TGGS Regulation for Examination 2020 (Master)

It is deemed necessary to revise the regulation of the master degree education of The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering that announced on 27 September 2017 (B.E. 2560) in accordance with additional study plans to fulfil the industrial needs and with an announcement of the Ministry of Education entitled “Graduate Studies Program Standard Criteria 2015 (B.E. 2558)” along with the academic philosophy following the memorandum of understanding between King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok and RWTH Aachen University signed on 22 October 2004 (B.E. 2547) , 20 September 2011 (B.E. 2554) and 7 October 2015 (B.E. 2558).

By virtue of Articles 22(2) and (9) of the King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok Act 2007 (B.E. 2550) and the Academic Council’s resolution on its 6/2020 meeting on 16 July 2020, the University Council on its 7/2020 meeting on 19 August 2020 thus established this regulation.

Item 1 This regulation is hereby entitled “the Regulation of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok Concerning Master Degree Education (REM) of The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS) 2020″

Item 2 This regulation is applied to all new students enrolled in semester 1/2020 onwards.

Item 3 “The Regulation of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok Concerning Master Degree Education (REM) of The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS) 2017″ signed on 27 September 2017 is no longer valid.

All existing regulations and notices that are found inconsistent with the provisions of this regulation shall be annulled and henceforth will be replaced by this regulation.

Item 4 This regulation has been drafted in Thai and English versions. In case of any discrepancies in the interpretation, the version of the regulation in Thai language shall prevail.

Item 5 This regulation is overseen by the President of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok and the President has the authority to issue related regulations or announcements.

In case of any diagnostics or discrepancies in the interpretation, the President has the sole authority in the interpretation and the decision.

In case of any reasonable and expedient to request a formal waiver in complying with this regulation, The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS) has the authority to consider a waiver on a case-by-case basis, with the exception on the extension on the duration of study that must be complied with Article 9 Paragraph 2.

Any procedures related to master degree education, but remain unstated, must be proposed to the University’s Academic Council for further consideration and then the University Council for the final approval.

Item 6 In this regulation,

“University” means King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok.

“University Council” means the Council of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok.

“Academic Council” means the Academic Council of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok.

“President” means the President of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok.

“TGGS” means The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering.

“Dean” means the Dean of The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering.

“Curriculum” means all curricular graduate programs offered for the master degree curriculums at The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering, except the Joint Master Degree Program in Railway Vehicles and Infrastructure Engineering (International Program).

“Curriculum Chairman” means the head of responsible curriculum lecturers for the curriculum teaching and learning at The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering appointed by Dean with the approval from TGGS Committee of The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering.

“Program Coordinator” means the head of field of study in The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering appointed by Dean with the approval from Administrative Committee of The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering.

“Permanent Lecturer” means a permanent and full-time lecturer at The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering.

“Program Lecturer” means a permanent and full-time lecturer with the qualifications according or related to the field of study offered in the program at The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering.  The program lecturer is responsible for teaching and researching in the aforementioned disciplines and able to serve as program lecturers for several curriculums at the same time but must be a curriculum in which that program lecturer has direct qualifications or related to the field of study of that curriculum.

“Responsible Curriculum Lecturer” means a program lecturer with the obligation of curriculum management and development and teaching from planning, quality control, monitoring and evaluating the results, and curriculum development. Responsible curriculum lecturer must remain at the program during the duration of the study and is not permitted to be a responsible curriculum lecturer for more than one curriculum at the same, except it is the multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary curriculum that he/she can be a responsible curriculum lecturer for one more curriculum. Responsible curriculum lecturers for one curriculum can be the same at most two responsible curriculum lecturers.

“TGGS Committee” means a committee appointed to manage The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering.

“Expert” means an individual outside The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering, but still in the university as Internal Expert or outside the university as External Expert, who has a high professional standing and has been approved as qualified to give a lecture or be an examiner according to The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering’s rules/regulations.

“Curriculum Management Committee” means a committee consists of curriculum chairman, responsible curriculum lecturers and program coordinator who are responsible for the management and development of curriculum in the graduate levels at The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering.

“Examination Committee” means a committee appointed by Dean with the approval from TGGS Committee of The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering to administer the examination and other duties related to the examination as specified in this regulation.

“Student” means a student in the master degree program at The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering.

“Master thesis” means a written document reporting on a research project aiming to develop and construct the body of knowledge in a field of study, which is supervised by the thesis advisor. The student will use several methods for managing and solving engineering and scientific problems including techniques in that field of study. The student will submit the thesis to summarize the thesis work content, deliverables and confirmed outcomes as a part of the degree requirements.

“Master project” means a written document reporting on an independent study which is supervised by the thesis advisor and is a part of the degree requirements for the study plan B. This study plan is focused on the coursework without the master thesis, however, the study must complete the master project.

“Audited course” means a course that specified in the curriculum for further study. The student must study and pass the course with a grade of S, however, the grade is not counted for the graduation.

Item 7 Educational system

The educational system of the master degree program of the TGGS is an international program using English language as a medium of instruction.

Item 8 Educational management

The program is a two-semester system. The academic calendar consists of two regular semesters. Each regular semester is not less than 16 weeks, but not more than 18 weeks.

Item 9 Duration of Study

(1) The duration of study has a maximum of 10 semesters.

(2) The duration of study is counted from the semester in which a student once registers in the program.

