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Writing and Composition


Course Description

This course supports M.A. students through the thesis-writing process, combining historical research and writing with project management skills. Through sequenced assignments and collaborative activities, students refine their scholarship, time management, and revision strategies, culminating in an article-length thesis based on original primary research.


Athena Title

Writing and Composition


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Student learning Outcomes

  • Students will be able to develop and refine advanced research, analytical, and writing skills necessary to produce an article-length thesis.
  • Students will be able to engage critically with primary sources and situate their findings within relevant historiographic debates.
  • Students will be able to gain practical project management strategies for large-scale academic writing.
  • Students will be able to produce successive drafts of their thesis, incorporating substantive feedback at each stage.
  • Students be able to complete and submit a polished thesis on schedule.

Topical Outline

  • • What is a thesis?
  • • Conducting Primary Source Research
  • • Identifying Secondary Sources
  • • Making a Writing Plan
  • • Time Management and Motivation
  • • Crafting an Argument
  • • Using Evidence
  • • Staying on Track
  • • Editing
  • • Formatting

Syllabus