MSc Thesis

Student Guide: Before and During the Master’s Thesis (TFM)

Thesis supervision:

All of the members of the Theory Department @ UAM and of the IFT UAM/CSIC are offering the possibility to write the MSc thesis with them.

Thesis topics 2024-2025:

In the document here and in the link here, all the possible projects for a MSc thesis are listed for a PEC and AFC specialization respectively. Please note that the MSc thesis is not restricted to be selected from this list; this list simply reflects research interests of potential supervisors. You always have the option to talk to the members and come up with a new project.

Note that each project has to be a work worth 12 ECTS which translates to 300 hours (ca. 8 weeks) of work. The work will primarily be undertaken during (and after) the third trimester, but you are free to start as early as possible. There will be two calls to present the master thesis: one in end-June/early July and another one in early-September.

1. Before Starting Your TFM

a) Presentation of Thesis Offers and Topic Selection

A specific session will be organized for the presentation of TFM topics and offers. Please pay attention to this call to explore the available options and make an informed decision aligned with your interests.

b) Mandatory Forms After Choosing Your TFM

Once you have selected your topic and supervisor, you must complete and submit the following documents to the ethics committee:

  • Annex 2c (Excel format).

  • Annex 1B (Word format).

Important: We will provide you with all the updated documents by email.

c) External Supervision (Supervisor Outside UAM)

If your supervisor is external to the Autonomous University of Madrid, you must:

  • Complete the external supervision request form, with the help of your external supervisor.

  • Obtain the signature of your UAM academic tutor.

  • Submit the signed form to the relevant administrative office.

  • After administrative approval, both you and your supervisor must complete additional external supervision documents.

Important: These procedures are mandatory to comply with current regulations, including legal matters such as Social Security.

d) Authorization to Start the TFM

You may only begin your TFM once all forms and procedures have been properly completed and approved.

2. During Your TFM

Monitoring and Supervision

  • It is recommended to carry out periodic check-ins to ensure proper supervision.

  • If any problems arise, communicate promptly to seek solutions. You may contact:

Recommendations for Effective Work Management

  • Maintain a consistent work rhythm throughout the course. Avoid leaving your TFM until the last minute.

  • The master’s coordination team will regularly check in with you and your supervisors to monitor progress and offer support if needed.

  • Feel free to reach out to us anytime for guidance or assistance.

3. TFM Presentation and Submission

Documents to Prepare and Submit Before the Presentation

  • Supervision Report (Annex 3): to be completed and signed by the supervisor and, if applicable, the tutor. It also includes the proposed grade (from 0 to 15). This is a confidential document and must be sent directly by the supervisor to the tribunal secretary.

  • Rights Assignment (Annex 6): must be signed by the student.

  • Confidentiality Agreement (Annex 7): must be signed by both student and supervisor.

  • External Supervision Annex: must be signed and submitted before starting the TFM, if applicable.

Important: We will provide you with all the updated documents by email.

Thesis Format

The TFM must be submitted as a PDF following the official guidelines available on the master’s website and emailed by the coordination team at the start of the course.

Evaluation

A rubric detailing the evaluation and grading criteria will be provided so you understand how your work will be assessed.

The final grade will be scored from 0 to 10. Due to the limited total number of places in the Master’s program, only one “Matrícula de Honor” (MH) can be awarded. If no MH are granted in the Ordinary evaluation period, it may be awarded during the Extraordinary evaluation period.

Final Submission

All signed documents must be delivered to the tribunal secretary before the presentation day, respecting the established deadlines.

This guide will help you comply with administrative and academic requirements to successfully complete your TFM. Remember, we are here to support you throughout the entire process.