Degree project
A degree project is an independent work in your main field of study — a requirement for graduating. How you present it varies: most commonly as a written thesis, but it can also take the form of an exhibition or presentation. Check your course syllabus for what applies to you.
Your degree includes independent work
Your degree always includes independent work, sometimes referred to as a degree project, thesis, or dissertation. It is a course where you explore a topic within your main field of study – the number of credits depends on your level of study.
If you are on a programme, your syllabus will show when the course is scheduled. If you are building your own degree, the independent work is a freestanding course – a study counsellor can help you find the right one.
How you present your independent work depends on your programme and the degree you are taking. You will often write a thesis, but in arts programmes it may be presented through, for example, an exhibition, a reading, or a showcase.
How the project works:
- Before starting, you take a methods course to prepare
- Choose and narrow down a topic
- Plan the project and choose a method
- Collect and analyse material
- Write or create the project
- You will be supported by a supervisor
- The project usually ends with an oral presentation, a defence of your work, and an opposition on a fellow student's work
Information about your course
Before the course starts, you can read the course syllabus to find out what applies. Your teacher or course coordinator will usually inform you in good time about how the course is structured – for example, topic selection, supervisor, important dates, and how to present your work. During the project, you will find practical information about the course on Canvas as usual, unless stated otherwise.
Good to know
Degree project abroad
Some programmes offer the opportunity to complete your independent work abroad. This can give you access to data, environments, and contacts not available in Sweden.
Thesis template
Many departments have templates and guidelines to help you structure your thesis. In some cases, you are required to use a specific template.
Previous independent work
Reading other students independent work can give you an idea of how others have approached it. You can search for previous independent work in GUPEA, the University's system for publishing theses and other publications.
Support with planning and writing
The University and the library offer support, including:
Personal data
If you are collecting personal data – for example through interviews or surveys – there are several things you need to consider. Read more on the page Personal data in your studies.
Publish your thesis in GUPEA
Once your thesis has been approved, it can be published in GUPEA – the University of Gothenburg's open access repository. It will be uploaded as a PDF and made freely searchable online.
Your department is responsible for publishing, but your approval is required. If you want your thesis to be uploaded, you will need to sign an agreement. Not all departments publish student theses.