Independent Work
Independent research is the hallmark of a Princeton Economics education. Reflecting the university’s deep commitment to research and undergraduate teaching, all (not just honors) majors engage in two intensive, year-long independent research projects: Junior Independent Work (JIW) and the Senior Thesis. These projects are supported by extensive advising, library, and computing resources. Limited funding is also available to support senior thesis projects. To apply, visit our Funding Opportunities page.
Junior Independent Work
Students begin their JIW by attending lectures, workshops, and advisor meetings in the Fall semester. The work culminates in the writing of a Junior Paper in the Spring term.
Senior Thesis
To complete their degree, all Economics majors must write a Senior Thesis that demonstrates a command of the theoretical, empirical, and/or experimental methods needed to critically analyze a chosen topic.