MA Thesis Project Sample Clauses

MA Thesis Project. The Master thesis is an important stage and final product of the MA study programmes at the OSCE Academy. It demonstrates a student’s ability to conduct original research and present its findings in an academically correct way. The process of implementing a thesis project improves students’ research, analytical, and writing skills. The result must be an independent work demonstrating a student’s comprehensive understanding of the subject investigated, application of appropriate research methods and analytical tools, as well as the ability to present results in a clear and precise manner in writing and as an oral presentation (defense). A final MA thesis should be the result of student’s independent research efforts. The ultimate responsibility for its successful completion rests with a student. For the purpose of facilitating students’ research efforts, the OSCE Academy offers its support in the form of preparatory courses, guidance provided by supervisors, and assistance in conducting field research or accessing resources. However, all of these cannot substitute for a student’s responsibility to choose and define a topic, develop a methodology, conduct research and analyze data, draft a thesis paper, and submit it in time. A thesis needs to have a clear purpose of resolving an academic problem, demonstrating substantial and persuasive evidence, and providing contribution to the body of knowledge existing on a particular subject in a proper academic manner. A mere description or compilation of already known information is not enough. Careful selection of a thesis topic and development of a strong research proposal are the key elements for writing a successful master thesis. Students are required to undertake the following actions as part of their work on MA theses: • choose a topic relevant to the current and ongoing debates in academia; • develop a question/ or questions targeting the under-research area; • outline a hypothesis/ or hypotheses guiding the scientific inquiry; • design a methodology to organize and inform collection of (empirical) data; • create an analytical framework to review, structure, and interpret the collected data and material; and • present research explanations and findings. Students are encouraged to consult with various scholars and professors and incorporate their advice and recommendations – sometimes complementing, sometimes not – into students’ efforts for developing thesis projects. Students are expected to have initial ide...