In the case that the student cannot complete their studies within the period specified in Paragraph 1 due to the master thesis/the master project awaiting publication or waiting for an acceptance letter for publication,  the health problems or with an impossible event such as flooding in the disaster areas or other causes which are not the student’s fault. The student must submit a request for an extension of study time along with the proof of evidence such as proof of submission for publication, medical certificate or written summary report of the flood or disasters, etc. in advance prior the end of study period to TGGS. The request will be considered by TGGS Committee and forward to Commission of Higher Education for the final approval and reported to University Council.

Item 10 Program Structure

The program structure shall be a total number of credits throughout the curriculum of not less than 46 credits which is classified into 2 Study Plans as follows:

(1) Study Plan A focuses on research with master thesis.

a. Type A1 consists of master thesis with a minimum of 46 credits. Additional courses or academic activities may be scheduled without credits; however, they must have the achievements as specified in the course.

b. Type A2 consists of master thesis with a minimum of 12 credits, industrial internship of 4 credits and the coursework for additional 30 credits.

(2) Study Plan B focuses on coursework without master thesis. This study plan has a minimum of 6 credits for master project, industrial internship of 4 credits and the coursework for additional 36 credits.

Item 11 Qualification of an applicant

(1) Curriculum with Study Plan A Type A1

a. An applicant must hold a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification by which the educational background in the field of the Master course is proven.

In the case that the field of study graduated is not according to the program, it must be approved by the Curriculum Management Committee on a case by case basis.

a. The degree must be awarded with a minimum GPA of 3.00 from 4.00 scale or an equivalent GPA.

An individual lacking a minimum GPA of 3.00 but more than 2.50 must have the industrial internship, the work experience or the research in related field and may apply under the consent of the Curriculum Management Committee.

b. An applicant must have English language proficiency according to the rules of the TGGS.

c. An applicant must have other qualifications as stated in the curriculum or announced by the TGGS.

(2) Curriculum with Study Plan A Type A2

a. An applicant must hold a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification by which the educational background in the field of the Master course is proven.

In the case that the field of study graduated is not according to the program, it must be approved by the Curriculum Management Committee on a case by case basis.

b. The degree must be awarded with a minimum GPA of 2.75 from 4.00 scale or an equivalent GPA.

An individual lacking a minimum GPA of 2.75 but more than 2.50 must have the work experience in related field and may apply under the consent of the Curriculum Management Committee.

c. An applicant must have English language proficiency according to the rules of the TGGS.

d. An applicant must have other qualifications as stated in the curriculum or announced by the TGGS.

(3) Curriculum with Study Plan B

a. An applicant must hold a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification by which the educational background in the field of the Master course is proven.

In the case that the field of study graduated is not according to the program, it must be approved by the Curriculum Management Committee on a case by case basis.

b. The degree must be awarded with a minimum GPA of 2.50 from 4.00 scale or an equivalent GPA and must have the work experience or is working on the job that can increase the competence by integrating the education into the curriculum. An individual may apply under the consent of the Curriculum Management Committee.

c. An applicant must have English language proficiency according to the rules of the TGGS.

d. An applicant must have other qualifications as stated in the curriculum or announced by the TGGS.

Item 12 Criteria for admission

(1) An applicant must pass entrance examinations as announced by the TGGS, or

(2) In exceptional circumstances, an applicant is selected with the consent of the Curriculum Management Committee and the TGGS Committee.

Item 13 Enrollment

(1) An applicant who accepted to study must enroll for credits in order to hold a student status.

(2) An applicant who accepted to study must enroll according the procedure announced by the TGGS.

(3) An applicant who accepted to study is not permitted to enroll in more than one program at the same time.

Item 14 Study plan

Study plan means the coursework, the industrial internship and the master thesis or the master project that a student must study or complete in each semester as assigned by the program.

Item 15 Registration

(1) Registration must follow the university academic calendar. A student who has not completed the registration process within 15 days after the beginning of the semester will no longer be considered as a student.

(2) A student is allowed to register for a minimum of 3 credits and a maximum of 15 credits in each regular semester, except a student has less than 3 credits to complete the study program or only has the thesis work to be completed.

Any registration with less than the allowed minimum credits or the allowed maximum credits as stated in (2) must receive the consent from the Curriculum Chairman and approval from the Dean.

(3) A student can register to maintain the student status in the summer semester if only has the thesis work to be completed for the last semester in order to fulfill the graduation requirement.

(4) Registration for Audit Course

a. Registration for Audit Course means that the audit course is a special and/or additional course which will not be counted toward the graduation requirement for the study program.

b. The course evaluation results will be recorded as “AUD” on the transcript if the student’s attendance is more than 80% of the entire lecture time.

(5) Maintaining student status

a. A student who has completed his/her course requirements and is working on other degree requirements that do not require enrollment in courses must nevertheless maintain his/her active student status for continued advising services until graduation, or terminated from their academic program.

b. To retain a student status, a student must complete the registration process and pay the maintain student status fee and other fees within 15 days after the semester begins. Failure to comply with this regulation will result in termination of student status.

Item 16 Add or Withdraw Courses

(1) Add courses can be accomplished within 3 weeks after the semester begins or within the first week of the summer semester.

(2) Withdraw courses can be accomplished within 12 weeks after the semester begins or within the first two weeks of the summer semester.

(3) Add and withdraw courses stated in (1) and (2) must not violate the registration regulations and procedures stated in Item 15 (2) and (3).

(4) Any add and withdraw courses not according to (1), (2) and (3) must receive the consent from the Curriculum Chairman and approval from the Dean.

