1.1 – Aim of the Thesis projects

The thesis projects are a mandatory part of studies and usually conclude the study programme. By conducting a thesis, the students demonstrate their ability to carry out a structured, scientific piece of work under supervision (BSc students) or independently (MSc students). In general, it includes the study of existing literature, the specification of the research question, the choice of the methodological approach;, the collection, analysis and interpretation of data; and the reporting of the findings.

1.2 – Prerequisites

BSc thesis projects generally start during the 5th semester. It is not possible to start with the thesis project before the end of 4th semester.

Before starting the master thesis, the bachelor studies have to be completed, any requirements for being admitted to the master studies have to be fulfilled, and 30 CP of courses for the MSc degree have been completed. (Study Regulations Art 311)

1.3 – Supervision

The thesis is generally conducted within one of the Laboratories in the Institute of Food, Nutrition and Health (IFNH). The supervisor defines the topic together with the student and determines the deadlines for the thesis. The topic has to be clearly defined and should allow the student to contribute to the research question. For theses conducted outside D-HEST, the main examiner is responsible for ensuring an ETH quality standard regarding the project outline, ensuring appropriate supervision, and is accountable for the grading.

The outline and schedule of the master thesis has to be defined in writing and signed by the student and the supervisor.

The following details need to be approved by the D-HEST Department’s Conference:

• Topic of the thesis
• Examiner of the thesis, if not a Professor at D-HEST (or D-USYS Agr. Sci.)
• Co-examiner of the thesis

1.4 – Duration

The duration of a bachelor thesis is 450 hours, and of a master thesis 28 weeks (full time). Prolongations have to be approved by the Director of Studies following a well-justified written request by the student (e.g. if not performed full time). The starting date and expected submission date are defined in the Thesis Registration Form (BSc thesis registration, MSc thesis registration), which needs to be handed in to the Study Administration Office immediately after agreement is made with the main examiner. The attendance of 1-2 master courses during the master thesis should be permitted if possible.

1.5 – Mobility

The master or bachelor thesis can be performed abroad (student exchange), except for students who have master courses accredited from student exchange. Master theses performed in Switzerland with a close supervision by D-HEST professors and no involvement of the student exchange office do not count as mobility.