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Master thesis

Goal of a master thesis

The master thesis project is the final step in your studies before graduation. As such its intention is to show what you have learned in your studies by applying your knowledge and capabilities in an independent scientific work. In that sense, the master thesis project becomes the crown of your academic career so far and will lay the first cornerstone for your future career.

More formally, the master thesis project is a course like any other with the only distinction that you are working independently, most often as part of a larger team or research group. The aims of the master thesis project are described in detail at the corresponding course plans. Generally, you should show that you can independently plan and carry out a project in Mathematics and present the results, in a written report and orally at a presentation, including a discussion of the prerequisites, methodology, approach and results of the work.

Components of a master thesis project

The main outcome is a project report (master thesis). Here, you will present the findings and results of your project in a scientific manner. However, the goals of a master thesis project are much broader than that: You shall show a number of capabilities, knowledge and attitudes indispensable for a scientist or engineer. Thus, further activities are required where you must show your abilities in mathematical communication. This consists of an oral presentation and discussion of your work and of being an opponent at other thesis presentations.

How to find a project

Once you are eligible for starting a master thesis project you can begin to search for a suitable project. Projects can be carried out at KTH, most often at the Department of Mathematics, or at other collaborating departments at KTH. But many projects are done at a company or other external institutions or authorities. It is also possible that you are carrying out your master thesis project abroad. It is recommended to start the search well ahead of time. Remember, you will not be the only one looking for a project! Also keep in mind that the project must have sufficient scientific level and scope. Before starting the administrative process (master thesis project application, signing of necessary agreements, and much more), you need to submit a project proposal and get it approved by your examiner.

In order to find a project proposal you may consult KTH’s Degree Project Portal . You may also look at company web sites where you will often find proposals, too. Another source of information are your professors. Often, they will have offers or can guide you to colleagues who might have interesting proposals.

More details and the administration

For each of the programs and study tracks, certain special rules apply. Before you start it is important you keep the following in mind:

  • The project is 30 credits — usually 5 months of full-time work.
  • You need to have at least 60 credit points on advanced level before you can start your project.
  • You need an advisor and an examiner. The examiner should normally be from KTH.
  • Before you start you and the examiner need to fill out a form. This form can be downloaded here (link to be added).
  • The grading is generally Pass/Fail. Exceptions may apply.
  • Link to latex style file .

More information specific to the various directions can be found at the following webpages:

Examples of typical master theses

Mathematics (TMAKM)

[2]

Scientific computing (COMA)

[2]
K. Beersing-Vasquez, "Suturing in Surgical Simulations," , 2019.
[3]
P. A. Alathur Srinivasan, "Deep Learning models for turbulent shear flow," , 2018.

Financial mathematics (FIMA)

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Last changed: Dec 03, 2019