TIM Thesis

What is a TIM thesis?

A TIM thesis is an original research project conducted by students enrolled in the Master of Science in Technology Innovation Management (MSc in TIM) program at Carleton University. It is a scholarly, in-depth study that contributes to the field of technology innovation, entrepreneurship, or business analytics.

The thesis is completed under the supervision of a faculty member and follows Carleton University’s graduate thesis requirements. It involves a rigorous process of research, data analysis, and academic writing, culminating in a final document that is reviewed and defended before a panel of experts.

A TIM thesis typically includes:

• A clear research question grounded in technology innovation or business strategy.
• A literature review that contextualizes the study within existing research.
• A research methodology outlining the approach used to collect and analyze data.
• A discussion of findings and their implications for businesses, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.
• A conclusion summarizing key insights and recommendations.

The TIM thesis process encourages students to explore innovative solutions to real-world challenges, making a significant contribution to industry knowledge and academic research.

Why write a TIM thesis?

Writing a TIM thesis provides a unique opportunity for students to develop expertise in a specialized area of technology innovation and business management. Here’s why pursuing a thesis in the TIM program is valuable:

1. Develop Deep Expertise

A thesis allows students to focus on a specific challenge within the fields of entrepreneurship, AI, business analytics, or technology commercialization. By conducting original research, students gain in-depth knowledge and analytical skills that set them apart in their careers.

2. Enhance Research and Analytical Skills

The thesis process trains students in critical thinking, research design, and data analysis, equipping them with skills that are highly valued in both academic and industry settings. These skills are particularly useful for students interested in consulting, policy development, or PhD programs.

3. Contribute to Industry and Academia

TIM theses often address real-world business challenges and propose actionable solutions for technology firms, startups, or innovation ecosystems. The research findings can inform business strategies, policy decisions, and future academic studies.

4. Open Doors to Career Opportunities

Graduates who complete a thesis gain a competitive edge in job markets that value specialized expertise and research capabilities. Many alumni use their thesis research to:

• Secure leadership roles in technology companies and startups.
• Launch their own ventures based on insights gained during their research.
• Pursue doctoral studies in innovation management or related fields.

5. Work with Industry Leaders and Experts

Throughout the thesis journey, students collaborate with faculty supervisors, industry professionals, and fellow researchers, building a network that can support their career growth.

Thesis Requirements

Electronic Thesis Deposit

Formatting Guidelines

Thesis Checklist

Thesis Forms, Templates & Policies

Thesis Title Search

Link to main thesis requirements page

What does a TIM thesis involve?

Writing a TIM thesis is a structured process that requires rigorous academic research, industry relevance, and methodological discipline. The journey from research idea to thesis defense includes several key stages:

1. Defining the Research Question:

• Identify a specific problem or opportunity within technology innovation, entrepreneurship, or business analytics.
• Conduct a literature review to position the study within existing research.
• Formulate a clear research question and objectives that guide the study.

2. Developing the Research Methodology:

• Choose an appropriate research approach (qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).
• Design a study that aligns with academic standards and industry relevance.
• Secure ethics approval if working with human participants or sensitive data.

3. Conducting Research and Data Collection:

• Gather data through surveys, interviews, case studies, experiments, or secondary sources.
• Ensure methodological rigor and data validity.
• Analyze findings to derive meaningful insights for academia and industry.

4. Writing and Structuring the Thesis
A TIM thesis follows a structured format, including:

• Introduction (research problem, objectives, and significance).
• Literature review (existing research and theoretical framework).
• Methodology (research design, data collection, and analysis).
• Findings and discussion (interpretation of results and implications).
• Conclusion (summary, contributions, and recommendations).

5. Submission and Defense

• Submit the thesis in an examinable format by the university’s deadlines.
• Present and defend the research before an academic committee.
• Address feedback and make final revisions before submission.

Who Supports the Thesis Process?

• Supervisors: Provide guidance on research direction and methodologies.
• Advisory Committee (if applicable): Offers additional expertise and feedback.
• Graduate Studies Office: Manages deadlines, formatting requirements, and thesis submission.