Item 17 Leave of absence

A leave of absence is a temporary interruption of one’s studies for a period of one or more semesters. A student wishing to make a leave of absence needs to maintain the student status and must be qualified according to the following criteria:

(1) A student may personally request for absence from the advisor and the Curriculum Chairman and receive the approval from the Dean within the period specified in the university announcement. It can be requested under the following conditions:

a. A leave of absence for military service for the duration of military service obligation.

b. A leave of absence due to study or conduct the research abroad with exchange scholarship or other scholarship which can be beneficial to the program and with the support from the university.

c. Illness with absence for more than 20 percent of class attendance; a medical certificate is required.

d. Other personal reasons can be considered if a student has studied for at least one semester and have a minimum GPA of 2.75.

(2) Leave in item (1)a. is granted according to the conditions and the requirements of the military. Leave in item (1)b. is granted according to the conditions and the requirements of the scholarship funding agencies. Leaves in items (1)c. and (1)d. are granted for no longer than two consecutive semesters. If necessary, only one more semester of leave is granted.

(3) When the leave of absence is granted, the duration of absence is counted as part of the study duration except absence in item (1)a.

(4) During the period of approved leave of absence, a student must retain student status by paying the fees according to the university’s regulations within 15 days after the semester begins. The student must retain status when the leave is granted. Failure to comply with this regulation will result in termination of student status, except the absence in Item (1)a.

(5) A student who received the approved leave of absence can resume studies by submitting the request to the Curriculum Chairman and with approval by the Dean at least one week prior the registration period begins.

(6) Special circumstances other than (1)-(5) shall be subjected to the consideration of the President.

Item 18 Termination of student status

A student status is terminated according to the following reasons:

(1) Death

(2) Approved resignation from the program

(3) Disqualifications for admission mentioned in Item 11

(4) As approved by the Dean, a student status can be terminated under any of the following reasons:

a. A student does not complete the program within the maximum period mentioned in Item 9.

b. A student does not register or does not pay the tuition fees within the deadlines.

c. A student does not follow the conditions specified for leave of absence.

d. A student does not follow the rules and guidelines mentioned in Section 8 Measurement and Evaluation, Section 9 Measurement and Evaluation of Master Thesis and Section 10 Measurement and Evaluation of Master Project.

(5) Breach of discipline mentioned in Item 47.

Item 19 Reinstatement of student status

(1) A student who is terminated from reasons stated in Item 18(4)b can resume a student status within 15 days after being terminated.

(2) Reinstatement of student status must be approved by the Dean with the consent of the Curriculum Chairman.

(3) A student must pay the resumption fee, the maintenance fee and the tuition fees in order to resume studies.

(4) Once reinstatement of student status is approved, a student officially regains status and resumes studies. However, the duration of study must be according to Item 9.

Item 20 Resignation

A student requesting a resignation from the program must submit the request to the Dean through the Program Coordinator or the main advisor and the Curriculum Chairman. The resignation becomes effective with the Dean’s approval.

The resignation became effective with the Dean’s approval.

Item 21 Change of study plan, study program or minor

(1) A student may request to change the study plan, the study program or the minor within the period for add, change section and withdraw of course stated in the university academic calendar with the consent of Curriculum Chairman and the approval from the Dean.

(2) A student must pay the fee to change the study plan, the study program or the minor.

Item 22 Faculty members in the master degree program

(1) A program lecturer must hold a minimum of doctoral degree or equivalent and must have papers (publications) that are not part of the education to earn a degree. The papers must be published in the recognized database announced by the Commission of Higher Education for Appointment of Academic Title. The program lecturer must have at least 3 papers in the past 5 years and with that at least one research paper.

(2) At least 3 program lecturers appointed to be responsible curriculum lecturers and they must hold a minimum of doctoral degree or equivalent and must have papers (publications) that are not part of the education to earn a degree. The papers must be published in the recognized database announced by the Commission of Higher Education for Appointment of Academic Title. The responsible curriculum lecturer must have at least 3 papers in the past 5 years and with that at least one research paper.

In the case that the program does not have at least 3 responsible curriculum lecturers or the program has less than 10 students, the program can request for a special consideration and approval for the current number of responsible curriculum lecturers and their the qualifications to the university council and the Commission of Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation.

(3) Master thesis and master project advisors are classified into 2 categories as follows:

a. A master thesis main advisor and a master project main advisor must be a program lecturer who holds a doctoral degree or equivalent and must have papers (publications) that are not part of the education to earn a degree. The papers must be published in the recognized database announced by the Commission of Higher Education for Appointment of Academic Title. The thesis main advisor must have at least 3 papers in the past 5 years and with that at least one research paper.

b. A master thesis co-advisor (if any) and a master project co-advisor (if any) must have the qualifications as follows:

A master thesis co-advisor or a master project co-advisor must be a permanent lecturer with the same qualifications as the master thesis main advisor or the master project main advisor.

For an external expert as the master thesis co-advisor or the master project co-advisor, he/she must hold a doctoral degree or equivalent and must have papers (publications) published in journals which are in the nationally or internationally recognized database. The external expert must have at least 10 papers related to the master thesis/the master project topic.

In the case that an external expert does not have number of papers according to the requirement, he/she must specialize in the field of research and have experience in conducting research with recognition. The program can request for a special consideration and approval to the university council and then inform the Commission of Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation.

(4) A master thesis examination committee and a master project examination committee

a. A master thesis examination committee consists of a program lecturer, an external expert, and a master thesis advisor for at least 3 members. However, the chairman cannot be a master thesis advisor or co-advisor.

b. A master project examination committee consists of a program lecturer or an external expert and a master project advisor for at least 3 members. However, the chairman cannot be a master project advisor or co-advisor.

