Distinguished Master’s Thesis Award – Western Association of Graduate Schools (WAGS)
Eligibility
- Only disciplines that offer no graduate degree beyond the master's are eligible.
- Nominees must have earned their master’s degree between July 1, 2006 and June 30, 2007.
- The scholarly "product" is a formal written thesis.
- Each graduate program may submit no more than one nominee for consideration (the university may submit one nominee to WAGS)
Selection process – Internal
Each nomination must contain the following:
- The original plus two copies of an expanded abstract or summary prepared by the student (1000-1500 words) describing the research and its significance, written for a general academic audience.
- Three copies of the table of contents of the thesis.
- The original plus two copies of a letter from the department chair or major professor that describes the significance of the thesis, the contribution of the thesis to the student’s graduate program, and the impact of the thesis on the knowledge base of the discipline.
- Finalists should be prepared to provide up to three complete copies of their thesis.
Initial screening will be based upon four criteria: originality, significance of the study, methodology, and overall quality. The student's contribution to the degree program may also be a consideration.
All material must be submitted to Dr. Alfred Dufty, Graduate College Office, MG-140, MS-1110, no later than July 2, 2007. A small selection committee (membership TBA) will evaluate theses and recommend Boise State’s nominee to Dean Pelton.
Selection process – WAGS
WAGS requires the same nomination material (i.e., expanded abstract, table of contents, letter from the chair or major professor), along with a supporting letter from the Graduate Dean. All material from Boise State’s nominee is due in the WAGS office by late August and will be sent directly from Boise State’s Graduate College Office. Finalists will be asked by WAGS for three copies of their thesis.
The WAGS award consists of a certificate, $1000 to the recipient, and travel expenses for the student and the student's adviser to receive the award at the annual meeting of the Association.
For additional detail and a list of previous winners, go to the WAGS web site.