4. Final theses (Master's theses)

What is required for registering a master's thesis?

The completed registration form, signed by both the candidate and the professor, can be found here: 
https://www.fin.ovgu.de/inf_media/Prüfungsdokumente/Formulare/Abschlussarbeiten/Anmeldeformular+für+die+Themenstellung+der+Masterarbeit.pdf

I'm missing one credit point (CP) for the required prerequisites (60 or 90 CP) for my Master's thesis. Is there a module that can provide one CP?

No, there is no 1-CP module. Another regular module must be taken, even if this causes the credit limit to be exceeded.

Can I register for my master's thesis before I have completed all the required ECTS credits (60/90)?

Generally, you can only register once you have completed all courses (60 or 90 ECTS credits). Early enrollment is possible by submitting an informal request to the examination board, for example, if you only need to complete one more course. There is no specific form for this request – a short letter as a signed PDF to the examination office is sufficient.

How much time can pass after reaching 60/90 ECTS credits before I register for my master's thesis?

There is no deadline between obtaining the required credit points and registering the master's thesis.

Can an external person become the first examiner?

The first examiner must be a professor from the Faculty of Computer Science. Qualified external individuals can serve as supervisors and second examiners.

Can an external person become a second examiner?

Yes, provided a reference outlining the applicant's educational background is submitted, allowing the examination board to assess the applicant's qualifications. Please send the reference by email to the examination office.

I need a second examiner for my thesis. Who can help?

The first examiner helps to find a second examiner.

How do I submit my thesis?

See “Submission of theses” at: https://www.fin.ovgu.de/pamt.html

How long is the processing time for a bachelor's thesis or a master's thesis?

Bachelor's thesis: 20 weeks. Master's thesis: 22 weeks.

Is there a set period between submitting the thesis and the defense date?

No, according to the examination regulations, no time period is specified.

I would like to conduct my defense online. Where do I register for this, and who decides?

Ask your examiner whether an online defense is possible.

What is the FIN's policy on the use of AI in the workplace? Is there a form to be used?

The forms website includes a "Declaration of Self-Employment" form, which contains a section on the use of AI. The use of AI must be identified and justified in this form. Forms: https://www.fin.ovgu.de/Studium/Während+des+Studiums/Prüfungsamt/Formulare.html

Faculty AI policy: https://www.fin.ovgu.de/Studium/Während+des+Studiums/Prüfungsamt/Prüfungsausschuss/Regelungen.html#gen_ki

Due to unforeseen circumstances, I will not be able to submit my thesis by the deadline. What can I do?

For verifiable reasons beyond the student's control, an application for extension can be submitted. This application is submitted informally via the primary supervisor.

Last Modification: 21.10.2026 -
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