The master thesis examination committee member and the master project examination committee member must have the following qualifications:

a. A program lecturer as the examination committee member must hold a doctoral degree or equivalent and must have papers (publications) that are not part of the education to earn a degree. The papers must be published in the recognized database announced by the Commission of Higher Education for Appointment of Academic Title. The program lecturer must have at least 3 papers in the past 5 years and with that at least one research paper.

b. For an external expert as the examination committee member, he/she must hold a doctoral degree or equivalent and must have papers (publications) published in journals which are in the nationally or internationally recognized database. An external expert must have at least 10 papers related to the master thesis/master project topic.

In the case that an external expert does not have number of papers according to the requirement, he/she must specialize in the field of research and have experience in conducting research with recognition. The program can request for a special consideration and approval to the university council and then inform the Commission of Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation.

c. In the case that an internal expert must be a permanent lecturer in the university, but not the program lecturer of TGGS, and must have qualifications stated in Item 22.

(5) A course instructor must be a permanent lecturer or external lecturer who holds a doctoral degree or equivalent in the study program or related study program or in the study program which the course being taught. The course instructor must have experience in teaching and papers (publications) that are not part of the education to earn a degree. The papers must be published in the recognized database announced by the Commission of Higher Education for Appointment of Academic Title. The course instructor must have at least 1 paper in the past 5 years.

However, the external lecturer can give the lecture no more than 50% of the course content together with the permanent program lecturer responsible for that course.

Item 23 Workload of Master Thesis Advisor and Master Project Advisor

(1) One program lecturer can advise and supervise the thesis of master and doctoral students according to the following regulations:

A program lecturer with a doctoral degree or equivalent and have publications according to the regulation allows to be a thesis advisor up to 5 master and doctoral students each semester.

A program lecturer with a doctoral degree or equivalent and the academic title of assistant professor or higher and have publications according to the regulation allows to be a thesis advisor up to 10 master and doctoral students each semester.

In the case that a program lecturer with a doctoral degree or equivalent and the academic title of professor is needed to supervise more than 10 master and doctoral students, the program lecturer can request for a special consideration and approval to the university council to be a thesis advisor up to 15 master and doctoral students each semester. For more than 15 master and doctoral students each semester, the program lecturer must request for a special consideration and approval to the university council and the consent from the Commission of Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation.

(2) One program lecturer can advise the master projects up to 15 master students.

In the case that the program lecturer is also advised both master thesis and master project, one of master thesis is equivalent to 3 master projects, however, no more than 15 master students each semester.

One permanent program lecturer can advise and supervise the thesis of master and doctoral students according to the following regulations:

A permanent program lecturer with a doctoral degree or equivalent and have publications according to the regulation allows to be a thesis advisor up to 5 master and doctoral students each semester.

(3) A responsible curriculum lecturer must be a master thesis/project advisor and/or a master thesis/project examination committee member and/or a course instructor in the study program as well.

Item 24 Appointment of a master thesis/project advisor and a master thesis/project examination committee member will be appointed by the Dean with the consent of the TGGS committee.

Item 25 Scope and Format of Examination for the Master Degree

(1) Examination process includes the followings:

a. Study Plan A Type A1

1. Master Thesis as stated in Section 6

b. Study Plan A Type A2

1. Examination by course subjects

2. Industrial internship for 18 weeks or more

3. Master Thesis as stated in Section 6

c. Study Plan B

1. Examination in the course subjects

2. Industrial internship for 18 weeks or more

3. Comprehensive examination

4. Master Project as stated in Section 7

The examination must be taken on the examination date specified in the respective semester according to the university academic calendar.

(2) The examinations in program specific subjects consist of either a written test or an oral examination in the subjects or courses indicated in each specific master program (curriculum).

(3) The topics of the examinations are determined by the contents of the courses assigned to the subjects.

(4) Two formats of the examination are a written examination as stated in Item 28 and an oral examination as stated in Item 29 which informed in each subject at the beginning of the registration period (Item 15) and announced during the lectures by the course instructor.

Item 26 Admission to the examination process for the Master Degree

Only persons can be admitted to master examinations who are enrolled in the respective TGGS Master Program.

Item 27 Admission to the examination procedure for the Master Degree

(1) Chairman of examination committee can approve the admission to the Master examinations.

(2) Admission will be refused if:

a. the qualifications listed in Item 26 are not fulfilled, or

b. the required documents are not completed, or

Item 28 Written Examinations

(1) In the test papers, the examinee has to prove that he/she is able to understand a problem posed and find a way to solve it, using the common methods of the subject, within a time limit and with limited auxiliary material.

(2) The examinee must be given the opportunity to inspect the marked test paper within, at the most, four weeks after the test results are published.

(3) The time limit for completing written test papers according to the nature of that course either the lecture or laboratory.

Item 29 Oral Examinations

(1) In the oral examinations, the examinee has to prove that he/she sees the larger context of the tested subject and that he/she is able to deal with specific problems within this larger technical context. Additionally, the oral examinations are intended to find out whether the examinee has a broad basic knowledge.

(2) Oral examinations are held in the presence of at least one examiner and one competent assistant in the form of an examination of a group or an individual.

a. In group examinations, a maximum of four examinees can be questioned at the same time.

b. In an individual examination, an examinee is questioned by the examiner with one question at the time.

(3) Prior approving the exam results, the examiner must consider the evaluation from other examiners or the assistant.

(4) The essential topics, questions, and results of the examination in the individual subjects must be written down/recorded in examination notes.

(5) The examination notes consist of questions, answers, and other essential topics during the examination.

(6) The duration of an oral examination is generally 20-30 minutes per examinee.

Item 30 Comprehensive Examination

The comprehensive examination is the exam to measure the ability and potential of examinee in applying the principles and knowledge learned in courses. This examination is only for students in the Master’s Degree Program Study Plan B.

