Chemistry @ IU :: Thesis Guidelines

Graduate Programs

Graduate Programs

Thesis Guidelines

The thesis is to be written after research has progressed far enough to constitute a genuine contribution to knowledge. It must be of such quality that significant portions can be published in one or more of the leading journals in the field of research covered.

First Draft

A complete copy (i.e., with tables and bibliography) of the first draft should be given to the student's Advisor not less than six weeks prior to the time it is due in the office of the University Graduate School. The Advisor will usually require a week or two to complete his or her review of this first draft. After this is done, extensive rewriting or even additional experimental work may be necessary. From this time until a final draft is ready, it may be necessary to consult the Advisor several times and to modify the developing thesis to achieve a fully satisfactory result.

Final Draft

If the comments do not suggest the need for additional experimental work or rewriting, the final draft should be very carefully edited, and one copy given to each member of the Ph.D. Advisory Committee for their final evaluation. Each copy must be accompanied with a vita sheet inserted at the end. These should be returned to the student not later than the day of the oral examination. Then, after any final corrections are made, the original copy is processed electronicly to the Graduate School. See Thesis Guide for complete requirements.

University Graduate School Thesis Guide

The University Graduate School has an online guide for preparing theses and dissertations. It is highly recommended that you read this not only while you prepare your thesis, but during your research as well.