Course desription

The aim of the course is to develop the literature review and methods sections of the MA thesis. The students receive feedback on how to map and review existing literature, how to formulate a research question, how to select the appropriate methodological tools and how to develop a project for their diploma thesis. Furthermore, they will develop their skills in academic writing techniques. In the diploma thesis, the student must demonstrate the ability to work independently in keeping with academic standards, knowledge and understanding of the relevant scholarly literature and the ability to analyze the issue under study.

The objective of the course is to

A) finalize a MA thesis proposal, including the following sections:

1) the presentation of the topic and explanation of its social scientific relevance in the area of Sociology and/or Media Studies, including references to the existing literature 
2) formulation of research objectives and research questions   
3) definition of methods
4) expected outcomes/achievements

B) draft a Literature review

C) draft a Methods section  

Course requirements: 
1) Active participation in the course seminars
2) Submission of the following interim assignments for seminars 
a) MA thesis proposal
b) literature review
c) methods 

3) Based on the feedback received during seminars, students have the submit the final assignment.

The final assignment must consist of two parts and be 2,500 word-long (+/-10%) in total, excluding bibliographic references.

a) literature review
b) methods 

This assignment has to be based on two revised interim assignments.

All assignments must be evaluated as of sufficient quality to pass the course.

Participation in seminars is compulsory.  A maximum of two absences are permitted.

 Maximum 100 %; minimum for passing 50%.