(1) Appointment of Comprehensive Examination Committee

Curriculum Management Committee will appoint a comprehensive examination committee with at least of 3 program lectures with the nomination by the curriculum chairman and one program lecturer is acted as the chairman.

The comprehensive examination committee is responsible in organizing the examination and report the result to the Curriculum Management Committee via the curriculum chairman within two weeks after the examination date.

(2) Comprehensive Examination Procedure

a. Comprehensive examination includes a written examination and/or an oral examination and is organized for all categories of courses at one time.

b. After the student submits the application of comprehensive examination, the program is responsible to organize the comprehensive examination prior the defense of master project with the discretion of the Curriculum Chairman.

The student must submit the application through the master project advisor and the curriculum chairman to the Curriculum Management Committee.

a. The student is eligible to take the comprehensive examination once completed at least 27 credits in the following categories of courses: the core course, the specific core course, and the specific elective course at the beginning of registered semester.

Item 31 The process of master thesis preparation and examination are as follows:

(1) Appointment of Master Thesis Advisory Committee

(2) Master Thesis Evaluation in Study Plan A Type A1

a. Master Thesis Proposal Examination

b. Master Thesis Progress Examination

c. Appointment of Master Thesis Defense Examination Committee

d. Master Thesis Defense Examination

(3) Master Thesis Evaluation in Study Plan A Type A2

a. Master Thesis Proposal Examination

b. Appointment of Master Thesis Defense Examination Committee

c. Master Thesis Defense Examination

Item 32 Appointment and Change of Master Thesis Main Advisor

A student must have at least one main advisor at the beginning of enrollment. The co-advisor is optional.

The student can submit a request form to change a master thesis main advisor with the consent of both the current and proposed advisor. The student has to ensure that the new advisor will undertake their work before getting approval. The student requesting the change of a master thesis main advisor must submit the request to the Dean through the Curriculum Chairman and must be approved by the TGGS committee.

Item 33 Master Thesis Examination

(1) Master Thesis Proposal Examination:

a. A student could submit the request form for the Master Thesis Proposal Examination to the TGGS through the main advisor and the Curriculum Chairman. The submission process conforms to the announcement of TGGS.

In the case of students in Study Plan A Type A1 can take the thesis proposal examination in the first semester and must successfully register for the thesis in that semester.

b. A student who wishes to change the topic after the initial one has been approved must submit a request for Thesis Proposal Examination and the thesis starting time would be counted from the new date of approval for the thesis title as well as the time to submit the request form for the Master Thesis Progress Examination for the student in Study Plan A Type A 1 or the Mater Thesis Defense Examination for the student in Study Plan A Type A2.

In case of a student in Study Plan A Type A1, the thesis title must be approved within 2 semesters starting from the first semester of study. Failure to comply with this regulation will result in termination of student status. Exception with proper cause can be considered for extension of one more semester by TGGS Committee.

c. Appointment of Master Thesis Proposal Examination Committee

The main thesis advisor will nominate the committee members to the Dean for further official appointment. The Master Thesis Proposal Examination Committee comprises of a main advisor who has the qualification as stated in Item 22 (3) a. Up to 2 names with the qualification as stated in Item 22 may be nominated as committee member(s).

d. Master Thesis Proposal Examination Procedure

1. A student must submit the request form for Master Thesis Proposal Examination to TGGS through the main advisor and Curriculum Chairman.

2. After the examination, the advisor will report the result to the TGGS through the Curriculum Chairman and announce the result within one week from the examination date.

The student who fails the first proposal examination must submit a request form for retaking of the Master Thesis Proposal Examination within the duration specified by the Master Thesis Proposal Examination Committee.

The process and procedure of the Master Thesis Proposal Examination will comply with TGGS rules and announcements.

(2) Master Thesis Progress Examination

The purpose of this examination is to evaluate students’ thesis progress including their understanding of the content for students in both Study Plan A Type A1 and A2. It assesses the organizational and conceptual skills of the students necessary for their defense.

A student could submit a request for the Master Thesis Progress Examination after the approval date of the thesis title (Master Thesis Proposal Examination) at least 1 time per semester, except for the semester with Master Thesis Proposal Examination.

a. Submission of Request Form for Master Thesis Progress Examination.

Prior to the progress examination, a student must submit the request form for Master Thesis Progress Examination to the TGGS through the main advisor

b. Appointment of Master Thesis Progress Examination Committee

The main thesis advisor will nominate the committee members to the Dean for further official appointment. The Master Thesis Progress Examination Committee comprises of the following members:

1. Chairman who has the qualification as stated in Item 22 (4), who should not be the main advisor or a co-advisor.

2. Main advisor as a member

One more name with the qualification as stated in Item 22, who should not be the co-advisor, may be nominated as a committee member.

Master Thesis Progress Examination Procedure

1. A student must submit the request form for the Master Thesis Progress Examination to TGGS through the main advisor.

2. After the examination, the advisor will report the result to the TGGS through the Curriculum Chairman and announce the result within one week from the examination date.

The student who fails the first progress examination must submit a request form for retaking of the Master Thesis Progress Examination within the duration specified by the Master Thesis Progress Examination Committee.

A student who fails the second progress examination will receive the grade “U” as the evaluation result for all registered credits of master thesis. The student must register the master thesis with a new topic and start the entire master thesis process. The duration of the study must be in accordance with the student’s status conditions.

The process and procedure of the Master Thesis Progress Examination will comply with TGGS rules and announcements.

