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Senior Thesis and Departmental Honors

Writing a senior thesis under the close and personal supervision of one of our faculty members is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have during your time at Notre Dame. A thesis is usually a substantial piece of writing built on deep analysis of a topic of your choosing. However, creative projects are possible as well. Ample funding opportunities are available to cover travel, living expenses, or other costs associated with your project.

German Student Studying In Department with Cross in Background

Requirements to be admitted for a senior thesis:

  • Average GPA of 3.0 or higher in your German major
  • Enrollment in GE 48499 (satisfactory/unsatisfactory) during the fall semester and in GE 48498 (graded) during the spring semester
  • Only the spring credits may count towards the major or supplementary major requirements 
  • Thesis of 25-35 pages written in German or English

Requirements to earn departmental honors:

  • Grade of A- or higher on your senior thesis
  • Departmental GPA of 3.5 or above

  • Presentation of thesis in public forum

Deadlines:

  • Summer before Senior year: secure nomination from at least one departmental faculty member
  • 14 days before last day of classes in Spring semester: submit final thesis