. The thesis, if done well, will be an example of research capabilities, writing abilities, and analytical skills. Students register for up to six semester hours of thesis credit. In addition, they may take up to eight semester hours of readings to develop a thesis topic and prepare a literature review. Three semester hours of readings may be applied to the area of concentration requirement. A thesis will substitute for the Planning Program's final oral exam.