(3) Master Thesis Defense Examination:

The thesis defense examination is an opportunity for students to demonstrate the knowledge of their research area and overall process undertaken. The committee will evaluate the student’s performance and overall understanding of their academic knowledge to graduate.

a. Submission of Request Form for Master Thesis Defense Examination

Prior to the defense examination, a student must submit the request form for Master Thesis Defense Examination to the TGGS through the main advisor and the Curriculum Chairman with the following conditions:

1. Study Plan A Type A1

A student must receive the result and pass the latest Master Thesis Progress Examination.

2. Study Plan A Type A2

2.1 The master thesis title must be approved. In the case of taking the Master Thesis Progress Examinations, a student must receive the result and pass the latest Master Thesis Progress Examination.

2.2 A student must complete all courses as specified in the program, except the industrial internship.

2.3 Pass on other qualifications as specified by TGGS Committee.

b. Appointment of Master Thesis Defense Examination Committee

The main thesis advisor will nominate the committee members to the Dean for further official appointment. The Master Thesis Defense Examination Committee comprises of at least 3 members but no more than 5 members as follows:

1. Chairman who should not be the main advisor or a co-advisor.

2. Expert(s) as member(s) with a maximum of two members who has the qualification as stated in the item 22 (4). At least one member is the external expert.

3. Main advisor and co-advisor (if any) as a member.

Additional names with the qualification as stated in Item 22 may be nominated as committee member(s). However, the committee shall not be more than 5 members.

c. Master Thesis Defense Examination Procedure

1. A student must submit the request form for the Master Thesis Defense Examination to TGGS through the main advisor and the curriculum chairman.

2. After the examination, the advisor will report the result to the TGGS through the Curriculum Chairman and announce the result within one week from the examination date.

The student who fails the first defense examination must submit a request form for retaking of the Master Thesis Defense Examination within the duration specified by the Master Thesis Defense Examination Committee. Failure to submit within the specified time, the student will receive the grade “U” as the evaluation result. The student must register the master thesis with a new topic and start the entire master thesis process. This is considered as the second time and the duration of the study must be in accordance with the student’s status conditions.

The process and procedure of the Master Thesis Defense Examination will comply with TGGS rules and announcements.

Item 34 Master Thesis Format

1. The master thesis must be written in English.

2. The manuscript format will be according to the TGGS Announcement.

Item 35 The process of master project preparation and examination are as follows:

(1) Appointment of Master Project Advisory Committee.

(2) Master Project Evaluation in Study Plan B

a. Master Project Proposal Examination

b. Appointment of Master Project Defense Examination Committee

c. Master Project Defense Examination

Item 36 TGGS will appoint one master project advisor with the qualification as stated in Item 22 (3) to provide the guidance and monitor the master project.

Item 37 The main thesis advisor will nominate the committee members to the Dean for further official appointment. The Master Project Defense Examination Committee comprises of the program lecturer, the expert, and the master project main advisor with at least 3 members in total and the committee members must have the qualification as stated in Item 22 (4). However, the chairman should not be the main advisor or a co-advisor.

Item 38 Master Project Proposal Examination Procedure

A student who is eligible to take the Master Project Proposal Examination must register for the master project in that semester and comply with the followings:

(1) Complete at least 18 credits of coursework

(2) The Master Project Proposal Examination must be completed within 30 days after the master project title is approved and the advisor is appointed. Failure to comply within the specified time, the student must propose a new topic and a new advisor.

(3) The advisor will report the progress of master project to the Curriculum Chairman every semester until the student has completed the master project.

Item 39 Master Project Format

1. The master project manuscript must be written in English.

2. The manuscript format will be according to the TGGS Announcement.

Item 40 Master Project Defense Examination Procedure

(1) A student is eligible to take the Master Project Defense Examination after the title has been approved at least 30 days.

(2) A student must submit the request form for the Master Project Defense Examination and one copy of abstract according to the TGGS announcement with the consent of the main advisor and the curriculum chairman.

(3) The Master Project Defense Examination is in a form of an oral examination in public and allow students and people who are interested to attend on the scheduled date, time and venue as announced by TGGS. Attendees cannot question the examinee except with the permission from the Master Project Defense Examination Committee.

(4) All Master Project Defense Examination Committee members must presence during the examination.

Item 41 A student must submit a copy of the master project manuscript to the agency that has an obligation.

Item 42 After the examination, the program will report the result to the TGGS within one week from the master project submission date. The manuscript of master project will be approved and fulfil the graduation requirement.

Item 43 Grading system used for educational evaluation based on defined accomplishment at the end of each semester is presented as follows

Item 44

Cumulative Credits and Grade Point Average (GPA) Calculations

(1) Cumulative credits and GPA must be calculated at the end of each semester.

(2) Cumulative credits are registered coursework credits which earns the score according to Item 43.

(3) Two categories of GPA: Semester GPA and Cumulative GPA in which can be calculated as follows:

a. Semester GPA is calculated from the academic performance of the student in the respective semester by summing the product of credits and grade score for each course, then dividing by total of credits in the respective semester.

b. Cumulative GPA is calculated from the academic performance of the student in the first semester to the latest one by summing the product of credits and grade score for each course, then dividing by total of credits.

Item 45Transfer of Credits

(1) Credits of the graduate course can be transferred with the consent of the Curriculum Management Committee and the Dean only for the course with the grade of at least 3.0. The eligible course to be transferred must be taken when he/she was the student at the university or another university.

(2) The eligible course to be transferred(1) must be no more than 5 academic years from the year that the course registered.

(3) Total of credits to be transferred cannot exceed 40% of the study program that the student enrolled at TGGS. And in the event that the number of credits is divided into no match, round off the decimal point unless in any of the following cases, the following shall be done without an unlimited number of credits.

