DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BACHELOR AND MASTER THESIS

Bachelor and Master thesis must satisfy the same criteria to a large extent. However, there is a difference in level with regard to both the content and the conduct of the research. Furthermore, the size of the theses also differs.

Knowledge

Bachelor thesis in Economics and Business must demonstrate that the student possesses substantial knowledge of (business) economics. In addition, bachelor thesis in Fiscal Economics show that the student possesses knowledge of the structure of tax legislation and tax systems. Bachelor thesis in Economics and Operations Research demonstrate that the student has thorough knowledge of economics and management science and is capable of using specialized methods and techniques.

Bachelor thesis must show that students can reflect and interpret the most important concepts within the field of study.

Master thesis must also demonstrate that the student has knowledge of a specialist subject within the field of study. Master students' knowledge must go further than that of Bachelor students, and Master theses must demonstrate in-depth and systematic knowledge of the field of study.

Insight

Bachelor students in Economics and Business are capable of analyzing and explaining phenomena and problems in government and business economics by using scientific concepts, theories and research methods. They are able to analyse, explain and assess existing policies and current affairs. Bachelor students in Fiscal Economics are able to apply legislation and jurisprudence to phenomena and problems in fiscal economics. Bachelor students in Economics and Operations Research are capable of analyzing and explaining phenomena and problems in government and business economics by using the theories and research methods of economics and management science.

Master students are capable of systematically analyzing and explaining more complex economic problems, as well as analyzing and explaining current problems from a variety of different perspectives.

Research skills

Bachelor students are capable of:

• formulating a main question and objective based on scientific concepts and theories.

• selecting research techniques that are appropriate to the main question.

• selecting suitable methods for data collection and processing.

• conducting literature study.

• drawing conclusions based on the results of their own research, and reflecting upon relevant social, scientific or ethical issues.

In addition to this, Master students are capable of:

• formulating a main question based on current scientific or societal developments. This main question must have never been answered before or it must be approached from a new perspective. The Master thesis must be of clear added value.

• using the latest research techniques and literature with a critical eye.

• reflecting on their own research with a critical eye. In doing so, Master students must take into account the basic principles and the limitations of the chosen methodology.

• establishing realistic recommendations and showing creativity and insight with regard to social and scientific standards and values.

Communication

Bachelor thesis must demonstrate that the student is capable of producing a university-level written report.

Master thesis must display that the student is capable of interpreting complex research and complex results both in writing (thesis) and verbally (thesis defense) in a way that is understandable to a wide audience.

Independence

Bachelor students carry out their research under the guidance of an ESE lecturer. Bachelor students can reflect on their own academic activities with a critical eye and can adjust their own conduct if necessary.

Master students are capable of conducting the research completely independently and displaying that they are capable of independent participation in scientific discussions.