THESIS-BASED MASTER’S PROGRAM
What is the purpose of the thesis-based master’s program?
The thesis-based master’s program enables students to gain the ability to access, compile, interpret, and evaluate information using scientific research methods.
How many courses and credits are required in AGU's Thesis-Based Master’s Program?
The thesis-based master’s program consists of at least seven courses totaling no less than twenty-one credits, including an ethics course (GCC 1001), a seminar course (XXX500), a specialization course (XXX597), and a thesis project (XXX599). The seminar course, specialization course, and thesis project are non-credit and are evaluated as pass or fail. The program includes at least eight courses, the seminar course, the specialization course, and the thesis project, totaling at least 120 ECTS, with each semester providing at least 60 ECTS. From the semester following the assignment of an advisor, the student must register for the specialization course and thesis project each term. The specialization course and thesis project can be taken alongside other credit courses.
In AGU's Thesis-Based Master’s Program, which courses are credited, and which are evaluated as pass/fail?
The seminar course, Specialization Course, and Thesis Project are non-credit and evaluated as pass or fail. The remaining eight courses are credited, and students must have a total of at least 24 credits to graduate.
Is the course "Introduction to Scientific Research Methods and Scientific Publication Ethics" (GCC-1001) credited? Does it count as one of the eight required courses? Is it mandatory?
Yes, this course is credited and is mandatory for graduation (applicable to all departments). The grade from this course is included in the GPA and counts as one of the eight required courses.
Are there other mandatory courses besides "Introduction to Scientific Research Methods and Scientific Publication Ethics" (GCC-1001)?
Each department may have specific mandatory courses. The number and content of these courses should be checked with the relevant department where the master’s degree is being pursued.
Can I take graduate courses offered by other higher education institutions in AGU’s Thesis-Based Master’s Program?
With the recommendation of the department chair and the approval of the institute’s administrative board, up to two (2) graduate courses offered in 100% English at other higher education institutions may be taken in the Master’s program.
Can I select undergraduate courses in AGU’s Thesis-Based Master’s Program?
Up to two (2) undergraduate courses may be selected, provided they were not taken during undergraduate studies and that their content is suitable. Taking these courses in the graduate program requires the approval of the advisor and the department chair.
What is an academic advisor in AGU’s Thesis-Based Master’s Program, and how long do they serve?
For newly registered students, the relevant department chair appoints a course advisor at the beginning of the first semester to guide students on course selection. The student completes only the first semester with this course advisor. The appointment of a course advisor does not require approval from the Institute and is not discussed in the administrative board. From the start of the second semester, the student continues with the appointed thesis advisor.
How long does a student have to complete the seminar course and the seven (credited) graduate courses in AGU’s Thesis-Based Master’s Program?
The maximum time allowed to complete these courses is four (4) semesters. If a student does not successfully complete these courses by the end of the fourth semester, they are dismissed from the institution.
When is a thesis advisor assigned in a Master’s program? When is the thesis topic determined?
In the thesis-based master’s program, the department chair assigns a thesis advisor from the university’s faculty for each student no later than the end of the first semester. The thesis topic, chosen by the student with their advisor’s guidance, is proposed to the institute no later than the end of the second semester. The thesis advisor and topic are finalized with the approval of the institute’s administrative board.
Under what circumstances can a second thesis advisor be appointed, and who can be selected?
If the nature of the thesis work requires multiple advisors, a second advisor with at least a doctoral degree may be appointed from outside the university’s faculty.
What is the duration of AGU’s Thesis-Based Master’s Program?
The duration of the thesis-based master’s program, excluding the scientific preparation period, is a minimum of four (4) semesters, regardless of enrollment status each semester, beginning from the term the student registered in the program. The program must be completed within a maximum of six (6) semesters. If the student fails the thesis project or does not defend the thesis within these six semesters, they will be dismissed from the institution.
What GPA is required to graduate from AGU’s Thesis-Based Master’s Program?
A student must have a cumulative GPA of no less than 3.00 to graduate. If the GPA falls below 3.00, the student must take additional or new courses within the designated course period to meet the minimum GPA requirement.
What is the minimum passing grade for courses in AGU’s Thesis-Based Master’s Program?
The minimum passing grade for students in the thesis-based Master’s program is “C+, 2.33.”