Thesis Information

Thesis form (PDF -- 16K)
Thesis documentation and release form (PDF -- 12K)

FAQs

Where can I find the guidelines for my thesis?
Thesis guidelines can be located on MySCAD under the Resources tab.  Click on Graduate Studies in the Department Directory, then click on Guidelines.  The Thesis Guidelines includes information on the electronic submission of theses as well as links to departmental requirements.

What kind of paper am I required to use when I print my thesis document ?
The library's copy of your thesis must be on at least 20-pound bond paper with a minimum 25 percent cotton content in order to meet archival standards. A watermark typically identifies paper meeting these requirements.

Why must the left margin be .5 inches wider than the other sides?
Documents are bound on the left side; binding crops the document by .5 inches. A 1.5-inch margin on the left edge is required to ensure that your text and images appear visually centered once the document is bound; 1 inch is an adequate margin for the top, bottom and right edges.

What are the requirements for my signature page and title page?
Signature and title pages must be formatted according to the examples given in the Thesis Guidelines. The layout of these pages must be off-set .5 inches to the right to appear visually centered when bound. Signatures must be original. It is important that the thesis committee chair be the last to sign the final draft so thats/he may conduct an evaluation and ensure the thesis document meets all requirements.

What format is required to document the visual/studio component of my thesis?
The format of visual documentation should be determined in consultation with your thesis committee chair at the outset of your project. If you are submitting slides, you must submit two identical sets of slides in archival plastic sleeves, each accompanied by an inventory list. CDs/DVDs/CD-ROMs must be presented in a labeled jewel case. VHS must be boxed and fully labeled. Figures must be of high, professional quality and printed or mounted on paper meeting minimum archival standards. For further information on visual documentation of the visual/studio component of a thesis, refer to the Thesis Guidelines on the Graduate Studies site on MySCAD.

What else is required when I turn in my thesis to the library for binding?
Two forms are required when you submit your thesis to Jen Library: Thesis Submittal and Release. These forms can be obtained at the circulation desk of the library anytime during library hours. A $12 bindery fee must be paid at the time of submittal. You can pay by cash, check or money order. Checks should be made to SCAD. You will be issued a receipt for the bindery fee. Theses are accepted anytime during the Jen Library's operating hours.

What happens next?
Following review of the mechanical and format standards by the Jen Library thesis coordinator, the registrar is notified that your thesis has been accepted for archiving. The registrar solicits a grade from your thesis committee chair. If a submitted thesis does not meet one or more of the mechanical and format standards as specified in the Thesis Guidelines on the Graduate Studies site on MySCAD, your thesis is returned to the chair of your department.

What if I have other questions?
Refer to the thesis guidelines at the graduate studies site on MySCAD; your department may have additional requirements. If you have questions regarding thesis format that are not answered by the guidelines, contact the Jen Library thesis coordinator at 912.525.4700.