This detailed information is in addition to the general information of the course SVF-3023.

Study points: 10

Teaching: Spring and Autumn

Exam semester: Autumn

Teaching language: English

Course objectives:
SVF-3023 starts in semester two of the first year and is completed in semester three. It aims to provide a coherent and overarching framework for students to engage with the research process throughout their studies.

Course contents:
There is an information meeting towards the end of semester one on the academic and practical requirements of the course. The meeting will also address the formulation of a thesis topic and the writing of a project proposal, which is required in semester two. This project proposal will provide the theoretical, methodological and practical basis for the chosen research.

Students are expected to demonstrate academic independence during the development of their project proposal, as well an understanding of the significance of relevant theoretical arguments from the programme readings and related background literature. Students can proceed to the next stage of their research once the project proposal has been approved.

Find the guidelines to develop a thesis proposal here.

The Contract for Supervision of Thesis Work should be established by 31 March. The application for funding from CPS for data collection is 20 March.

Teaching:
In semester two, there will be three compulsory lectures to create a common platform for project related discussions and work. These lectures will focus on the (i) principles of social research, (ii) how to write a research proposal, and (iii) research ethics and security. Find the "Syllabus and Schedule" for these lectures here.

In the course of semester three, students will present aspects of their research paper (see below) at Project Seminar Sessions. These seminars will give students an opportunity to jointly explore issues, discuss challenges associated with the research process and share ideas on each other’s research paper. A minimum of 75% seminar attendance is a prerequisite for submitting the research paper.


Curriculum:
750 pages (400 assigned and 350 self-selected)

Exam:

Semester 2: Project proposal maximum of 10 pages (ca. 4000 words) must be submitted by 30th April and approved by 15th May.

Evaluation: Pass/Fail

Semester 3: Research Paper of 6000 words and the list of the self-selected readings (see blow) have to be submitted in November. A minimum of 75% seminar attendance is a prerequisite for submitting the research paper.

This paper or part of it should ideally be adapted and tailored to fit into the overall scope and structure of the master’s thesis. Students will select the topic of the paper in consultation with their supervisors.

The research paper can solely address key theoretical issues, as well as methodological and empirical issues. For example, the research paper may form part of the introduction of the thesis, or involve a discussion of theoretical/methodological/analytical issues in the master’s thesis.

Evaluation: A-E, Fail=Fail

The course is open for re-sit examination early in the following spring semester.

Assessment:
The course is to be evaluated every autumn semester in accordance with the quality assurance system of the MPCT-programme.