How do I choose a master thesis topic?

Now I would like to step back in time to give you a rough idea of ​​how I chose the subject of my thesis. I attended Aston University in UK for my Masters program in Pharmacology (2008-2009). The main part of my master’s program was the thesis. Not only did my thesis carry the maximum number of credits, but it was also to influence the direction of my career after graduation. I knew that 3-4 months is not a good period of time to make breakthrough discoveries. After all, it was my master’s thesis and not a doctorate. thesis. However, I needed something intellectually stimulating. Therefore, I focused more on restoring previous conclusions and assumptions. My main focus was on what questions to ask and how to conduct a research study. Second, I was eager to learn more about molecular pharmacology and the interplay between neuroscience and cardiovascular medicine. Additionally, I had to focus on learning useful lab techniques that could be used. Therefore, I was very thoughtful and strategic in choosing my thesis topic. After considering three options, I decided to base my thesis on the study of the “Role of RAMP1 in the binding of adrenomedullin to the CGRP receptor”.

Step 2: Choose a broad area of ​​research

Start thinking about your areas of interest in the subject you are studying. Here are examples of general ideas:

  • Twentieth century literature
  • Economic history
  • Health policy

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  • Combine ideas to create a deep concept that addresses an old question in a new way.
  • Look for opportunities in the published work of other professionals and students.
  • Embrace your creative side.
  • Before committing to an idea, test it.
  • Create a magnetic file containing a list of keywords.

The time has finally come to tackle the dissertation. It’s an exciting time, but also a daunting one, as you’re going to be devoting the next year or more of your life to an important project that will have a huge impact on your professional life. The most common trick is to find a topic that interests you, but it’s not always easy to relate to it in general and create tight content that will appeal to professionals in your field. The following tips will help you navigate the process, from brainstorming to final commitment.

Be original

Little new research and theories. They are built on previous information. However, that doesn’t mean ideas can’t take off in new directions or that new questions can’t be asked. What makes something innovative is the turn the author takes. Students can use existing knowledge and information as building blocks for an entirely new concept. This is what the subjects of a good school thesis are about.

Once the students have formulated an idea, it is important to further develop this base by consulting the current academic or scientific literature on the subject. Find out if this particular approach has already been covered. If the idea looks like a new idea, see how it compares or contrasts with similar theories. This will allow the author of the thesis to be sure that his idea is relevant to the current literature. A survey of work in progress also allows the student to refine their ideas more precisely. The more informed they are about the subject and related subjects, the more precise their thesis path will be. They will also be better able to advocate for their ideas and ensure that the proposed content has value and viability.

Overview: how to find and choose a research topic

  1. Understand the research process
  2. Review a previous thesis from your university
  3. Review academic literature to start the thinking process
  4. Identify your potential research questions (topics) and your shortlist
  5. Refine, then assess your shortlist of research topics
  6. Make the decision (and stick to it!)

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