The text below has been largely unedited. Consider it a rewrite of the above video, not an actual article.
5 quick tips for choosing a thesis or master’s thesis project
Choose a topic that can be dealt with quickly. Not a Ph.D. thesis; so you don’t have 4-5 years to do your research. All topics expand as you start writing, so choose something concise. The master’s thesis is an aptitude test and not a professional status.
Evaluate the labor market. Browse the technical skills employers require in your field. You need to understand that while qualifications are important, employers don’t really care about qualifications; especially when you have a master’s degree. If your research is good enough and your grades aren’t too low, you have nothing to worry about. It would be wise to spend your time getting good work experience with a B-level, rather than getting an A-level with no work experience.
Choose a theme that will increase your endorphins
Choose the theme that you think will wake you up in the morning.
A thesis is a great job. It’s like work plus homework. Imagine if you’re looking for a full-time job, you’d rather commit to your dream job than a random job that doesn’t interest you, right? Therefore, it is important to choose a thesis topic that you are really passionate about because you will have to spend several months living with it.
Choose the theme that makes you wake up in the morning!
What is the difference between a master’s program with thesis and a master’s program without thesis?
A thesis is a common requirement in many research-intensive fields, but not all master’s programs require you to complete one. In addition, some fields allow you to choose between a thesis follow-up and a non-thesis follow-up. In the case of a non-thesis program, you will not have to write a long paper, but you will have to take more courses to meet the graduation requirement.
Whether you choose a program with or without a thesis, you still need to complete a capstone project to test your critical thinking skills. If you are for a non-thesis program, your project may be a capstone project or field experience.
Three documents to look for before working on part of the thesis
1) School thesis model. This will give you an idea of how the different chapters and sections of the document should be organized and structured 2) Checklist/school rubric. This will identify the information needed in each section to obtain a passing “grade.” 3) Previously approved documents. Ask your chair or methodologist to provide a pre-approved document that they sat down on as a committee. This will give you an idea of what needs to be approved.
Students must establish a regular relationship with all members of their committee (chairperson, methodologist, content specialist, APA specialist, etc.). Try to schedule weekly meetings with at least one committee member so you can discuss what you’re currently working on and next goals. It’s also helpful to use video chat to share your screen so you can watch the newspaper at the same time. You can schedule meetings on Zoom, which allows you to take note of feedback from your committee.