Course content

Students decide on the topic and readings for the master thesis in agreement with a supervisor. The standard duration of the study is two semesters. The master thesis should document the student's ability to work independently with a philosophical problem. Clarity and coherence of argumentation and exposition are emphasised.

Learning outcome

The master thesis should document the student's ability to work independently with a philosophical problem. Clarity and coherence of argumentation and exposition are emphasised.

Learning methods and activities

Seminars and supervision.

The master thesis is written in the 3rd and 4th semesters of study with normal progression. In the 3rd (preferably) or 4th semester, the candidate must present a chapter or part of his or her thesis at the masters seminar, or other departmental forum, e.g. 'instituttseminar'. Approved syllabus and abstract of the thesis (max. 1 page) is to be submitted three weeks before the submission of the thesis.

The master thesis should be 60-100 pages, and must be submitted in seven hard copies.

The assessment of the thesis is divided in three steps: First, the thesis is submitted for assessment. Second, the student must give a trial lecture on a given topic based on the selected readings. The topic of the trial lecture is given ten workdays before the lecture date. Third, there is an oral exam on the same day as the trial lecture. The thesis and the trial lecture are 9/10 and 1/10 of the final grade, respectively. The final grade will be adjusted based on the student’s performance in the oral exam.

Compulsory assignments

• Abstract
• Approved curriculum list

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Spesialisation/major in philosophy (minimum 80 ECTS credits). Requires admission to the master programme.

Course materials

Students compose their reading list based on the offered teaching and/or in consultation with lecturer.