Specialization Project

Preparatory project for the master's thesis. This includes:

a) Choosing a research assignment, optionally an advanced development task with research elements.

b) Addressing the problem by studying background literature in the field, current research literature and, if relevant, through discussions with the "problem owner".

c) Describing the motivation for the assignment.

d) Describing the state of the art / research front in the field.

e) Formulating the specific objective(s) / research question(s) / hypothesis(es) for the master's thesis.

f) Describing a proposed method to achieve the objective(s) and, if relevant, verify the result.

g) Becoming familiar with the tools that are planned to be used in the work.

h) Preparing an initial plan for the work towards the master's thesis, including: description of sub-tasks, progress, resource utilization and milestones.

i) As far as time permits, the candidate should conduct and report preparatory work on the assignment.

A. Knowledge:

1) In-depth background knowledge of the chosen research assignment.

2) Motivation for the chosen assignment, including being able to see it in a wider context.

B. Skills:

1) Establishing a complete plan for a research-oriented project, optionally with development elements.

2) Finding, testing and evaluating tools to handle the selected problem.

3) Reflecting upon how the chosen assignment relates to the UN sustainability goals.

C. General competence:

1) Application of scientific working methods. This includes acquiring additional information and knowledge through literature studies and similar, and combining this with one's own knowledge.

2) Giving brief oral presentations of work and results.

3) Writing project reports / project plans according to the (best) common practice.

Individual (or group) project work with guidance. Seminars to cover generic elements in the project work are conducted if needed. Compulsory oral presentation of the project work. It is also compulsory to attend the entire presentation day. Students are expected to be active in the discussions following other students' project presentations; specific responsibilities may be assigned.