Thesis work normally takes place in the fourth semester, but there is also an option to write a thesis that is done over a period of two semesters, worth 60 ECTS, instead of 30.
Thesis topics are chosen in cooperation with an advisor from UMB. A proposal of work must be submitted to the advisors before the 15th of May of the second semester. If the thesis will be 60 ECTS, then the student must also arrange to complete a special pensum of 5-15 ECTS. The special pensum is developed in cooperation with the thesis advisor.
It always pays to start thinking early, as it will help direct you in finding the correct “pathway” of courses for your programme. Many students begin conducting their research activities in the summer months, between the first and second year. Keeping in mind the systems perspective and skills learned in the first semester is essential to writing an appropriate and successful agroecology masters thesis.
To facilitate this process, a seminar session is held in the 2nd and 4th semesters, to connect first and second year students at UMB, and to discuss thesis topics, methodology and approaches. For those students not at UMB, it will be important to keep in close contact via email. The thesis semester finishes with a presentation of the work, and final hand-in on May 15th.
Here is some of the work done by our past students:
