Course syllabus - Thesis for the Degree of Master of Science (120 credits) in Computer Science

Objectives

The course shall provide an insight into how to independently plan, carry out and present a project in computer science. During the work, the student is expected to apply and integrate previously acquired knowledge, experiences and skills, and thereby further deepen their understanding of the field. The objective with the work is for the student to develop and demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills consistent with a work in the field of computer science.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course the student shall be able to:

- independently plan and carry out an advanced project within given constraints

- identify and use appropriate methods for carrying out the work and verifying the solutions

- describe the purpose, reason, and goal of the work and account for a possible continuation of the project

- apply a critical approach and thereby be able to identify potential opportunities and difficulties of the project at an early stage

- analyse scientific problems and account for the "state-of-the-art" (and "state-of-practice" if applicable) in the field of the thesis and evaluate the selected method and/or solution based on this

- describe the different parts of the project in a scientific report with appropriate content and structure (and thereby show that the above learning outcomes have been achieved)

- orally describe the purpose, execution, and results of the project for both experts and non-experts

- evaluate and provide constructive criticism (both orally and in writing) of other advanced works

Course content

The course consists of an independent project in computer science, in which students use previously acquired knowledge and experiences to solve a given problem. The problem is a research or development problem in the field of computer science, which shall have substantial theoretical depth that contributes to knowledge development. The work shall contain both practical and theoretical elements. It includes topic selection, problem definition, literature review, implementation, opposition, presentation and writing of the report. The thesis can be conducted either within the university, at an outside company, or as an independent project. If the thesis is performed at a company, a supervisor at the company must also be appointed. The problem underlying the work shall be thoroughly presented, and its relevance and proposed solutions shall be discussed and justified. The work shall address both relevant theory and previous research, i.e. there must be a connection to the "state-of-the-art" (and, when applicable to the "state-of-practice"). 

Tuition

The thesis project is conducted under supervision. A project plan shall be formulated in cooperation with the supervisor(s) and monitored throughout the project.

Specific requirements

A Bachelor's degree from an institution of higher education of three years or more, equivalent to at least 180 ECTS credits and completed courses corrresponding to 30 ECTS credits in computer science at advanced level, 7,5 ECTS credits in mathematics at level G1F or higher and 37,5 ECTS credits in selectable courses where no more than 30 credits may be courses at basic level. Completed course Research Methods in the Natural Sciences and Engineering 7.5 ECTS credits.

Examination

Exercise (INL1), Oral and written opposition to another thesis, 1 credit, marks Pass (G) 
Participation (NÄR1), Attendance at the presentation of another thesis, 0,5 credits, marks Pass (G)
Participation (NÄR2), Attendance at the presentation of another thesis, 0,5 credits, marks Pass (G)
Project (PRO1), Completion of the project and written thesis report 26,5 credits, marks Pass (G)
Seminar (SEM1), Oral presentation of the approved thesis, 2 credits, marks Pass (G) 

Grades are assigned by the examiner as an assessment of the overall work, including the content of the report, oral presentation, opposition, independence and attitude during the work (supported by inputs from the supervisor).

When the thesis work is done in pair, the examiner ensures that that the work of each student meets the requirements for an individual thesis work. If the workload between two students is different, different grades can be given.

Students whose work is not completed within 12 months are liable to fail the course. When necessary, the decision is made in consultation between the examiner, supervisor and possibly the head of the division.

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, Fail

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

The course completely overlaps with CDT504 Thesis advanced level, Computer Science, 30 credits.

If the thesis is to be included in another exam than the Degree of Master of Science (120 credits) in Computer Science, then this has to be approved by the examiner on a case by case basis.