Formal requirements for content and structure
The following aspects are emphasized in grading:
Consistency
- Whether the candidate completes what is stated as the purpose of the thesis both in terms of theory, method, and analysis.
- Whether there is a connection between the different parts of the thesis.
- Reflection on possible continuations of the work within the research field, ie positioning of one´s own contribution in relation to existing contributions within one or more of the field's traditions.
Presentation, language and structure
- Ability to express oneself clearly and comprehensibly in the language in which the thesis is written.
- Clarity and structure in the presentation.
Theme
- Focus on and delimitation of the research paper.
- Whether the formulation of the theme and proposed research question(s) are clear and researchable within the framework of a master's thesis.
Literature (theory and previous research)
- Positioning in relation to literature and previous research in the field in a conceptual and (if relevant) empirical sense.
- Through the use of literature, the candidate demonstrates an understanding of and ability to apply theory in a research project.
Method and research design
- Ability to carry out the project in accordance with current method criteria – concerning selection, delimitation, and collection of material.
Analysis and interpretation
- Analysis rather than pure replication of observations.
Findings and conclusion
- Critical reflection and ability to synthesize findings and discuss the study's implications.
Research ethics
- Maintaining good research practice and adhering to recognized research norms.
- Thoroughness in connection with the use of sources and bibliography.
- Referencing original sources in the most central parts of the paper that form the basis of the thesis.
- Clarifying and reflecting on your relationship to field sources.
The scope of the thesis
The master's thesis must be between 23,000 and 30,000 words, excluding the literature list and any attachments.
Formal content requirements
Summary
The paper must contain a summary of 1-2 pages that is entered in a standardized form. The summary should be first in the thesis.
Page numbering, table of contents and literature list
The master's thesis must:
- be page numbered
- have a table of contents
- have a literature list
Front page of the master's thesis
The front page of the master's thesis must state:
- the title of the master's thesis
- the author's name
- semester and year
- field of study
- University, faculty and department.
Cover template for the master's thesis
Use the university library's cover template.
Other quality requirements
- All formal requirements for written work must be followed. Check out the University library's page on writing and referencing, as well as formal requirements. We recommend that you use the APA referencing style and this formal structural guidelines.
- Projects involving the processing of personal data are to be reported to the Norwegian Social Science Data Service (NSD), see: The data protection officer in regards to research.
- You follow the guidelines that apply regarding privacy protection and research papers.
Resource page
The Search & Write website describes formal requirements for a master's thesis, what to include, tips on how to work with styles and headings.