The thesis is the most significant learning experience of the programme.  It is a capstone of the course in that students are expected to apply theories learned in the taught courses to analyse and understand/solve organizational issues/problems.  In other words, students are expected to do applied research that has practical implications for organizations.  It is not enough to simply make a contribution to theory, although such contributions, in conjunction with practical contributions to the professional practice of management are encouraged.  This is in contrast with a PhD thesis, which places more emphasis on the development of new knowledge and theoretical perspectives.  Students are expected to research real organizational issues by drawing upon and applying appropriate theories and research.  Research methods and analyses should be aligned properly with the research question(s).  The key objective is that by going through a systematic process of investigation, students will enhance their competencies in doing research.  The thesis will normally be around 50,000 words, and it should be of publishable quality.