Philosophy - Master's Thesis

Level of Study

Master

Teaching semester

Spring and Fall

Objectives and Content

The Master thesis must demonstrate the student's ability to approach systematically and independently a philosophical issue, as well as identify and articulate key-concepts, arguments and positions in that particular problem area. The Master thesis can either consist of one longer piece of work, or of several smaller works (papers) that stand in close relationship with each other. If the student chooses to write such a `composite¿ master thesis, this should contain an Introduction in which s/he explains how the parts (papers) hang together. The total length of the thesis shall be in accordance with the faculty's regulations regarding such work.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge:

After completing the course, the student should have

• good knowledge of literature, concepts, arguments and positions falling within the theme of master's thesis

Skills:

After completing the course, the student should be able to

• work systematically and independently with philosophical issues
• master the literature search, review and use of research literature

Competence:

After completing the course, the student should be competent to

• demonstrate the ability to explain the subject to a non-specialist audience, for example in the form of teaching in secondary school (high school)

Furthermore, the material covered in the master's thesis can serve as the basis of an application for studies at the doctoral level. The student should also have the capacity to prepare qualified assessments and serve as an adviser on topics related to the thesis¿ theme.

Required Previous Knowledge

Bachelor degree with 90 credits specializing in philosophy or equivalent.

Recommended Previous Knowledge

Students should have completed the course part of the Master's program before the Master's thesis. A good proficiency in English is necessary since it ought to be assumed that much of the prescribed reading will be in English.

Access to the Course

A condition for entry into this course is having been accepted for the Masters programme in philosophy.

Teaching and learning methods

Work on the master's thesis equals 2 semesters and is normally taken in the last two semesters of the study program

It is a prerequisite that the student at regular intervals discusses the Master's thesis with their academic supervisor

See master contract for the master's program for the number of tutoring hours and other rights and obligations which are attached to the study

Compulsory Assignments and Attendance

An approval of compulsory requirements is valid for three semesters, including the semester in which the approval is given.

Student and supervisor enter both sign a binding supervision contract in which rights and duties are clarified.

Forms of Assessment

The thesis must be between 70 and 110 pages (25000-40000 words). See supplementary regulations for the Faculty of Humanities. Master thesis shall be delivered digitaly.

The student shall have an oral exam, after which the grade for the Master's thesis can at most be raised or lowered by one letter grade.

Exams in the course are held every semester.

The compulsory activities have to be formally approved before one can take an exam in the course.

Grading Scale

From A to F

Course Evaluation

The teaching will be evaluated from time to time.