(required, no credits during third year of studies)
Arising out of the junior tutorials, this project and examination are the testing grounds for early mastery of the material in the curriculum; both focus upon an author and works of special interest to the particular student.   Working independently, the student prepares over the course of his junior year for an oral examination before a faculty panel.  The student must demonstrate not only depth of insight into the particular readings completed, but breadth and eloquence; in short, he demonstrates that he has been attentive not only for a semester, but has worked to integrate the knowledge of his various courses with the emergent interests that he has in a particular area.

(2 semesters of 2 credits each during fourth year of studies)
During the last year of study, the student prepares, writes, and presents a thesis accompanied by a formal address on a topic chosen with the guidance of a faculty mentor.  The defense is given publicly and involves a précis and speech that afford the opportunity for further review and reflection upon the totality of his studies.