Grading of theses

At the Institute of Geotechnical Engineering, when evaluating student work, we consider both the formal and scientific quality of the thesis as well as the student’s independence and approach during the writing process. The following aspects are central to this evaluation:

1. Form

1.1 Language

We place great importance on clear, scientific, and technically appropriate language, as well as good readability and a high degree of accuracy.

1.2 Style

Figures and tables should be clearly laid out, formatting should be consistent and citations should be carefully and consistently applied. Layout guidelines must be followed.

2. Content

2.1 Structure and Organization

The thesis should be structured in a topic-specific, logical, and balanced manner and should reflect the assignment in a clear and coherent outline.

2.2 Introduction and Motivation

The objectives of the thesis should be clearly stated and the scientific and subject-specific rationale should be presented in a comprehensible manner.

2.3 Foundations and State of the Art

We expect a well-founded and as far as possible, comprehensive presentation of the relevant fundamentals, supported by appropriate, up-to-date and diverse scholarly literature.

2.4 Methods

The chosen methods should be appropriate for the subject matter and described in a complete, comprehensible and sufficiently detailed manner.

2.5 Results

We place particular emphasis on a transparent and coherent analysis, as well as the critical interpretation and contextualization of the results within the relevant literature. The results should be documented in a complete and transparent manner.

2.6 Conclusions and Outlook

The most important results and findings should be concisely summarized, clear conclusions should be drawn from them and a meaningful outlook should be provided.

3. Methodology

3.1 Commitment

We value an independent, structured and goal-oriented approach to work, as well as dedication and commitment throughout the project.

3.2 Originality

The assessment focuses on original ideas and intellectual contributions, independent conclusions, as well as the academic rigor and complexity of the task undertaken.