Thesis Seminar - JRN394 Spring 2026
Course
Lessons
Here is the course outline:
1. Introduction to the Course
Feb 5
Getting to Know the Journalism and Media Studies Thesis at AAU! Introduction to the course; syllabus review; and first discussion of AAU’s Journalism and Media Studies thesis requirements. |
2. The Academic Thesis
Feb 12
Discussion of the components of the academic thesis, including literature review, theories and methods; chapters; sources, etc. We will use real-life examples of AAU academic theses to break down the components and discuss strengths and weaknesses. |
3. The Investigative Journalism Thesis
Feb 19
We will discuss the components of investigative journalism thesis and review examples and strategies in the context of past AAU theses. |
4. Preliminary Topic Presentations
Mar 5
Students will briefly present their ideas for their thesis topics and receive feedback from peers and professor. |
5. Theories, Methods, Literature Reviews
Mar 12
This week, we will discuss theories and methods in various approaches to media analysis, as well as the section of the thesis called "literature review." Students are required to choose and read two academic, peer-reviewed articles or book chapters on their preliminary topics before the class. |
6. Research Reports, Theories and Methods, Cont.
Feb 19
We will continue our discussion of theories and methods. Students will present one article from their research discussing its theories and methods, continuation of previous week. |
7. Midterm Assignment SubmissionThere is no in-person class meeting during this session. You should complete and submit your thesis proposal document to me through NEO by the end of the day. |
8. Student Topic Presentations and Discussions 1Students will present a detailed discussion of their potential thesis topic, meeting the distributed guidelines. |
9. Student Topic Presentations and Discussions 2Students will present a detailed discussion of their potential thesis topic, meeting the distributed guidelines. |
10. Student Topic Presentations and Discussions 3Students will present a detailed discussion of their potential thesis topic, meeting the distributed guidelines . |
11. One-on-One Project Consultations 1Students will meet with professor one-on-one to discuss their project ideas. |
12. One-on-One Project Consultations 2Students will meet with professor one-on-one to discuss their project ideas. |
13. Final Proposal SubmissionThere is no in-class meeting during this session. Complete your final thesis proposal and submit through NEO by the end of the day. |