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Pre-thesis Phase This page was last reviewed on July 29, 2011   

The first stage of the Bachelor of Independent Studies (BIS) Program - the pre-thesis phase - varies in length depending on your enrolment in the Honours plan or the General plan and any advanced standing that an new ISer may be granted. Pre-thesis phase can last from four to six terms.

During this stage of the program you are encouraged to study widely and explore a variety of methods of carrying out your pre-thesis work or project. Methods could include taking courses, doing independent library or lab research, or finding your own field placement.

Your pre-thesis studies can take various forms:

  • a scholarly essay from the review of documentation and debates about some issue in order to draw your own conclusions based on evidence and arguments;
  • a research project set-up as a laboratory or field experiment to test a hypothesis;
  • a design project to apply theoretical and/or applied knowledge to some challenging situation;
  • a portfolio or program of artistic work with reflective essays on the genre you are developing and your own creative experiences in the process; or
  • a well thought-out business plan for some enterprise you would like to undertake and your subsequent reflections on the feasibility of achieving it.

In each term during this phase you develop a study plan, set goals, and report on the work you've completed. You meet at least five times each term with academic advisors, professors and other experts who are part of the Independent Studies program. Your term study plans and term reports will help both you and your advisors evaluate your progress.

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