ES majors may also pursue independent study through the department that is affiliated with the student's focus. Some foci (e.g., Creative Arts, Environmental Geology, Environmental Nonfiction) actually require this. Students pursuing this option are governed by all of the rules established by those departments. These students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisors early so that they understand what these requirements are. A student's departmental thesis may qualify the student for ES Program honors if: (1) the student submits an "Intent to Complete a Thesis" form to the ES Program Director by the end of his or her first semester of work on the project and the Program Director determines its topic fits into environmental studies. Students pursuing a thesis through another department who do not submit this form are not eligible to be considered for honors in ES; and (2) the student presents his or her independent work in either the public presentation of ES theses or in a similar presentation in the participating department. If eligible, the student will be evaluated for ES honors based on the criteria listed here.