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

Facts

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

MSO114 Platform of knowledge in social work and social pedagogy, MSO120 Philosophy of science, MSO121 The welfare state - politics, norms and practice, MSO130 Research Methods and Project Seminar

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

Projectplan for the thesis

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.

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Kristina Johansen

Study Program Director:

Brita Gjerstad

Method of work

Individual work with supervision. The nominal length of supervision is 10 hours. The supervision can be shared between the main supervisor and co-supervisor.

Open for

Social Studies - Master's Degree Programme

Literature

Search for literature in Leganto