Master Thesis
Full course description
The Master’s thesis forms an integral part of the overall Master’s programming, accounting for one third of the overall degree. Students are required to write an independent Master’s thesis that demonstrates their ability to conduct original research. Between September and December, a number of events take place in order to introduce students to research topics and potential supervisors, and to prepare students for the development of their research proposals and related research ethics considerations. The thesis proposal is due in January. Following the approval of the research proposals, students are then supported by their supervisors to further develop and conduct their research projects. The completed theses are due in June and then defended.
The Master’s Thesis is therefore divided into three core components:
- Period 1-2 (September-December): Finding a supervisor and writing the thesis proposal. During this period, students identify a research topic of interest and find a matching supervisor. With input from their supervisors, students then develop their thesis proposals (due January).
- Period 3 (January): Methods Workshops. A series of methods workshops is offered to equip students with the advanced methodological knowledge and skills they may need to successfully complete their thesis projects.
- Period 4-6 (February-June): Research, completion of the thesis and defence. Between February and June, students are expected to work on their thesis project and seek the advice and feedback of their selected supervisor. The final thesis is due in June. In addition to submitting their written theses, students are required to present and defend their research.
Course objectives
By the end of the master’s thesis, students should be able to:
- Match and apply theories, concepts, and knowledge learned in the programme to the thesis topic;
- Express and defend in-depth knowledge on a specific topic;
- Synthesize existing literature and identify research gaps on a specific topic;
- Develop relevant research design and implement appropriate research methods for a specific research question;
- Evaluate results from literature and data in order to make contributions to the overall field of study;
- Provide policy recommendations based on the evaluation and synthesis of the research findings, in relation to the field of study and policy area.
Prerequisites
There are no specific prerequisites for this course.