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English Department

Master Thesis

For general content, learning aims etc., see the general module description.

Whom Can You Choose as Your Supervisor?

  • The Master Thesis is usually supervised by a professor.
  • Other members of staff holding a PhD degree are also allowed to supervise Master Theses. Note, however, that they are not obliged to do so.
  • To find out what types of topics individual instructors may be interested in supervising, you can consult their homepages. You can find links to all instructors' homepages via the UZH English Department's Staff List.

When to Contact Potential Supervisors?

Make sure to contact a potential supervisor prior to booking the Master Thesis online – ideally at the end of the preceding semester, but no later than:

  • August 5 if wishing to book the two-semester module in the fall semester;
  • January 5 if wishing to book the two-semester module in the spring semester.

When and How Do I Book the Master Thesis?

  • The Master Thesis must be booked online, during the module booking period. Note that you cannot book the module without having found a supervisor first. 

By When Do I Need to Submit?

How Long Should the Master Thesis Be?

Usually, the Master Thesis is between c. 20,000 and 30,000 words (not counting the bibliography). Note, however, that supervisors may accept theses that are shorter or longer. In other words, if in doubt, discuss the question of length with your supervisor.

Please also consult the following documents:

How Much Supervision? And What If I Don't Hear Back?

You are expected to conduct most of your research for the Master Thesis independently. However, supervisors will of course be happy to provide a certain level of guidance.

Important:

  • At the start of the supervision process, you should discuss the mode of supervision with your supervisor (e.g. Will there be regular meetings? How often are you allowed/supposed to contact your supervisor?)
  • Should you encounter any major problems, then please make sure to get in touch with your supervisor as early as possible!

Supervisors at the UZH English Department will try to respond to as soon as possible. 

Should you not not hear back from your supervisor after one week, please send them a short reminder.

If you still do not hear back from your supervisor a week after your second message, you should contact the study advisor at englishstudies@es.uzh.ch .

Please take into consideration that during the semester break instructors may be away from their desk, so it might take longer for them to answer.