EDUC 514 Thesis
The course is the culminating capstone experience in the Master of Education (M.Ed.) program. Building on foundational work completed throughout the program, candidates engage in the full production of their master’s thesis. From data analysis and interpretation to drafting, revising, and finalizing the manuscript, students complete an independent research study grounded in educational practice. The course supports candidates through the final stages of academic research, including IRB compliance (if applicable), synthesis of findings, graduate-level writing, and preparation for both oral defense and public presentation at Hartwick College’s Student Showcase. Successful completion results in a defendable thesis demonstrating depth of inquiry, methodological competence, and the ability to connect theory to practice in meaningful and ethical ways. The purpose of this course is to guide graduate students through the completion of a rigorous and original research thesis. Candidates will engage in the full process of scholarly inquiry, including analysis, interpretation, and synthesis of findings, while refining their ability to communicate complex ideas through academic writing. Emphasis is placed on independence, intellectual ownership, and the ethical responsibilities of research. By the end of the course, students will produce a thesis that reflects depth of understanding, methodological soundness, and meaningful contribution to educational practice, aligned with the program’s focus on equity and innovation. Course meets online. Offered in Spring.
Prerequisite
Matriculation in the Master of Education degree program. .