Course content

The master thesis is an independently supervised research- and/or development work at an advanced level within one of the study program's subject- and specialization areas. The topic of the master's thesis is agreed between the student and the supervisor.

The students have to attend a mandatory introduction seminar to the master thesis beyond the established ECTS. The seminar consists of lectures and assignments which has to be passed for the students to be allowed to hand in the master thesis. The content of the seminar prepares the student for writing their thesis; such as searching for literature, writing reports, research methodology, scientific publishing and ethics, as well as giving the students an overview of opportunities for future ph.d.-studies.

The students have to give an oral presentation of the master thesis draft before submission.

Learning outcome

Having successfully completed the master thesis the candidate will fulfil the learning outcome of the study program. The learning outcome of the master thesis will focus on the candidate ability to:

• demonstrate knowledge of the chosen subject area's scientific basis and proven experience, in-depth insight into current research and development work, and in-depth methodological knowledge.
• demonstrate the ability to, with a holistic view, critically and systematically, search, collect and integrate knowledge and identify their need for further knowledge
• demonstrate the ability to identify, analyse, assess and deal with complex phenomena, issues and situations even with limited information
• demonstrate the ability to plan and with adequate methods carry out advanced tasks within given time frames and to evaluate this work
• demonstrate the ability to develop and evaluate products, processes, systems, methods or technical solutions with regard to people's conditions and needs and society's goals for economically, socially and ecologically sustainable development
• demonstrate the ability to orally and in writing in dialogue with different groups clearly account for and discuss their conclusions and the knowledge and arguments that form the basis for these
• demonstrate the ability to make assessments with regard to relevant disciplinary, social and ethical aspects
• demonstrate the skills required to participate in research and development work or to work independently in other qualified activitie
• demonstrate the ability to orally present the master thesis draft before submission

Learning outcome specific to the introductory seminar:

After having completed the introduction seminar to the master thesis the student shall: know and understand the importance of ethical research practices, as well as quality and content in research. Understand the importance of conducting thorough literature reviews. Be able to perform detailed scientific literature reviews, including searching in literature databases and the formulation of relevant methodologies. Be acquainted with the desirable quality and content of independent research. Be able to conduct accurate report writing, and thesis preparation. Know how to increase the effectiveness of their individual research. Know how to write concise scientific reports, including structuring, referencing, and avoiding plagiarism. Know ongoing research work at the Department. Be familiar with opportunities for undertaking a PhD-study and the impact of having a PhD-degree. Manage their project schedule and resources, managing expectations and change. Be able to define a project description and project plan.

Learning methods and activities

Independent project work under supervision.

Compulsory participation in an introduction seminar and preparation of project plan.

Compulsory presentation of the master thesis well in advance of submission in order to make any necessary adjustments before submission. The presentation is expected to cover both a subject-specific part and a methodology part. The presentation should last 30 minutes, including questions from the audience.

Compulsory assignments

• Oral presentation
• Participation in compulsory master seminar
• Project plan

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

The course is only accessible for students admitted to the master programmes Marine Technology (5- and 2-year norwegian programs), Engineering and ICT (5-year program) plus the international 2-year programs Marine Technology and Marine and Maritime Intelligent Robotics.

Course materials

Guideline for writing reports, lecture notes.