(4) The transferred course and its credits will be recorded with the course name, number of credits and the grade on the transcript without calculating toward the GPA. The name of university, besides KMUTNB, will be recorded on the transcript as well.

Item 46Student Status and Repetition

(1) A student who has the Cumulative GPA less than 2.50 will be automatically retired from the study program.

(2) A student who has the Cumulative GPA of at least 2.50 but still lower than 3.00 will be on the “probation” status.

(3) A student who has completed the coursework according to the study program and received the Cumulative GPA of at least 2.90 but still lower than 3.00 can register for additional course(s) that have not been previously taken with the consent of an advisor and the Curriculum Chairman to achieve the Cumulative GPA of at least 3.00 within the next semester. Otherwise, the student will be automatically retired from the study program.

(4) A student is not allowed to register for the course(s) that have been previously taken, except for the repetition according to Item 46(3).

(5) A student who fails the Master Thesis Defense Examination twice will be automatically retired from the study program.

(6) A student who fails to take the Master Thesis Proposal Examination or Master Project Proposal Examination within the specified time will be automatically retired from the study program.

(7) A student in Study Plan B who fails to take the comprehensive examination within the specified time will be automatically retired from the study program.

Item 47Penalty for academic dishonesty (cheating) on course examinations and plagiarism on other theses or publications, or have someone write the master thesis/master project or publication.

(1) In the case that the incidents have been found or have reasonable doubts to believe that the student has been cheating on the course examination, the dean will form the investigation committee and the outcomes of this investigation will be report to TGGS Committee for consideration. If the student is found guilty, the student will get one of following penalties:

a. Fail that examination that the student has cheated.

b. Fail that course that the student has cheated and the student will be ordered to take a leave of absence in the next regular semester for at least one semester.

c. Fail that course that the student has cheated including not to consider all courses in that respective semester and the student will be ordered to take the leave of absence in the next regular semester for at least one semester.

d. Terminate the student status

(2) In the case that the incidents have been found or have reasonable doubts to believe that the student has been plagiarized on other thesis or publications or have someone write the master thesis/master project or publication, the dean will form the investigation committee and the outcomes of this investigation will be report to TGGS committee for consideration. If the student is found guilty, the TGGS Committee will proceed the followings:

a. If the student is not completed with the study, the committee will consider not to approve or to withdraw the master thesis/master project and the student will get one of following penalties:

1. The student will be ordered to take a leave of absence for a maximum of one academic year.

2. The student status will be terminated.

b. If the degree is already granted, the committee will report to the university council for degree revocation.

Item 48 Master Thesis Submission

A student is required to submit one copy of the manuscript with signatures of all committee members including the manuscript and abstract in an electronic version to the TGGS within the period specified by the KMUTNB Academic Calendar for the Dean approval.

Failure to comply as stated in Paragraph 1, the student will not be able to graduate. The student must register in order to maintain his/her student status until submit the manuscript, or until his/her student status is terminated.

Item 49 Measurement of Master thesis is considered from progress and success of research work assign in each semester together with outcomes of the progress and defense examinations.

Item 50 Grading system used for educational evaluation based on defined accomplishment is presented as follows:

Item 51 Evaluation of Master Thesis Progress Examination

(1) “Pass” refers that the student has outstanding knowledge to conduct the research in their academic area together with the ability to analyze and apply their knowledge in a wider context. The student is allowed to continue the thesis work and the student is expected to answer questions in the manner indicates his/her comprehensive knowledge in the field of research.

(2) “Fail” refers that the student does not have sufficient knowledge and competence in research work. His/her abilities do not meet minimum requirements. Therefore, the student is not allowed to submit a request for the examinations. It means that the student does not have sufficient understanding of the research he/she has studied so the student has to prepare more to retake the exam and make an effective presentation.

Item 52 TEvaluation of Master Thesis Defense Examination

(1) “Pass” refers that the student presents the thesis work and answers questions in the manner indicates his/her comprehensive knowledge in the field of research with satisfactory without any amendments or essential content.

A student is required to submit one copy of the manuscript with signatures of all committee members immediately but no more than 30 days after the examination date.

(2) “Pass with revision” refers that the student presents the thesis work and answers questions in the manner indicates his/her comprehensive knowledge in the field of research with satisfactory. The examination committee requests the student to include amendments or essential content and/or rewrite the manuscript according to the committee’s comments and suggestions as stated in the evaluation form.

A student is required to revise according to the committee’s comments and suggestions and submit one copy of the manuscript with signatures of all committee members immediately but no more than 60 days after the examination date.

(3) “Fail” refers that the student cannot present the thesis work and answer questions because he/she does not have sufficient knowledge and competence in research work.

A student who fails the first defense examination must submit a request form for retaking of the defense examination within the duration specified by the examination committee. Failure to comply within the specified time, the student will receive the grade “U” as the evaluation result for all registered credits of master thesis. The student must register the master thesis with a new topic and start the entire master thesis process. The duration of the study must be in accordance with the student’s status conditions.

Item 53 The result of defense examination will be recorded on the student’s transcript when he/she graduates with the assessment of the letter grade (A to F) according to Item 43.

Item 54 The master thesis approved by the Dean is considered to be official and complete master thesis.

Item 55 A student is required to submit the master project manuscript with complete content and format as specified by TGGS and with signatures of all committee members including the manuscript and abstract in an electronic version to the TGGS within the period specified by the KMUTNB Academic Calendar for the Dean approval.

Failure to comply as stated in Paragraph 1, the student will not be able to graduate. The student must register in order to maintain his/her student status until submit the master project manuscript, or until his/her student status is terminated.

Item 56Measurement of Master thesis is considered from progress and success of research work assign together with outcomes of the defense examination.

