HIS 452 - Senior Essay II

All Majors are required to complete a two semester senior essay under the guidance of a fulltime history faculty member. HI 452 is a continuation of HIS 451. The goal of the course is to give each history major the experience of a sustained, independent research project, including: continuing formulating a historical question, considering methods, devising a research strategy, locating and critically evaluating primary and secondary sources. Classes will involve student presentations on various stages of their work and mutual critiques, as well as discussions of issues of common interest. The collaboration occurs in a seminar-like setting, in which a small group of students work with one professor for the entire semester, refining their historical skills and presenting their research findings. The students have to pursue a historical subject of their choice, in consultation with their professor. Students gain a better understanding of historical investigation through a careful analysis of primary and secondary sources and development of a well-argued senior essay. By the end of the semester, majors have emerged with a sense of fulfillment in producing a senior essay prospectus, historical citations, an annotated bibliography, critical book review, and final essay. Students’ are required to enroll and successfully complete HIS 452 during the fall semester of their senior year. On rare occasions, with departmental and advisor approval given for compelling written and documented reasons, a senior essay may be started two semesters prior to graduation. The determination of the acceptation rests with the department chair and may not be appealed. All Majors are required to attend regularly scheduled senior essay seminar workshops as scheduled.
Prerequisite(s): EN 105, EN 106, HIS 451 and completion of a minimum of 90 credit hours.
Fulfills: Professional Writing
Lecture Hours: 3 Lab Hours: 0 Credits: 3
History: HI 452