1. What is the difference between a thesis and a capstone project?
A thesis is a formal research study that involves identifying a research question, conducting original research or analysis, and presenting findings in a structured academic format. It typically includes a literature review, methodology, results, and discussion, and is often required for research-focused graduate programs.
A capstone project, on the other hand, is more applied in nature. It may involve practical problem-solving, case studies, creative work, or professional projects relevant to the student’s field. While both require rigorous work and critical thinking, the capstone tends to emphasize real-world application over original research.

2. When should I start planning my thesis?
It’s best to begin planning your thesis as early as possible, ideally in the first semester of your program. Start by identifying potential research interests, meeting with faculty advisors, and reviewing departmental requirements. Early planning ensures you have adequate time for proposal approval, research design, and data collection.

3. How do I choose a thesis advisor or supervisor?
Choose a faculty member whose expertise aligns with your research interests. Start by reviewing faculty profiles, attending departmental seminars, and meeting with potential advisors to discuss your ideas. Strong mentorship is key to a successful thesis experience, so look for someone whose guidance style complements your learning needs.

4. Can I conduct a thesis while studying part-time?
Yes, part-time students are eligible to complete a thesis, although it may require careful time management and planning. You should work closely with your advisor to develop a realistic timeline, and ensure that you meet all program deadlines and residency requirements. Be mindful that part-time enrollment may also affect funding eligibility or access to certain resources.

5. How long does it take to complete a thesis at SEMO?
At Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), the time to complete a thesis varies depending on your program, research complexity, and whether you're studying full-time or part-time. On average, students take two to three semesters to complete the thesis once they begin the formal research phase. This includes proposal development, research, writing, and defense. Starting early and maintaining regular communication with your advisor can help ensure timely completion.

6. What are the formatting requirements for the thesis?
All theses must follow the university’s formatting guidelines, including standardized title pages, font usage, margin size, citation style, and structured sections such as abstract, table of contents, and appendices. Templates and detailed formatting checklists are available on the Guidelines and Templates section of this page.

7. Do I need to apply for ethics approval?
Yes, if your research involves human participants, animals, or sensitive data, you must obtain ethics approval before beginning your study. Contact university’s Institutional Review Board or office for information on how to submit an application.

8. What types of research funding are available to graduate students?
Graduate students can apply for internal research grants, fellowships, and travel funding. Opportunities also exist for external funding from government agencies, foundations, and professional organizations. Visit our Research Funding and Support section for a full list of resources and upcoming deadlines.

9. Is there support for writing and editing my thesis?
Yes. The Center for Writing Excellence offers workshops, one-on-one consultations, and thesis reviews and writing assistance. Additionally, the university library provides resources for citation management, literature reviews, and academic writing tools.

10. What should I expect during the thesis defense?
The defense typically includes a formal presentation of your research followed by a Q&A session with your committee. They will assess the quality of your research, your understanding of the subject matter, and your ability to respond to critical feedback. Check the Thesis section for tips and preparation guidelines.

11. What happens if I fail my thesis defense?
Failing a thesis defense is rare, as most students are well-prepared by the time they reach this stage. However, if the committee determines that your work or defense did not meet the required standard, they may:
• Request major revisions before a second defense is scheduled,
• Recommend additional coursework or research, or
• In extreme cases, deny approval of the thesis.
In most cases, failure is not final. You will receive detailed feedback and have the opportunity to revise and resubmit your work. Always consult with the chair of your thesis committee to understand the next steps and timelines for re-evaluation.

12. What happens after I submit my final thesis?
Once submitted, your thesis will be reviewed for formatting and compliance and be sent to a Thesis Reader for review. After approval and any required revisions, you may also be asked to submit a bound copy or electronic version depending on your department’s requirements. You will also have the opportunity to submit for publication to ProQuest.