Graduate School
Three-Minute Thesis Details
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The Graduate School's annual Three Minute Thesis Competition will take place at the
Joe Paul Theater on October 31 and November 1, 2024. The Three Minute Thesis (3MT®)
is an academic research communication competition developed by the University of Queensland
in Australia. 3MT participants are asked to describe their thesis or dissertation
in a three-minute presentation, clearly conveying the complexities of their topic
and research to a nonacademic audience. The competition provides an excellent opportunity
for students to hone their 30-second elevator pitch and win monetary prizes while
doing so. 3MT is open to all graduate students, and students enrolled in 100% online
programs can participate virtually.
3MT Registration Deadline: Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 5pm
- Grand Champion - $1,000
- Runner-Up - $750
- People's Choice - $500
- Each of the Eight Finalists - $250
- The presentation must describe current research. Research for which a degree was previously awarded or which was done at another institution is not allowed.
- A single (8 1/2" x 14” landscape) static PowerPoint slide is required (no slide transitions, animations or “movement” of any description, the slide is to be presented from the beginning of the oration).
- No additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) are permitted.
- No additional props (e.g. pointers, note cards, costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment) are permitted.
- Presentations are limited to three minutes maximum, and competitors exceeding three minutes are disqualified.
- Presentations are to be spoken word (e.g. no poems, raps or songs).
- Presentations are considered to have commenced when the presenter starts their presentation through movement or speech.
- The decision of the judges is final.
Comprehension and Content
- Did the presentation provide an understanding of the background to the research question being addressed and its significance?
- Did the presentation clearly describe the key results of the research including conclusions and outcomes?
- Did the presentation follow a clear and logical sequence?
- Were the thesis topic, key results, and research significance and outcomes communicated in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience?
- Did the speaker avoid scientific jargon, explain terminology and provide adequate background information to illustrate points?
- Did the presenter spend adequate time on each element of his/her presentation - or did the presenter elaborate for too long on one aspect or was the presentation rushed?
Engagement and Communication
- Did the oration make the audience want to know more?
- Was the presenter careful not to trivialize or generalize their research?
- Did the presenter convey enthusiasm for the research?
- Did the presenter capture and maintain the audience's attention?
- Did the speaker have sufficient stage presence, eye contact and vocal range; maintain a steady pace, and have a confident stance?
- Did the PowerPoint slide enhance the presentation - was it clear, legible, and concise?