Year Long Senior Essay

Most majors write a one–semester senior essay. Some, however, choose to write a two–semester essay, which is done in PLSC 490a/491b or PLSC 490a/493b (for Intensive Majors - see below).

Application for Senior Essay

Juniors wishing to write a two–semester essay in their senior year in PLSC 490a/491b must submit the Yearlong Senior Essay form. The form must be signed by a faculty adviser who has agreed to supervise the student’s essay. It should be accompanied by a 1–2-page statement of the research project and an up–to–date, unofficial transcript.

Deadlines for applications
Senior Essay Prospectus Forms

Intensive Majors

The Intensive Major writes a year-long senior essay in PLSC 490a/493b, which is preceded by PLSC 474b (Directed Reading and Research for Junior Intensive Majors) in the Spring semester of the junior year.
Juniors wishing to pursue an Intensive Major must submit an application.

Intensive Majors must also submit a Yearlong Senior Essay Prospectus. All forms and deadlines are available online.

Click here for important information on the year-long senior essay.

Rev. 09-15-24