MSB210 Master Thesis

Contents and structure

During the final semester of the Master of Science in Business programme, the student concentrates on writing their master`s thesis. The thesis is to be written in groups of two students. The thesis is an independent piece of scientific research demonstrating the student`s critical thinking, contextual awareness, knowledge of relevant literature, research design and analytical skills. These skills must be applied to the appropriate disciplines in accordance with the aims of the programme. The conceptual basis for the thesis must link clearly to the core elements of the study programme. The master thesis may also be based on a literature review.

The aim of the course is to enable the student to undertake independent scientific research. The student acquires in-depth knowledge of the specific problem chosen for the thesis and learns to use the required knowledge, methods and conceptual apparatus for analysis.

Learning Outcome

Knowledge

Upon successful completion of the course, the student:

• possesses advanced knowledge of a new area within marketing and innovation, regional economics and innovation, or management, organization and innovation:

• has in-depth insight into a specific problem area selected as the topic of the thesis;
• has advanced methodological knowledge of how to identify, assess, and evaluate various sources in the literature, data material, and information related to marketing and innovation, regional economics and innovation, or management, organization and innovation;
• is able to apply knowledge of research design, theoretical and methodological approaches and tools, gap analysis, formulation of research questions and development of hypotheses, and data analysis;
• is able to analyze academic problems related to marketing and innovation, regional economics and innovation, or management, organization and innovation, based on history, tradition, distinctive characteristics, and societal role.

Skills

Upon completion of the course, the student is be able to:

• analyze and critically evaluate various sources of information in order to make independent assessments regarding the use of relevant data, theories, and literature
• apply relevant methods in research and development, and work independently as well as in groups on practical and theoretical problems related to marketing and innovation, regional economics and innovation, or management, organization and innovation;
• carry out an independent, limited research- or development project under supervision and in accordance with established standards of research ethics;
• analyze existing methods and interpretations within marketing and innovation, regional economics and innovation, or management, organization and innovation.

General competence

Upon completion of the course, the student is be able to:

• analyze and understand scientific research reports and articles;
• apply their knowledge and skills within marketing and innovation, regional economics and innovation, or management, organization and innovation in the development of projects;
• communicate their independent work using appropriate language and terminology within marketing and innovation, regional economics and innovation, or management, organization and innovation;
• communicate research results to both specialists and to the general public;
• take responsibility for their own academic development and specialization and qualify for admission to the PhD programme Responsible Innovation and Regional Development.

Entry requirements

Within September 1 students must have completed 50 ECTS from the coursework component of the program, including one of the methodology courses (MSB209, MSB203, MSB207 and MSB208), in order to be eligible for supervision and to submit the thesis.

Teaching methods

The supervisor will provide feedback to the students during supervision meetings. Each student group is entitled to a maximum of 10 hours of supervision.

A supervision agreement must be completed and signed by the supervisor(s) and both members of the student group.

Compulsory learning activities

Four mandatory assignments. One in the fall and three in the spring semester.

1. Template for filling out team members, main topic and sub topic

2. Submit signed supervision contract

3. Proposal to be handed into the first meeting with supervisor

4. Participation and presentation at the midtway progress seminar

Assessment

Written Master’s Thesis and Adjusting Oral Examination.

The students write the master’s thesis in groups of two and with equal contributions from both candidates.

The grade awarded for the written thesis is shared by the group and will be announced at least 24 hours prior to the adjusting oral examination. The final grade may be adjusted up or down by a maximum of one grade based on the outcome of the oral examination.

Grading scale is A-F where F is fail.

Examination support material

Written Master's thesis: All (see Examination support material, Writing and referencing, and Cheating policy guidlines).

Oral exam: None

More about examination support material

More about examination support material