Non-credit thesis is a continuous registration device for students not taking classes. You may not sign up for it if you are taking classes. The Defense There is an oral thesis defense which should be scheduled well before the end of the semester in which you graduate. All three committee members interview the candidate at length. You should work with your supervisor and the Center Director to schedule the defense.
Faculty frequently refuse to deal with last-minute drafts and defenses.
Caution on Thesis Option Before deciding to write an M.A. thesis, students should realize the extent of the undertaking. Currently several people who completed course work 2-3 years ago are still working sporadically on theses. Reasons for these problems vary. The project was much larger and more difficult than expected. The material wasn't there as expected.