Thesis Path offers support for international students in networking with employers and in searching for thesis placement.
What is Thesis Path?
Are you an international student at Tampere university and looking for your Thesis placement?
Thesis Path offers you information, career workshops, coaching, company events and training to support you in your search for thesis placements.
To offer this support university is collaborating with various partners such as International House Tampere, local employers and trade unions.
Finding a Thesis placement
Finding a thesis topic and a placement in a company or organization is a process that requires initiative, self-reflection, and persistence. Especially for international students, it may feel unfamiliar at first—but with the right approach, it is achievable. Thesis Path events and workshops are here to support you in your journey.
A practical piece of advice to start with: begin early!
Finding a Thesis project requires an early start, building professional connections well in advance. In many cases in Finland, the path to a successful Thesis project begins through an internship, traineeship, or summer job in your field. Employers are often more willing to offer a Thesis position to someone they already know and trust. By gaining practical experience with an organization, you have the opportunity to demonstrate your skills, learn about the workplace, and build valuable relationships with potential supervisors and colleagues.
An ideal scenario is to secure a summer job after your first year in the Master’s programme. Use that opportunity to make a positive impression, develop your professional network, and gain insight into the organization’s work. Later, when it comes time to start your Thesis, you may be able to return to the same employer with an established track record and a foundation for collaboration. Application periods for summer season often start at the beginning of the year in Finland. Stay alert.
Clarify your interests
Before you begin searching, it is essential to understand what genuinely interests you within your field of study. Your thesis is a major project, so choosing a topic that motivates you will make the process more meaningful and manageable.
Reflect on your courses: Which subjects or assignments have you enjoyed the most? Identify themes: Are you interested in practical applications, research, innovation, or specific industries? Consider also your career goals: What kind of work do you see yourself doing after graduation?
Having a clear idea of your interests helps you target the right organizations and propose relevant thesis ideas.
Develop your professional network
Finding a thesis placement often depends on connections. Many opportunities are not publicly advertised, so networking plays a key role. Use existing contacts: classmates, alumni, teachers, or previous employers if you have such. Attend events: career fairs, company presentations, seminars, and workshops and use online platforms: LinkedIn is especially useful for connecting with professionals in your field.
Building a network takes time, so start early. Do not hesitate to reach out to people—many professionals are open to helping students if approached politely and clearly.
Research companies and organizations
When looking outside academia, you need to actively explore companies and organizations that match your interests. Start by identifying companies in your field or industry and learn about their projects, challenges, and focus areas. Think about how your thesis could contribute to their work. Thank help you to formulate concrete ideas.
Communicate your competencies
When contacting a company, you need to clearly explain who you are and what you are looking for. Describe your field of study and current skills and explain your thesis interests and possible topics. Highlight what value you can bring to the organization.
Employers are often interested in students who can connect academic knowledge with real-world needs.
Learn to pitch
One of the most important skills is the ability to present yourself confidently and convincingly. Prepare a short “pitch” about yourself, which focuses on your strengths, skills, and motivation. Do not underestimate your potential. Even if you feel you lack experience, your academic knowledge, fresh perspective, and motivation are valuable assets.
Be proactive
Finding a thesis placement rarely happens instantly. Usually it takes approaching many people and sending multiple messages and applications. Remember to follow up if you do not receive a response. Ask for feedback, learn from it and improve your approach. contact helps you refine your communication and better understand what organizations are looking for.
Securing a thesis placement outside academia is both a challenge and an opportunity. It allows you to gain real-world experience, build professional connections, and strengthen your employability. With time, effort, and persistence, you can increase your chances of finding a placement that supports both your studies and your future career.
General and faculty specific instructions on Masters´s Thesis in Tampere University
There are instructions on Master´s Thesis in technology/architecture and for non-technical fields. Faculties have their own instructions on the process and evaluation of the Thesis work. Take your time to familiarize yourself with these instructions.
In cooperation
