What? 

The Master's dissertation is a research project that students carry out independently or collectively as a learning experience. In so doing, they acquire academic-scientific skills like setting up and conducting research, and interpreting, reporting and assessing research results. A supervisor monitors the entire process.   

Expressed in ECTS credits, the study load of a Master’s dissertation counts towards at least one-fifth of the total number of ECTS credits in the curriculum, with a minimum of 15 ECTS credits and a maximum of 30 ECTS credits. The Master's dissertation course unit is programmed in the final standard study track year of the Master’s programme. The Programme Committee is responsible for devising a clear vision for the Master's dissertation. Included in that vision statement are the specific learning outcomes for the Master’s dissertation, clear preparatory competencies (curricular strands), and information on the preparation, supervision, and assessment of the Master's dissertation.

Together with the faculty and the lecturer-in-charge, the Programme Committee also vouches for all the practical aspects: up-to-date course sheets and other supporting documents (manual or roadmap), an orderly selection process of Master's dissertation topics, clear communication with students, lecturers and external parties (if relevant), ... It pursues a policy that complies with the Master’s dissertation provisions in the Education and Examination Code and, if necessary, with faculty-specific stipulations.     

Why? 

By decree, each Master’s programme must contain a Master’s dissertation. According to the Higher Education Code, the Master’s dissertation testifies to the student’s “general critical-reflective attitude and/or research attitude”.  The Master’s dissertation is the final component of the Master’s programme. Students demonstrate their ability to apply and develop academic-scientific competencies they have acquired in the form of an independent piece of research.  Students have the opportunity to develop generic competencies such as self-reflection, self-management, critical thinking and problem-solving, creativity and innovation, and academic integrity.  

 

Investing in a clear vision statement for the Master’s dissertation will enhance the quality of supervision and, ultimately, the finished product. This, in turn, will benefit the quality (and position) of the study programme.