Every major should enroll in a 3-credit directed research seminar (CGSC 396) in the fall term of their senior year with the professor who is advising their comps. During this term, they develop a formal comps proposal, gather and/or develop materials, and complete IRB or IACUCC applications, if relevant.

During Winter term, students typically complete a 6-credit 300-level independent study (CGSC 391 or CGSC 392) with their advisor, carrying out the project that they proposed in the fall term.

In Spring term, students enroll in a 3-credits CGSC 400. They revise the paper handed in at the end of winter term and submit it to both their advisor and a 2nd reader, chosen from a department other than than that of the primary advisor.