University Thesis Writing Guide

Dear Master’s Candidate:

You are about to embark on one of the most important aspects of a master’s degree, the preparation of a master’s thesis. The thesis will provide you with an opportunity to demonstrate the ideas, research skills, and creative abilities you have gained during your graduate work.

As with your previous master’s coursework, the first place to begin this new endeavor is with your department. The most important person in your department at this time will be your thesis advisor. You should select an advisor who is a good match with your research interests and with whom you have a good academic and working relationship. The selection and definition of a research topic and methodology is a key element for completing a successful thesis. Your thesis advisor is the person who will help you do this and who will guide you through the content and research requirements of the thesis.

The Office of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies will assist you with the style and format of your thesis. This University Thesis Writing Guide presents the requirements to follow when you write your thesis. Reading and following these guidelines will help you to prepare a thesis that will be in conformance with university standards and thus acceptable for format and style. Questions of content and academic quality are determined by the thesis advisor in your department.

After you have read the University Thesis Writing Guide, please call the Office of Academic Programs and Graduate Studies at (510) 885-3286 if you have any questions concerning style and format not covered in these pages. I encourage you to clear up these questions before the preparation of your final draft.

Congratulations on your graduate work to date and best wishes on your University Thesis.

Sincerely,

Carl J. Bellone

Associate Vice President

Academic Programs and Graduate Studies