Master's Thesis (MSOMAS)
The purpose of the master’s thesis is to provide training in independent scientific work through the in-depth study of a topic relevant to social studies.
Course description for study year 2025-2026. 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
The master's thesis should be an independent scientific work where the student delves into a topic of relevance to social studies. The student chooses the topic, problem formulation, theoretical perspective and methodology for the thesis. Each student is appointed a separate supervisor who will provide guidance and help in the process. Independent, structured and goal-oriented work is expected from the student.
The main work on the master's thesis is carried out in the fourth semester, but the student develops a project plan in advance in order to to plan and structure the work.
Students are also offered the opportunity to participate in group work with other students in the fourth semester, where the participants present ongoing work and give feedback to each other.
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).
Learning outcome
The purpose of the master's thesis is for the student to carry out independent research work relevant to social studies. After completing the course, the student should have the following learning outcomes:
Knowledge
The student has
- advanced knowledge of previous research, key concepts and theories related to the topic addressed in the master's thesis
- in-depth knowledge of relevant research methods, analytical approaches and research design
- insight into research ethics
- knowledge of academic writing
Skills
The student can
- formulate a clear and limited problem formulation that is relevant to the field of social studies
- develop a research design that appears appropriate to answer the problem formulation
- document insight into previous research within the chosen topic and relate this to their own project
- use relevant research methods to explore the problem formulation of the master's thesis
- systematise and analyse the collected data
- discuss the study's findings in light of a self-chosen theoretical perspective and previous research
- discuss the implications of the study's findings for social studies practice and research
General competence
The student can
- handle and reflect on key research ethical issues
- reflect critically on choices of method and theoretical perspective
- communicate research findings in writing and orally through a clear academic 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 - 8 pages.
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Kristina JohansenStudy Program Director:
Brita GjerstadMethod 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. Parts of the supervision can also be given in grops.
Group work where participants present ongoing work on their master's thesis and provide feedback to each other will be offered.