Thesis RMA Musicology

Course goals

Content

The thesis is the capstone of the RMA programme. The student practices research skills through writing a thesis consisting of original research, produced under the guidance of a research supervisor. The thesis applies the research skills learned throughout the programme to produce a significant piece of original research.

The RMA thesis is a scholarly text in which you contribute, on the basis of independent research, to a debate within your discipline. It is structured around a central research question (set out in the introductory sections) to which it provides an answer (set out in the conclusion). The central research question is clearly formulated at the beginning and its relevance to scholarly discussions within the discipline set out. The body of the text shows how you went about trying to answer this question, why you proceeded the way you did, and what your findings were. In your conclusion you analyse your findings in the light of your original question and explain the broader implications of your conclusions. The thesis is written in correct and clear English; it will normally be around 20.000 words long and should be no longer than 25.000 words (including notes).

Additional information

Please note: Only open to students in the RMA Programme Musicology with at least 55 EC in the core curriculum and/or electives. Registration through the Student Information Desk.

Career orientation:
The RMA thesis is essential in preparing students for a PhD programme, but also for alternative career paths by offering training in the following transferable skills: designing an original large research project independently, project management, academic and critical thinking and writing, data collection, responding to feedback, and advanced language skills.
 
Training in written and oral presentation of research. Designing and carrying out an original large research project. Responding to feedback. Independent research.