The thesis can be based on various research, planning, production and development tasks. Research and development tasks are premised on the needs of the industry or those of the university of the applied sciences. However, the thesis at the tertiary level (in higher education) must have a solid theoretical basis. The thesis can be either research or practice-based, and it must be conducted according to the plan that is predesigned, as well as approved of by the thesis supervisor. The thesis includes a report that is written using appropriate, academic style.
In a research-based thesis you conduct applied research that serves the needs of the industry and in which the author solves a specified problem or task in the field. The research-based thesis can also be so-called desk research, which focuses on a specific topic through the analysis of written sources. In this case, literature, such as research articles and dissertations are the data for qualitative content analysis.
A practice-based thesis is based on a concrete, existing task that requires a solution. The task is closely related to the specific field or industry. The outcome of the practice-based thesis can be a concrete product, manual, service package, field-specific plan, concept, model or simulation. The practice-based thesis is often an assignment commissioned by an external party. However, it can also be focused on the author’s own company or business idea. The thesis report contains a relevant (theoretical) frame of reference, a detailed description of the practical task and its evaluation in terms of the knowledge base. The production process should be reported in a logical order and presented from the same perspective as what is defined in advance.
An artistic thesis is a special kind of a practice-based thesis used in media studies at Karelia UAS. Authors contemplate a work of art or complete an assignment using artistic expression and techniques. The outcome of the artistic thesis is a product or work of art, but the thesis can also focus on analysing the artistic process. The work process is always reported in writing. In the report, the author analyses and reflects on the artistic work with the help of the knowledge base and the assignment that defines the perspective of the thesis.
A diary-based thesis (PONT in Finnish) is an option for those already working in the field of study. Self-initiative is important, but before starting the thesis, the option must first be negotiated with a representative of the degree programme. Note! The diary-based thesis must follow the specific instructions given below.