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In the fourth or fifth year of study, undergraduate students in the School of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Virginia undertake a research project called the undergraduate thesis. The undergraduate thesis project is designed to give students firsthand experience with the communication of technical information, the ideas and values that shape technology, the role of individuals and organizations in innovation, the role of technology in solving problems, the impact of technology on society, the ethical issues in engineering, the way personal values are expressed in professional choices and activities, and the management over time of a major project involving a variety of resources.

The projects are normally in a field of study appropriate to students' career interests in engineering or applied science. Students receive guidance on how to organize their projects and in preparing written and oral reports on their research by taking a two-course sequence, STS 401-402. Each thesis is reviewed and approved by a technical advisor from the students' major department and by the students' 401 and 402 professors.

Over the two courses, the undergraduate thesis project serves as a case study in a range of cultural and ethical issues. In STS 401, students step back and consider the broader context of technology and science in Western civilization, and what constitutes scientific and technological progress, focusing especially on ethical and cultural dimensions. In STS 402, students are encouraged to develop an understanding of the engineer's role in society and the role of ethical issues and ideals in engineering. The engineering thesis is used as the particular focus for the issues raised in these classes.

Students may submit their completed thesis to compete in the annual Undergraduate Research and Design Symposium.