The essay is prepared in the senior seminar, and is normally a revision of a paper already done for another class in the student's prior work in the program. It thus provides students with an opportunity to learn the skills involved in refining an already formed argument. The paper will also be presented to a group of faculty and students. Qualifications and Admission Only a relatively small number of students can be admitted to the program. Ordinarily, a GPA of 3.4 or better is required.
Application is made in the fall semester of either the sophomore of the junior year.
Students are notified of admission in time for preregistration for spring courses. Core Courses A number of courses have been developed by the program specifically to serve its purposes. These core courses are not limited in enrollment to students in the program, but preference is given to them. In addition to the core courses, electives may also be selected from among the normal range of courses offered by relevant departments. Students should discuss appropriate electives with the Program's directors.