Master's Thesis in Political Science, 15 credits

Contents

The aim of the course is to develop the student’s ability to independently write an academic thesis. The course will also increase the student’s knowledge in one or more themes within Political Science.

Expected learning outcomes

In order to pass this course, the student should be able to

• identify and delimit a scientific problem and formulate an ambitious research question within Political Science
• develop a thought-through analytical framework clearly grounded in theory and method within Political Science
• conduct a study by applying appropriate methods and relating it to relevant theory
• write a scientific thesis, which adds to relevant knowledge and research
• reflect upon strengths and weaknesses of their own approach
• review and analyze scientific articles and/or other student theses and relate those analyses to broader theoretical perspectives and approaches to knowledge.

Required Knowledge

Political Science 90 credits including a thesis 15 credits, or equivalent. In addition to this, 60 credits at master's level are required, of which at least 30 credits in Political Science or equivalent (including a thesis of at least 15 credits at master's level). Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish Upper Secondary course English 6/level 2. Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies

Form of instruction

The course consists of seminars and individual supervision. Students are entitled to supervision only during the semester in which they are first registered for the course. The study guide presented at the introduction of the course provides further information about the course.

Examination modes

The course is assessed through an individual written academic thesis, an oral defence at a final seminar, and oral opponent assignments. For the course as a whole, the grades Fail (U), Pass (G), and Pass with distinction (VG) are awarded.

To be eligible for examination in the course, draft versions of the thesis must be presented to the supervisor on at least 2 occasions prior to the final seminar, and thesis must be completed.

The number of examination opportunities is limited to five.

Examiners may decide to deviate from the modes of assessment in the course syllabus. Individual adaption of modes of assessment must give due consideration to the student’s needs. The adaption of modes of assessment must remain within the framework of the intended learning outcomes in the course syllabus. Students who require an adapted examination must submit a request to the department holding the course no later than 10 days before the examination. The examiner decides on the adaption of the examination, after which the student will be notified.

Other regulations

Students must document their work process in accordance with the course instructions. The empirical material must be made available to assessors and the examiner upon request. Students must be able to account for and substantiate their own work in all components of the course in accordance with applicable regulations on academic integrity and the use of digital tools.