M30-GEP Master's Thesis

Credits (ECTS):30

Course responsible:Arild Angelsen

Campus / Online:Taught campus Ås

Teaching language:Engelsk, norsk

Course frequency:Annually

Nominal workload:750 hours

Teaching and exam period:Autum parallel or Spring parallel

About this course

The master's thesis is an independent scientific research project in which students explore a specific academic problem in depth. Through this work, students develop critical thinking, analytical reflection, and methodological skills. The master's thesis is a comprehensive study that demonstrates the student's academic maturity, ability to work independently, and expertise within their field of specialization.

The M30-GEP consists of independent work on the master's thesis, combined with supervision and academic discussions with the assigned supervisor. The thesis should be a high-level academic study within the student's area of specialization.

Learning outcome

Upon successful completion of the master's thesis, you will have acquired the following knowledge, skills, and general competencies.

Knowledge

You will have in-depth knowledge of the research process, including research design, data collection, analysis, and dissemination of research findings.
You will have advanced knowledge of planning, organizing, conducting, and reporting a scientific research project.
You will have specialized insight into the scientific theories, methods, and approaches relevant to your field of specialization.
You will understand scientific standards and principles for academic integrity and research ethics.

Skills

You will be able to apply social science methods to collect, process, analyze, and interpret data in a critical and systematic manner.
You will be able to reflect on and critically assess your own and others' methodological choices, analyses, and conclusions.
You will be able to write a structured and coherent academic text that meets scientific standards.
You will be able to conduct independent investigations and analyses of complex issues within your area of specialization, in accordance with research ethics guidelines.
You will be able to select and justify appropriate methods and theories to address research questions.

General Competence

You will have experience with research methods and academic writing that are relevant for research, evaluation, and development work in professional settings.
You will be able to identify, analyze, and address research ethics issues within your field.
You will be able to communicate and present complex research findings clearly and precisely, both in writing and orally, to various audiences.
You will be able to contribute to and execute advanced research and development projects in academic or professional contexts.
You will be able to critically evaluate and provide constructive feedback on the work of others, applying your expertise to improve practices and decision-making processes in the workplace.

Learning activities
The master's thesis is a research project conducted under supervision. It is written by one or two students collaboratively. If two students work together, an equal distribution of effort is expected, along with a slightly more extensive thesis than if written individually. Students are expected to attend and actively participate in scheduled supervision sessions.
Teaching support
All students are required to have regular meetings with their assigned supervisor. Up to 40 hours per master's thesis are allocated for supervision. This includes group sessions, supervision meetings with discussions and feedback, as well as the supervisor's time for reading and evaluation.
To establish a strong foundation for the master's thesis, a kick-off seminar is held in the second semester. The seminar aims to initiate the planning process and support students in finding a writing partner, defining a thesis topic, and, if relevant, establishing collaboration with a company.
In the third semester, the course ECN305 or equivalent will guide students in developing a project proposal, providing a solid basis for writing the master's thesis in accordance with research ethics guidelines.
Prerequisites
Students are expected to have completed the course ECN305 (or equivalent) and approximately 90 ECTS credits of their master's degree coursework before starting the writing of the master's thesis.
Recommended prerequisites
It is recommended that students, who have not previously attended a writing course, attend such a course
Assessment method
The master's thesis is evaluated and graded on a scale from A-F. Evaluation of the master thesis has two elements: First and foremost the grade is based on the written thesis which is evaluated by the advisor and an external examiner. In addition, there is an oral defense of the thesis. This includes the student preparing a presentation of the written work, followed by an individual discussion with the external examiner and advisor. The performance during the oral defense can result in a minor adjustment of the final grade for the thesis.
Examiner scheme
The degree thesis shall be graded by at least one external examiner and one internal examiner. The main supervisor is usually the internal examiner.
Mandatory activity
Presentation at the thesis proposal conference. Students are expected to both present their proposed research and to comment on the proposals of their colleagues.
Notes
The School of Economics and Business will at all times refer to the current regulations of NMBU, and remind the students that it is their responsibility to learn and deliver by adhering to all mandatory guidelines. Such as reporting, contracts, registration, deliveries and eventual applications for delayed submissions (requires documentation). Follow the information at the homepage of Student information Centre (SiT) and contact the supervisors for questions.
Admission requirements
Master students at NMBU's master program in Global Economy and Politics (GEP).