Course syllabus - Degree Project in English

Objectives

The objective of the course is to familiarize students with scientific procedure in carrying out a study focusing on communication in English – and in producing a scientific thesis on the basis of this study. Typically, the study will be carried out in cooperation with a company, public authority or some other organization. The course thus provides the opportunity for in-depth study of some aspect or aspects of communication in English and the English language, as well as for continued training in scientific writing with a high degree of correctness.
 

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to:
 
- define a suitable research area within English as the main field of study, with a focus on communication in English
- independently plan and carry out a study within the main field of study, while applying relevant theoretical perspectives and adequate methods
- search for, choose, understand and critically assess scientific and predominantly English-language sources relevant to the research task in question, as well as to relate their own study to previous research
- reflect upon the gathered knowledge in a structured manner and relate it to the chosen research task, including societal and ethical aspects
- write a substantial scientific thesis in academic English and in accordance with the requirements of the genre
- receive and evaluate criticism and input from others, as well as to assess other students’ projects and offer constructive criticism
 

Course content

- completion of a scientific study regarding communication in English, typically in cooperation with a company, public authority or other organization, and writing a corresponding thesis or report in English
- defense of own project as well as assessment and discussion of other students’ theses
 

Tuition

Teaching and learning take place by way of seminars, individual supervision and independent work. The ICT components require internet access. Participation in all scheduled teaching activities is mandatory.
The course may also be offered as distance education via a web-based course platform. Even in this case, mandatory meetings may occur.
 

Specific requirements

English 1, 30 credits, and English 2, 30 credits (of which at least 22.5 credits passed at the start of the course), or the equivalent.
 

Examination

Thesis with critical discussion (UPS1), 15 credits, marks Pass (G) or Pass with distinction (VG).

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding a disability has the opportunity to submit a request for supportive measures during written examinations or other forms of examination, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Examinations at First-cycle and Second-cycle Level at Mälardalen University (2020/1655). It is the examiner who takes decisions on any supportive measures, based on what kind of certificate is issued, and in that case which measures are to be applied.

Suspicions of attempting to deceive in examinations (cheating) are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, and are examined by the University’s Disciplinary Board. If the Disciplinary Board considers the student to be guilty of a disciplinary offence, the Board will take a decision on disciplinary action, which will be a warning or suspension.

Grade

Pass with distinction, Pass, Fail