General information
We also supervise theses that fit in with our research areas of agricultural and environmental sociology, environmental psychology, or climate and environmental economics. This page summarizes all the important information from our research group on topic selection, supervision, and the organization of Master’s theses.
Topic selection
Students are welcome to independently develop a topic for their thesis and discuss and further develop it with their supervisors in the research group. It is also possible to thematically link theses to ongoing research projects in the research group.
Possible topics for Master's theses include, for example:
Human behavior in the context of climate protection, biodiversity conservation, climate change adaptation; perceptions of (environmental) risks (e.g., microplastics, PFAS); strategies and policy instruments in the climate, agricultural, and environmental context; science communication; nature connectedness and human-nature relationships; social relationships between stakeholder groups
A particular thematic focus of the research group is sustainable agri-food systems.
The following methodological approaches are primarily used in our research group:
- Qualitative methods of empirical social research (e.g., interviews, focus groups, frame analysis, cognitive mapping)
- Quantitative methods of empirical social research (e.g., surveys, experiments, social network analysis)
- Transdisciplinary approaches (e.g., participatory scenario development)
- Interdisciplinary collaborations
The research group also has experience in integrative modeling as well as analyses using geographic information systems. Moreover, we are constantly expanding our range of methods.
Supervision
Supervision of theses is primarily aimed at students of Environmental Systems Science (USW), Sustainable Development and Global Studies. However, supervision of students from other fields of study is also possible if there is a thematic or methodological connection to the above-mentioned topics.
Please note that for some degree programs, a seminar accompanying the thesis is mandatory (e.g., Master's seminar). Information on this can be found in the respective curricula. In some cases, a signed supervision agreement must be submitted at the time of registration for the course or shortly after. Please note that supervision will only be confirmed after a non-binding initial meeting and upon presentation of a coherent draft concept for the Master's thesis.
Master's theses are generally supervised by Hermine Mitter. Co-supervision by Leonie Fian is possible. In special cases, our doctoral students may also participate in the supervision of theses.
Supervision of Bachelor's theses is also possible.
If you are interested, please contact us by email for a non-binding initial consultation.
Organisation
Students are responsible for organising the formalities (deadlines, requirements, forms, etc.) themselves. More detailed information on the specific requirements of the individual degree programs can be found in the respective curricula. The following compilation of helpful links will provide you further information on the subject of final theses:
General overview of the topic of theses on the URBI faculty website.
Workshops and support for final theses by the Writing Centre of the University of Graz.
Forms and instructions of the URBI faculty for final theses.
Materials and forms for USW and Global Studies Master.
Information on Bachelor's degrees, awards for outstanding Master's theses and responsibilities of the Dean's Offices for degrees.