DescriptionStudents must complete either a thesis or a paper as part of their degree requirements. The selection of either the thesis or the paper should be made by the student in consultation with his/her advisor. Both the thesis and the paper are expected to be an original, scholarly work that contributes new knowledge or unique thinking to the field of exceptional education.

Project:

• The project is an in-depth investigation of a topic in exceptional education. It is recommended to those students who do not wish to do experiential and/or descriptive research. A research proposal may be required.
• The goals, outlines, and completed project need only be approved by the thesis advisor.

Thesis:

• The thesis is rigorously executed, experimental and/or descriptive research. It is recommended to those students who plan to pursue advanced graduate work toward a doctorate degree, or who consider such work as a possibility in the future.
• The goals, outline, and completed thesis must be approved by a three-person committee constituted by the student in consultation with the thesis advisor.