The grading of master's theses (MNT)

Vibeke Olsbu

The Grading of Master's Theses in Mathematics, Science and Technology Subjects (MNT)

Dear student,

The Quality Reform introduced letter grades in 2003 based on the ECTS scale. The scale goes from A to E, and has a qualitative description of each grade. With respect to the grading of master's theses, statistics show that the grades A and B are awarded most often.

Despite the focus on this, the grading of master's theses has not changed to any noticeable extent since the introduction of letter grades.

Changed grade descriptions will entail better use of the whole grade scale, which will also mean a change for the master´s students as well as for the students' future employers and educational institutions to which they are admitted.

In relation to students who are assessed in accordance with the new system, it is important that the change does not make it more difficult for them to compete.

A separate information sheet will therefore be prepared for potential employers, with an updated description of the grading in diplomas and diploma supplements.

This change will only affect the form of assessment, not the way in which the students work on their master's theses. The only real consequence for you as a student, therefore, is that the grading of your master's thesis will reflect the quality of the work to a greater extent than previously.

Phasing in the system
The new grading system for master's theses in MNT subjects will enter into force for students starting a two-year master's degree programme, or the two last years of an integrated master's degree programme, in the adacemic year 2012/2013, i.e. those who would normally submit their master's thesis in spring 2014.

Nominal length of study
Submission in accordance with the nominal length of study is a precondition for the master's thesis to be graded. Therefore, submission in accordance with the nominal length of study has been included as an item in the guidelines for academic supervisors.

Grade descriptions
Each individual grade is described on the basis of five points: (1) general comments, (2) theoretical overview, insight and choice of methods, (3) performance (level, technical skill, scope), (4) research and development (R&D), and (5) presentation. Descriptions of the individual grades are structured in a corresponding manner. The description of the performance in relation to these five points will vary.

Assessment by supervisors and examiners
In order to achieve a uniform understanding of the grade descriptions, guidelines have been prepared for supervisors and examiners. In these guidelines, the terms used in the grade descriptions are further clarified and exemplified in order to help underline what should be emphasised in the assessment.

Standardised grading form
A standardised grading form has been prepared to ensure a uniform weight of the different aspects of a master's thesis. The form is intended to serve as a tool in determining a grade that is the sum of all the sub-assessments.

Published: 01.03.12
Updated: 05.07.12
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