Bachelor's Thesis in Economics, 15 Credits

Contents

The purpose of the course is to provide the student with the opportunity to apply economic theories and methods to answer a research question relevant to the field of economics by writing a bachelor's thesis. The focus is on developing analytical skills, which includes the motivation, formulation, and structuring of a problem, research design that encompasses the choice of theory, method, and empirical selection. Additionally, the course aims to develop the student's skills in critically reviewing and assessing others' work, as well as presenting and defending their own work. The thesis can be written individually or together with another student.

The course consists of two modules:

Module 1: Thesis Writing (14 credits/14 ECTS)

The thesis writing is done individually or in pairs with another student and with the support of a supervisor appointed by the department. The work aims to develop the student's skills in motivating and formulating questions relevant to one of the research areas of economics, using economic theory and method, and drawing well-founded conclusions from their study. An important part of this module is to develop the ability to present results in writing.

Module 2: Seminars (1 credit/1 ECTS)

In the seminars conducted at the end of the course, each student must individually present and defend their thesis. In addition, the student must be the main opponent on another student's thesis and a secondary opponent on at least two other theses.

Expected learning outcomes

Having completed the course, the student is expected to be able to:

Knowledge and understanding

• Identify and formulate a research question, justify the relevance of the research question from an economic perspective, and relate the question to previous research.
• Select, justify, and apply relevant theory and method, as well as organize a study to answer the chosen question.

Competence and skills

• Write a thesis with correct and clear language, adhering to the specified formal requirements and completing it within the designated time frame.
• Orally present own scientific results using appropriate technical aids and be able to argue for the conclusions.

Judgement and approach

• Analyze and present conclusions drawn from an independently conducted study and previous research.
• Orally critically review other students' theses and contribute with constructive feedback in dialogue with others.
• Discuss ethical and/or societal implications of conclusions and practical recommendations.

Required Knowledge

90 credits completed courses whereof 60 credits in Economics with the exception of internship courses. Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.

Form of instruction

The thesis work is largely an independent task, which means that the student's individual freedom, creativity, and personal responsibility are emphasized. The student's work is supported through individual supervision. Dates for supervision sessions are planned together with the supervisor, and the student is expected to continuously present drafts to be discussed with the supervisor. Additionally, there are thesis seminars at the end of the course.

Examination modes

Module 1: Thesis Writing (14 credits/14 ECTS)

The examination consists of a written thesis, which is graded on the scale U/G/VG (Fail/Pass/Pass with Distinction). The thesis can be written individually or in pairs.

Module 2: Seminars (1 credit/1 ECTS)

The examination consists of the presentation of the self-authored thesis and active participation in other students' presentations, serving as the main opponent on one thesis and as a secondary opponent on at least two other theses.

The following grading scale is used for the course: Pass with Distinction (VG), Pass (G), and Fail (U).

To pass the course, both modules must be completed with a passing grade. For the grade Pass with Distinction, the thesis must also receive the assessment Pass with Distinction.

A student who fails module 1 has the right to present their thesis at a resit opportunity after the summer. The possibility of retaking module 2 is also offered in connection with this.

Thereafter, failed exams can be completed at the next course offering. If the mode of examination cannot be repeated, another mode may be used.

A student that has failed an examination on two occasions has a right to have another examiner or grading teacher appointed, unless there are special reasons against it. A written request addressed to the Director of Studies should be made no later than two weeks before the next examination opportunity. A written request should be submitted to the Director of Studies no later than two weeks before the next examination opportunity.

Exceptions from examination form as stated in the syllabus can be made for a student who has a decision on pedagogical support for disabilities. Individual adaptations of the mode of examination should be considered based on the student's needs. The examination form shall be adapted within the framework of the expected learning outcomes stated in the course syllabus. At the request of the student, the course responsible teacher, in consultation with the examiner, must promptly decide on the adapted examination form. The decision must then be notified to the student.

Academic integrity and cheating

As a student, you are expected to act with academic integrity. This means writing and presenting within the limits of the academic rules and expectations communicated in the university's regulations and what is otherwise specified by the responsible department. Disciplinary action may be taken against a student who uses unauthorized help aids or in some other way tries to mislead on a test or when another type of task is being evaluated. Rules and regulations concerning the production of academic texts and correct referencing will be applicable to written assignments. Submitted material may be subject to plagiarism control. In addition, Umeå University rules and regulations for education on undergraduate and master's level apply.

Other regulations

The thesis can be written individually or together by two students. It is not possible for students to co-write theses at different levels (e.g., bachelor's and master's level).

The thesis work is a campus course that requires in-person attendance for supervision, participation in seminars, and collaboration with a thesis partner.

The empirical data used in the thesis must be available in its complete form (raw data) upon request for supervisors, main opponents, and evaluators.

If the student chooses to write the thesis in English, the seminar must also be conducted in English unless all seminar participants (including secondary opponents and supervisors) are Swedish speaking.

Supervision is only guaranteed during the first term the student is registered for the course, regardless of how much supervision has been utilized.