Singapore University of Social Sciences

Master Thesis

Master Thesis (RSS699)

Synopsis

Students will work independently, under the guidance of a supervisor to develop proficiency in research skills. Students will be assigned supervisors based on the matching of their indicated research interests and supervisor expertise. Possible research projects that students may design could include projects related to SHBS’s research programme on well-being, or other projects to address issues related to well-being. Students will be guided by their supervisors to design and complete a research project through the entire research process. This includes conceptualising an appropriate social science master research thesis, formulating appropriate research questions, literature review, choosing suitable research design and methods, data collection and analysis and report writing. The main requirements of the thesis are a formal report of approximately 40,000 words and the oral defense.

Level: 6
Credit Units: 40
Presentation Pattern: Every semester

Topics

  • RSS699 (I) (10 cu): Introduction to research and professional research skills; Selection of topic and formulation of research questions/problem; Preliminary literature review
  • RSS699 (II) (10 cu): Literature review; Research design; Academic writing; Ethics
  • RSS699 (III) (10 cu): Data collection; Statistical training/workshops; Data analysis and interpretation; Thesis writing
  • RSS699 (IV) (10 cu): Completion of thesis; Oral defense; Amendments and final submission

Learning Outcome

  • Examine the existing literature
  • Critique the previous research
  • Assess the significance and suitability of proposed research topic in light of the existing research
  • Formulate clear research questions and hypotheses
  • Design a research project using the appropriate methods to address the research question
  • Analyze and interpret the data
  • Assess the findings, propose alternative theories and interpretations of the findings, and critique the study
  • Construct coherent arguments for the thesis and present the findings
  • Recommend areas for follow-up studies
  • Prepare formal reports and present or publish the research output
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