Course content

The academic content of the Master’s thesis must include a scientific investigation of a theme related to globalization. The thesis must be written in English. It should be between 50 and 70 pages (12 pt, 1.5 spacing), and should demonstrate the student’s ability to carry out an independent scientific research task. The contents of the thesis should fulfil an academic level appropriate to a Master’s level course, and relate to aspects of the interdisciplinary framework of the taught course element of the Master’s programme. The topic for the Master's thesis is selected in consultation with a supervisor.


The students in the Global Technology Management specialization will write their thesis in an international company or organization. The students in the Global Politics and Culture specialization will normally write their thesis at NTNU.

Learning outcome

The students should be able to treat a specialized topic in an academic manner. The students will be trained in the formulation of research questions and in gathering and analysing data. The students will achieve an extended competence in analysing processes of change related to globalization.

Learning methods and activities

Individual supervision. Compulsory assignments: A project summary of 300 words should be written in the third semester followed by a more detailed proposal in the form of a written outline of the thesis (around 5 pages) at the beginning of the fourth semester. Both project summary and project proposal should be submitted to the supervisor. Assessment: Thesis and oral examination.

The deadline for submission of the Master’s thesis is normally 1 May. The student must have passed all courses in the Master's programme before the Master's thesis can be submitted. The Master's thesis must be approved before the student can present herself/himself for the 30 minute oral examination related to the Master's thesis. The oral examination is held in English. The grade for the Master's thesis may be adjusted after the oral examination.

Compulsory assignments

• Project proposal

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Bachelor's degree in humanities, social sciences or technology.

Requires admission to the Master's Programme in Globalization. The student must have completed 90 ECTS/credits within the programme.