What is the Distinguished Master's Thesis Competition?
The Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools (MAGS) solicits nominations in two of four categories that alternate every year.
In 2025, MAGS is seeking nominations for the Distinguished Master's Thesis Awards in the broad categories of Social Sciences and Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Engineering.
WHAT IS THE APPLICATION WINDOW?
The 2025 nomination window is now closed. The 2026 nomination window will open in early Fall 2025.
WHAT IS THE AWARD?
$500 honorarium and nomination to the MAGS’ annual Distinguished Master’s Thesis competition.
HOW DO I APPLY?
Program Nomination required. Please reach out to your Director of Graduate Studies or Graduate Program Coordinator.
For Program Nomination, log in to the electronic nomination form.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
A single PDF nomination file should include documents #1-4, in the following order:
1. One-page nomination letter, signed by the DGS.
2. 300-word abstract describing the research and its significance, including the thesis title and name of the author but not the name of the nominating institution.
3. Full Thesis
4. Letter of support from the advisor.
Required PDF title format: Nominee Last Name, First Name - Program
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?
- nominee is pursuing their first graduate research degree, regardless of discipline
- nominee must have been awarded the Master's degree between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2024
- nominee’s thesis is in the discipline of either Social Sciences OR Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Engineering
- nominees who submitted original work "in lieu of thesis" (such as musical compositions, published books, works of art, computer software, etc.) are NOT eligible
- programs can nominate up to one (1) student
Further Information
If you have any questions, please contact the Graduate School Fellowships Office.