Item 57Evaluation of Master Project Proposal Examination

(1) “Pass” refers that the title is approved.

(2) “Pass with revision” refers that the student must revise the master project and submit to TGGS through the advisor and the curriculum chairman within 30 days after the examination date. The title will be approved.

(3) “Fail” refers that the student must retake the exam with a new title and a new advisor.

Item 58Evaluation of Master Project Defense Examination

After the Master Project Defense Examination, the examination committee will discuss, comment, and make the decision according to the following criteria:

(1) “Pass” refers that the student presents the project work and answers questions with satisfactory without any amendments or essential content.

A student is required to submit one copy of the manuscript with signatures of all committee members immediately but no more than 15 days after the examination date.

(2) “Pass with revision” refers that the student presents the project work and answers questions with satisfactory. However, the examination committee requests the student to include amendments or essential content and/or rewrite the manuscript according to the committee’s comments and suggestions as stated in the evaluation form.

A student is required to revise according to the committee’s comments and suggestions and submit one copy of the manuscript with signatures of all committee members immediately but no more than 30 days after the examination date.

(3) “Fail” refers that the student cannot present the project work and answer questions because he/she does not have sufficient knowledge and competence in research work.

A student who fails the first defense examination must submit a request form for retaking of the defense examination within the duration specified by the examination committee. Failure to comply within the specified time, the student will receive the grade “U” as the evaluation result for all registered credits of master project. The student must register the master project with a new topic and start the entire master thesis process. The duration of the study must be in accordance with the student’s status conditions.

Item 59 The result of defense examination will be recorded on the student’s transcript when he/she graduates with the assessment of the letter grade (A to F) according to Item 43.

Item 60 The master project approved by the Dean is considered to be official and complete master project.

Item 61 A student who is eligible to graduate must complete the following requirements.

(1) Study Plan A Type A1

a. Register the master thesis according to the study program and the submission of the master thesis within the duration of study, no more than 5 academic years, with a minimum GPA of 3.00

b. Pass the Master Thesis Defense Examination

c. Submit the complete master thesis including the manuscript and abstract in an electronic version and abstract to the TGGS within the period specified by the KMUTNB Academic Calendar and the Dean has approved.

d. Publish (or acceptance to be publish) the entire or part(s) of the master thesis in an international academic journal or other accepted academic publications in the database announced by the Commission of Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation or Civil Service Commission in Higher Education Institutions (OCSC); or in the international conference proceeding (paper) with full paper in the SCOPUS database. The publication must be written in English and according to the TGGS Regulation and Announcement. The student is required to submit at least one publication.

e. Pass English Proficiency Examination with score according to the TGGS Regulation and Announcement.

(2) Study Plan A Type A2

a. Complete the coursework and pass all examinations according to the study program and the submission of the master thesis within the duration of study, no more than 5 academic years, with a minimum GPA of 3.00

b. Pass the Master Thesis Defense Examination

c. Submit the complete master thesis including the manuscript and abstract in an electronic version to the TGGS within the period specified by the KMUTNB Academic Calendar and the Dean has approved.

d. Publish (or acceptance to be publish) the entire or part(s) of the master thesis in the international conference proceeding (paper) with full paper or an international academic journal or other accepted academic publications. The publication must be written in English and according to the TGGS Regulation and Announcement. The student is required to submit at least one publication.

e. Pass English Proficiency Examination with score according to the TGGS Regulation and Announcement

(3) Study Plan B

a. Complete the coursework and pass all examinations according to the study program and the submission of the master thesis within the duration of study, no more than 5 academic years, with a minimum GPA of 3.00

b. Pass the Comprehensive Examination

c. Propose the Master Project Title and pass the Master Project Defense Examination

d. Submit the complete master project including the manuscript and abstract in an electronic version to the TGGS within the period specified by the KMUTNB Academic Calendar and the Dean has approved.

e. Publish the entire or part(s) of the master project in any form that can be searched.

f. Pass English Proficiency Examination with score according to the TGGS Regulation and Announcement

(4) Comply with other requirements as stated in the curriculum

(5) In case of taking additional courses or other academic activities without earning any credits, the achievement must be according to the set forth in the course.

Item 62 The degree will be approved by the university council. To be eligible for a degree, a student must fulfill the following qualifications:

(1) The student must meet requirements as stated in Item 61.

(2) The student must follow the TGGS regulations and procedure.

(3) The student must be cleared of any outstanding academic debts in relation to his/her studies to the university.

(4) The student must be free from any disciplinary actions imposed upon his/her out of disciplinary punishment, except in the case of petty offences according to the university disciplinary regulation.

(5) The student must have appropriate behave.

Item 63 All Master degree programs of TGGS are under the quality accreditation according to the Ministry of Education’s Qualifications Framework for Higher Education. The assessment for revision must be conducted at least every 5 years.

Item 64 While regulations and procedures conferring to this regulation have not been announced, regulations and procedures conferring to “the Regulation of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok Concerning Master Degree Education (REM) of The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS) 2017″ signed on 27 September 2017 can be applied. However, they must be announced within 90 days as of REM 2020 is announced.

Item 65 TGGS students who are pursuing their degree and enrolled at the university prior semester 1/ 2017 and have not graduated, the students must follow “the Regulation of The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS) 2011″ signed on 16 June 2011 and its regulations and procedures until graduated.

TGGS students who are pursuing their degree and enrolled at the university staring semester 1/ 2017 to 2/2019 and have not graduated, the students must follow “the Regulation of King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok Concerning Master Degree Education (REM) of The Sirindhorn International Thai-German Graduate School of Engineering (TGGS) 2017″ and its regulations and procedures until graduated.