Course content

The bachelor essay (project) is a compulsory part of the bachelor’s in counselling and adult learning, and is completed in the last semester of the programme. The essay consists of a minor research project within a chosen topic in counselling and/or adult learning and is an introduction to conducting an independent scientific study, by utilizing relevant theory of science and research methods. This includes, among other, searching for and utilizing relevant theory and research literature as part of an active dialogue with the research field. Further, it includes critical assessment, and reflection, analysis, presentation and discussion of theory, and possible data collection, connected to relevant research questions within the field. The topic for the bachelor essay must be approved by the department. Supervision is provided. The bachelor essay should be about 15-20 pages long (A4, line spacing 1,5, Times New Roman 12 pt.)

Learning outcome

The student has general competency in utilising relevant academic and methodological knowledge in carrying out and presenting a project assignment. This leads to the student:

• being able to formulate a research question within the research fields counselling and/or adult learning,
• being able to plan and carry out a minor research process addressing the research question through relevant theory, research findings and/or their own empirical material
• having insight into how theory and research literature can be utilised with empirical materials and/or in an extensive discussion
• having basic competencies in leading an academic dialogue with a research field
• having basic competencies in making ethical judgements in one’s own research and/or doing critical assessments of research and literature
• mastering academic writing in accordance with present norms. This entails being able to argue for scientific positions, choices and priorities, as well as following standards for references, quotes and layout for reference lists

Learning methods and activities

Seminars and bachelor essay supervision. Take a look at Blackboard for detailed information about compulsory assignments.

The course will be taught for the last time in the fall semester of 2025. In the spring semester of 2026, the course will be taught with PED2900 - Bachelor Thesis in Education - if needed. Please contact the student advisor if you have any questions about this.

Compulsory assignments

• Participation on seminars.
• Project draft

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

VLR1006

Required previous knowledge

VLR1000, VLR1001, VLR1002, VLR1003, VLR1004, VLR1005, PED1005. The required prerequisite knowledge must be fulfilled in order to be admitted to the course.

Course materials

Will be announced at the start of the semester.