THESIS EXPERIENCE FOR THE MFN DEGREE

The thesis topic selected is typically based on FN faculty’s research interests. The time to completion is at least 1.5 academic years. Once a student enrolls in thesis credit hours, the student is required to enroll each semester (excluding summer) for at least 1 credit hour (FN 6990) until the student graduates. A total of four credit hours of FN 6990 is required and may be used towards the degree requirements. Students may enroll more than four credits; however, additional credit will not be used towards the degree. Students choosing thesis are advised to take a statistical analysis course for one elective requirement. Students may consider EDFI 6410 or other reasonable substitutions for this requirement.

The student will be supervised by a thesis advisor and committee, which includes another FN faculty member and a non-FN faculty member, in addition to the advisor. Students who choose the thesis must recognize that individual motivation is required to ensure progress. Some advisors may require weekly or biweekly appointments to encourage timely completion of the thesis.

Many students will ask about the difference in the thesis and the scholarly project. The thesis requires more time to complete, and often the research is more in depth, has a greater scope than the master’s project, and requires more formalized procedures (including formation of a committee comprised of 3 members, proposal presentation and defense, approval, final defense, formatting for OhioLink, etc.).

Students should consult the MFN graduate handbook for a review of all policies. Students should also refer to the BGSU's Graduate College's Thesis Guidelines.