The Senior Thesis
What is the senior thesis?
The senior thesis is a requirement for graduation with a major in physics, astrophysics, or applied physics. The senior thesis is a clear, logical presentation of some independent, physics-related work done by the student. Possible forms for the thesis include:(1) results of the student's experimental, theoretical, or numerical investigations (often in connection with on-going research at UCSC); or (2) a review of some particular area of physics; or (3) an extension of some class material (possibly of a Physics 134 or 135 experiment); or (4) a treatment of a topic that is not generally considered to be in the mainstream of physics, such as a topic in biophysics or a technology involving physics. Any thesis must display the use and understanding of physics at the level of an upper-division physics course.
A senior thesis will generally require twenty-five pages of double-spaced text, figures, and equations. In only rare cases should it exceed forty pages. The effort invested in the senior thesis may vary widely. It is reasonable to budget about the amount of time and energy required for two regular upper-division physics courses for the project. But in some cases (see below) a less extensive project may be warranted. Copies of many previous theses are available for viewing (click here).
The value to you of a senior thesis.
The senior thesis is designed both to complete your undergraduate physics experience and to provide a base from which to continue your future work related to physics, whether it will be in a physics graduate program, a graduate program in another area, or moving directly to your future career.
Unlike standard physics courses, which typically stress techniques for problem solving and analysis, the senior thesis emphasizes independent decision-making, activity-scheduling, and presenting scientific material in a well-written form. It allows you to explore and develop subjects of your own choosing. You decide independently what you need to learn to carry through your project. In addition, you not only acquire knowledge but you also develop your ability to communicate it. These activies provide good practice for the career that lies ahead.
The above paragraph described the "intrinsic" value of the senior thesis. A good thesis can also have an "extrinsic" value. It can provide evidence to others of your motivation and ability. Graduate schools and prospective employers can be advantageously impressed by a good thesis--even years after graduation. In this regard, pay special attention to the brief abstract of your thesis since it may be all the people you wish to impress actually read.
How do I do it?
The thesis supervisor (Physics 182 "Scientific Communication for Physicists" instructor) is responsible for coordinating all the theses for the year and for commenting on your early drafts. The thesis supervisor is primarily concerned with a suitable professional level and presentation but will also have advice on how to get started and how to organize your endeavors.
You will also have a technical advisor, normally a faculty member who is knowledgeable about your thesis topic. Your technical advisor could also be a faculty member of another department or, for example, a postdoctoral researcher. In some cases, especially where your thesis is connected to work done off campus—on an internship perhaps—your technical advisor could be a scientist or engineer you who has worked with you. You have wide latitude in your choice, but the thesis supervisor should approve it. The thesis supervisor can often facilitate arrangements with appropriate advisors.
In your final year you must enroll in Physics 182 "Scientific Communication for Physicists", the disciplinary communication course, which is offered in the fall and winter quarters. As part of this course,students receive guidance on their thesis work, give progress reports on their work, and comment helpfully on the reports of others. Your technical advisor may be willing to sponsor a Physics 199 (Independent Study) for course credit.