Master's Thesis (MSOMAS)
The purpose of the master’s thesis is to provide training in independent scientific work and specialisation in social science topics. Students choose the topic, thesis statement and methodology themselves. Each student is appointed a supervisor who can provide advice and assistance in the process. The work on the thesis places high demands on independent, structured and goal-oriented work. The main work with the thesis takes place 4th semester, but the work with the project plan starts earlier.
Course description for study year 2024-2025. Please note that changes may occur.
Course code
MSOMAS
Version
2
Credits (ECTS)
30
Semester tution start
Spring
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Spring
Language of instruction
Norwegian
Content
Through the work on the master’s thesis, students will develop and document the ability to carry out an independent piece of scientific work. Students will develop and document an understanding of research design, key research principles, the ability to systematically and critically analyse issues and data, as well as a clear and precise presentation.
Students are required to prepare a project plan for the work. Students choose a topic for the thesis and are assigned a supervisor at the beginning of the 3rd semester. A separate project plan must be prepared for the master’s thesis. Students start working on the project plan starts 2nd semester related to the individual task whithin the method course (MSO130), further develop the plan during the 3rd semester and submit it by the end of the semebeser. The preliminary project plan is assessed and approved by the end of 2nd semester. The final project plan will be assessed and approved by the supervisor no later than 10th January.
The methodological approach may be rooted in different methodological traditions. The thesis must account for theoretical perspectives, key concepts, relevant research, method assessments and address questions that can be expected with regard to scientific criticism.
The master’s thesis should normally be in the form of a monograph, but it can also be submitted as a publication-ready article with an introductory summary (kappe). It is not a requirement that the article must be published, but the journal it is written for must be stated, and the journal’s publication guidelines must be attached.
Learning outcome
After successfully completing the course, students will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
Knowledge
Students must be able to document insight into scientific theories and methods.
Students must be able to master relevant academic methods and analyse subject-specific issues based on scientific requirements and principles.
Skills
Students must be able to carry out an independent piece of scientific work where theoretical insight, relevant choice of methodology and analysis are documented through a scientific text that is based on and conducted around a clearly formulated research question/thesis statement.
General competence
Through the thesis, students will develop basic scientific qualities in the form of theoretical awareness, analytical orientation, systematics and the ability to reflect critically and conduct a written presentation.
Required prerequisite knowledge
Exam
Thesis with oral examination
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thesis | 0/1 | 1 Semesters | Letter grades | All |
| Oral examination - adjustment | 1/1 | 1 Semesters | Letter grades | All |
The examination consists of two parts.Master’s thesis: Scope: 20,000 - 25,000 words, including table of contents and notes; excluding bibliography and attachments. Referencing style: APA 7th. All other parts of the programme must be completed and passed before submitting the thesis. The master’s thesis must receive a pass grade before students can take the oral examination. The preliminary grade given on the master’s thesis must be announced no later than 24 hours before the oral examination takes place.Oral examination - adjustment: The oral examination is used for possible adjustment of the grade. The grad can be adjusted a one grade up or down.The master’s thesis and the oral examination are assessed by both internal and external examiners.
Coursework requirements
This compulsory activity must be approved in order for students to take the examination. Approval/non-approval of compulsory activities is announced on Studentweb. Students who lack approval will not be permitted to submit their master’s thesis.
Project plan for the master’s thesis: Scope: 5 - 10 pages.