Non-completion in thesis required master's degree programs

Abstract

This study examined phenomena associated with non-completers enrolled in a
master's level graduate program with a thesis requirement at medium-sized mid-western
comprehensive university. Both program coordinators and program-identified noncompleters
were interviewed based on five research questions in order to discover themes
emerging from thesis non-completion. Ten themes emerged, including peer and
academic support, assistantship factors, influencing factors, choice, and perceived thesis
value. Although previous research of master's degree thesis non-completion is not
extensive, a review of literature is included. The researcher found that while there were
similarities in many themes among the program coordinators and students, areas in which
there was the strongest disconnect between the two were in the area of choice and
perceived thesis value. Students wanted to feel that they had choice in their thesis
process, especially in a thesis required program either through the selection of their topic
or the selection of their thesis chair. In perceived thesis value, it was concluded that
students need to see the same value of the thesis as the program requiring it, which
suggests that more education and discussion may be needed at the time that students are
applying for the programs and continue throughout the thesis process.

Date of Award	2012
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Richard Roberts (Supervisor)