The objective of the Masters thesis is to develop the students knowledge of scientific work and to provide students with the understanding to plan, conduct, and present their work independently. A further aim is to develop skills for the critical examination of investigations and research reports and to provide the student with the opportunity for a deeper level of theoretical study within a chosen area.
Section 1. Seminars
The aim of this part is to develop the students ability to examine investigations and reports from a critical and scientific point of view. This part of the thesis work requires the student to submit written critical analyses, 4 to 5 pages in length, of two other Masters theses. This is an individual assignment. The written critical analyses, in which the students critical abilities must be clearly documented, should be numbered consecutively (Number1 - Number2).
Section 2. Master's thesis
Thesis work should prove the students independent ability to investigate and develop an issue within the field of business administration. The emphasis lies in the critical choice of method, in the creation of a relevant theoretical frame of reference, and in the extensive analysis of the theoretical and empirical material in which the author makes a contribution to the literature in a chosen subject or problem area. The methodology discussions must be clearly connected to the problem area and the different parts must be well integrated as a harmonized unity. Thesis work should generally be conducted in groups of two. The lengths of the Masters theses typically range from 40 to 60 pages.
Section 3. Main opposition
The aim of this part of the thesis work is to perform a major critical analysis of another Masters thesis, including the conducting of an oral examination of this thesis.
Förväntade studieresultat
After completing the course, the students should be able to
demonstrate that they have gained the knowledge commensurate with having completed a Bachelor thesis
select a for business administration appropriate topic and formulate relevant research questions capable of being assessed in a timely fashion
apply a scientific perspective to theory
demonstrate methodological maturity and show how their chosen methodology motivates their study
assimilate and evaluate scientific publications
explain the place of their research in relation to the research front/knowledge base in their discipline
demonstrate a scientific approach in independently summarizing and analyzing an empirical (or equivalent) material
discuss the thesis contribute to scientific knowledge in their chosen area
defend the thesis at a scientific seminar
Behörighetskrav
Universitet/högskola: Företagsekonomi C, 30 hp, inklusive C-uppsats, 15 hp eller motsvarande samt 15 hp från teorikurs på D-nivån i ämnet företagsekonomi.
En A och svenska för grundläggande behörighet för högskolestudier (om kursen ges på svenska).
Undervisningens upplägg
The authors independence and responsibility is emphasized in the conducting of thesis work. Thus the supervisors influence and control is reduced in order to create the necessary conditions for individual autonomy, creativity, and personal responsibility. Nevertheless, students are expected to participate actively in joint discussions and seminars during the thesis period. It is understood that the ongoing Masters thesis work is presented to the supervisor on at least three occasions during the thesis process.
Examination
The writing and defending of an independent work is the primary requirement. Students will also be evaluated on their ability to perform a major critical analysis of another Masters thesis and the quality of their written critical analyses of two other Masters theses.
The following grading system is used: Pass with distinction (Väl godkänd, Vg, 75% or more), Pass (Godkänd, G, 50% or more) and Fail (Underkänd U, less than 50%).
In case of failure on seminars, master thesis or main opposition complement in accordance with instructions are given on each occasion.
In case of complementary work as instructed by the supervisor, this should be completed and delivered to the supervisor within four weeks after the final seminar.
Rules and regulations concerning the production of academic texts and correct referencing will be applicable to all written assignments.
Grades on the course are awarded when students have passed all examinations and compulsory course elements.
Academic credit transfer.
Academic credit transfers are according to the University credit transfer regulations.
Övriga föreskrifter
The course is included in the one-year Masters Programs and Magisterprogram at Umeå School of Business.
Litteratur
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