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. Library Research Session
Mar 12
This week, we will go to the library for a research tutorial and session. Please come to class first, then we will go together to the library. Annotated bibliographies do by end of day. |
6. Research Reports, Theories and Methods
Mar 19
We will continue our discussion of theories and methods. Students will present one article from their research discussing its theories and methods. |
7. Former Student Roundtable
Mar 26
Former thesis students will attend the session to talk about the thesis process. |
8. Midterm Assignment Submission
Apr 9
There 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. |
9. Student Topic Presentations and Discussions 1
Apr 16
Students will present a detailed discussion of their potential thesis topic, meeting the distributed guidelines. |
10. Student Topic Presentations and Discussions
Apr 23
Students will present a detailed discussion of their potential thesis topic, meeting the distributed guidelines. |
11. Student Topic Presentations and Discussions 3
Apr 30
Students will present a detailed discussion of their potential thesis topic, meeting the distributed guidelines . |
12. One-on-One Project Consultations 1
May 7
Students will meet with professor one-on-one to discuss their project ideas. |
13. Final Proposal Submission
May 14
There is no in-class meeting during this session. Complete your final thesis proposal and submit through NEO by the end of the day. |