Course content

The master’s thesis is an independent scientific work of 30 ECTS, representing a specialization within the student’s chosen topic. In their choice of topic, the student will explore an empirical, theoretical or methodological research question relevant to the field. The master’s thesis should reflect the student’s ability to provide a nuanced, clear and precise presentation of a chosen topic, as well as their ability to disseminate results to peers within the discipline.
Supervision is a key component of the work with the thesis. This ensures that the student acquires the necessary knowledge, and monitors the collection and processing of data, verifying that the work takes place in accordance with ethical standards. Supervision is compulsory for any student who wants to submit a master’s thesis. All master students must sign a master’s thesis agreement, which, among other things, regulates supervision.
The thesis should be approx. 50 pages (approx. 20,000 words).

Learning outcome

Candidates who have completed this course will have acquired the following learning outcomes, defined as knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge
The candidate
- has specialized insight into a defined issue in the field of language and communication in the professions
- has in-depth knowledge of a defined empirical field in its social and cultural context
- is able to apply scientific knowledge and understanding in independent and critical scientific research

Skills
The candidate
- is able to select and process relevant literature and use it to formulate and structure a standpoint using scientific reasoning
- is able to analyze a communication phenomenon using relevant concepts and categories
- is able to prepare a text in accordance with the formal requirements that apply to scientific texts

General competence
The candidate
- is able to apply relevant theories and methods to discuss a chosen communication phenomenon
- is able to plan and carry out an independent research project in line with scientific norms
- is able to identify and assess ethical issues associated with working with empirical data in a scientific context

Compulsory assignments

• academic supervision

Further on evaluation

Form of assessment and grading scale:
Thesis.
Grading scale: A–F.
Students who have previously earned a passing grade on a master’s thesis in language and communication in the professions cannot submit for assessment another master’s thesis in language and communication in the professions (cf. Section 5-9 of NTNU’s academic regulations).
Students who fail their master’s thesis must apply to the department for leave to submit another master’s thesis (cf. supplementary regulations to Section 5-9 of the academic regulations for the Faculty of Humanities).


Compulsory activities:
Individual supervision.

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Requires admission to the Master’s Programme in Language and Communication in the Professions.