Research Methods in MSc Theses: A Preliminary Analysis of 2024 IT Theses from a Finnish University

The crucial role of a master's thesis in information technology in the degree studies is to demonstrate the student's ability to apply theoretical knowledge to a practical or research-oriented problem. In our research, we performed an AI-assisted document analysis to 100 information technology master's theses written in a Finnish university in 2024. We analyzed the research method used, did the thesis include a design or implementation of some kind of artifact (constructive work), and how often the thesis was done for a company or other external sponsor. Based on the document analysis, we identified that 48% of the theses were done for a company, 35% were student's own topics, 16% were done for a research group, and one was done for an association. The theses were classified into seven categories based on their main research method: constructive, mathematical, case study, systematic review, comparative analysis, action research, and mixed methods. Of these, 52% were constructive works, involving the design or implementation of an artifact. Main methodologies in the constructive works included design science research and engineering design process. The results have practical impact in curriculum development and can support supervision work.