In the spring of the first academic year, thesis topics are discussed during a series of workshops. During the summer between the academic years, students choose a topic and begin their background research. Before classes start, each student is required to submit their thesis topic statement and/or hypothesis, including background information, outline, and preliminary bibliography. Specialists in the student’s thesis topic serve as mentors to individual students for the duration of the thesis project. Completion of the thesis is required prior to the start of the fourth semester spring break in mid-March. The student’s thesis mentor and two independent readers critique and grade the thesis.

LEND Fellowship: During the spring of the first year, interested students are encouraged to apply for the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopment (LEND) fellowship. This fellowship is offered in partnership with the Westchester Institute of Human Development. The program has four components: an overview course on neurodevelopmental disabilities, clinical experiences, leadership development activities, and research. All fellowship activities are reflected in a portfolio, prepared by each fellow with faculty mentor support. Two to three students are selected for the yearlong program; a stipend is provided.