Students work independently on an original thesis with the guidance of a thesis advisor and under the supervision of the thesis committee. The thesis advisor and committee are appointed and preparatory research is completed by the end of Thesis Prep in the fall semester of the second year. Student should demonstrate the ability to use literature searches, archival study, and fieldwork to develop a compelling written and visual narrative. With committee approval, students may submit thesis projects in alternative forms, such as documentary video or multimedia. The completed thesis must demonstrate original analysis and thinking on theoretical, historical, social, ecological, or other dimensions of contemporary urban practices. Students learn how to develop their thesis for publication, whether in scholarly peer-reviewed journals, news magazines, position papers put out by think tanks or nonprofit organizations, or reputable websites that reach a large and varied audience. The thesis may explore areas such as urban design, urban studies, urban ecology, design theory, or social advocacy and political activism in the design and building of cities.