A bibliography of all references used in the development of the creative thesis. For a qualitative thesis, the specific format to be used will be determined by the academic department and the thesis advisor. However, it must include a statement of purpose, a review of relevant research, a description of the research methodology, and a bibliography. In addition to substance, a thesis will be evaluated on writing style and fluency, which includes correct grammar, proper spelling, and consistency of chapter headings, subheadings, footnotes, endnotes, references and bibliography. Attention to such details as writing the proposal in the future tense is imperative.
Different disciplines use different formats or styles for their professional writing.
The Office of Graduate Studies recommends the most recent edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association . However, you should check with your department to determine if it requires a different style and follow it in writing your proposal. It is important to note that the SCSU Thesis Guidelines supercede those of individual style manuals. One copy of your thesis proposal, with the completed Thesis Proposal Signature Sheet, must be submitted to the School of Graduate Studies. The Dean of Graduate Studies will review the proposal, and notify the candidate and the thesis advisor in writing of acceptance, or return the proposal for reasons specified.