Master´s Degree Thesis in environmental science, 30 Credits

Contents

During the course the student performs and presents a scientific study on the subject by applying knowledge and skills acquired during their studies. This occurs in conditions similar to those in a vocational situation. The course also includes review and comment on a similar work.

The course is divided into the following modules:
Module 1. Project description according to instructions, 1 hp
Module 2. Execution, 29 hp

Expected learning outcomes

After finished course, for the grade Passed, the student shall be able to:

Module 1. Project description according to instructions, 1 credit
ELO 1. Create a feasible project plan for a thesis, with a content and workload that matches the extent and topic of the course
ELO 2. Make assessments regarding relevant societal and ethical aspects in relation to the project
 

Module 2, Execution and presentation, 29 credits
ELO 3. Use subject and scientific knowledge and abilities to solve questions within the subject field
ELO 4. Independently choose a method/methods that is/are relevant to current research question
ELO 5. Use a scientific approach
ELO 6. In writing and orally present a scientific study to a range of audiences
ELO 7. Defend a scientific study within the subject field
ELO 8. Account for and analyze central theories and results within the chosen subject field
ELO 9. Carry out a study with a content and workload that matches the extent of the course
ELO 10. Constructively review and comment on similar work

After finished course, for the grade Passed with Distinction, the student shall be able to:

Module 2, Execution and presentation, 29 credits
ELO 11. Carry out and present a project within given timeframe
ELO 12. Independently gather new knowledge to solve the task
ELO 13. Identify, evaluate and make relevant prioritization when presenting and discussing own results, with consideration of project aim
ELO 14. Discuss own results from a wider perspective than what is directly related to the specific system/research question of the study
ELO 15. In writing and orally present a scientific study with logical and communicative precision
ELO 16. Constructively defend the own study
ELO 17. Critically act as the opponent on a similar study

Required Knowledge

Univ: 180 credits, of which Transition towards a sustainable society 15 credits, Sustainability science 15 credits, Analysis of environmental changes 15 credits and a degree thesis at the bachelor's level in environmental science, environmental health, earth sciences / natural geography or biology.
Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.  

Form of instruction

The thesis is carried out under supervision. The course structure is planned jointly by students, supervisors and course coordinator. The planning of the thesis must be approved by the course coordinator prior to the start. The thesis can be planned to be conducted in several sub-periods, but the total time should correspond to the time of a conventional course with the same number of credits. A supervisor for the thesis is normally appointed at an academic institution. For theses that are made outside the university will also be appointed a mentor / contact person in the workplace. The thesis is presented in a written report and presented and defended at a seminar. The student will also carry out a reveiw on a similar work. Student works individually.

Supervision is received during the period / periods of the approved work plan and to an extent according to departmental evaluation rules for theses.

Examination modes

Examination is caried out on the independent work as documented in a written report in accordance with the formalities relating to EMG's series theses. The examination also includes the report be defended at a seminar, and the reveiw on the other report. Section 1 is grade Fail (U) or Pass (G). Section 2 and the course as a whole is graded Fail (U), Pass (G) or Pass with distinction (VG). For the grade Pass, the student must fulfill all expected study outcomes for the grade Pass. For the grade Pass with Distinction, the student must also fulfill all expected study outcome for the grade Pass with Distinction. Students who fail the examination have the right to resit them to pass (HF Chap. 6 § 22), and the student who twice failed an examination, have the right to the head of department of Ecology and Environmental Science to request a different teacher be appointed to determine the grade. Those who pass the tests can not resit the higher grades. To pass the course requires that all examinations and compulsory modules are approved. The grade is an overall assessment of the results of examinations of different parts and given when all compulsory parts are approved. 

Departures from the form of examination can be made for a student who has a decision for educational support due to a disability. Individual adaptation of the examination form must be considered based on the student's needs. The form of examination is adapted within the framework of the syllabus's expected study results. At the request of the student, the teacher responsible for the course, in consultation with the examiner, must quickly decide on a suitable examination form. The decision must then be notified to the student.

Crediting
Students have the right to have their previous education or equivalent knowledge and skills acquired in the profession tested whether it can be credited for the corresponding course at Umeå University. Application for credit is submitted to the Student Centre / Examinations. For more information on credit transfer available on Umeå University's student web, www.student.umu.se, and the Higher Education Ordinance (Chapter 6). A refusal of accreditation may be appealed against (Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 12) to the University Appeals Board. This applies to the whole as well as part of the application if accreditation is refused.

Other regulations

In the event that the course plan ceases to apply or undergoes major changes, students are guaranteed at least three exam opportunities (including regular examinations) according to the rules in the syllabus that the student was originally registered for, for a maximum of two years from the date of expiry of the previous course plan or the course ceased being offered.