The MSc Research represents the culmination of the Earth Sciences Master’s programmes. When conducting MSc research, the student demonstrates skills to pursue independent research and shows advanced knowledge in the field of the MSc programmes. The student demonstrates the capability to apply and to integrate advanced knowledge in order to interpret scientific results and to answer research questions. Performing MSc research includes a critical study of the relevant scientific literature, and application of the gathered information to accomplish the research objectives. The MSc research is mandatory for all students and encompasses a credit load of at least 30 ECTS and a maximum of 45 ECTS. The allocated number of ECTS credits should be a multiple of 7.5 (e.g. 30, 37.5, or 45 ECTS credits). The difference in duration should reflect the difference in working time required for establishing the data base for the project and not be associated with different profundity. This implies that the same assessment criteria apply for MSc theses irrespective of duration. The MSc research encompasses a written report (MSc thesis) and an oral presentation, both obligatory in English, which complete the independent research assignment of the Earth Sciences Master’s programmes. The thesis should – in principle – contain material of publishable quality.
