Introduction:
There are a number of issues that must be addressed when selecting a good thesis topic. In the following paragraphs we will explore the most common. As you read this it is important to keep in mind that the ultimate goal of the thesis is to contribute to the learning in a given subject area. This does not mean that you create a new theory which will change the course of human history. Instead, the masters thesis is designed to simply allow the advanced student an opportunity to contribute in s small way to the broader spectrum of understanding in their given subject. In short, to receive a master's degree you should be able to demonstrate that you have mastered a given topic.
Where to Start
Why are you in this program?
That may seem like an odd question, especially for an essay on how to chose the thesis topic. The simple truth is that you are in this program for some reason. Most are in the program because they have an interest in forensic science, criminal investigation, or related areas. Others are in the program to enhance their education so that they can teach. Still others are in the program because they want to continue their education to a higher level. By starting with the reason you are in this program we can begin to understand what motivates you. Chances are that motivation will also contain a hint at the perfect thesis topic for you.
A good place to start is to look back at your undergraduate study. Was there a class that really excited you? Was their a topic within a class that you wish you knew more about? As an example, when you took Criminal Law was there a form of crime that peeked your interest more than others? How about criminology, was there something in the theory of crime that interested you? Are there topics that you already have an interest in and just need a chance to explore them?
Your influence does not have to come from the Criminal Justice area. Another class or subject may be just the thing to start you down the path to the perfect thesis. An art class may have struck your interest, and now you can translate that into a thesis topic by exploring the area of art fraud and investigation.
Do not limit yourself to only college classes. The simple question is, "What interest you?" It may be a hobby, a social interest, a classic novel, or just about anything. The secret is to find something that interest you and then look at the potential forensic/investigative issues.
Go to the Library
Take a look at what has been published for the last few years. Each of the articles in these journals contains a challenge for new research. Chances are the article addresses one specific (and often very small) part of a larger investigative area. These articles will give you an idea about the area of coverage but will also contain an analysis of the current state of investigative technique. The article will also identify those areas where an issue or shortfall occurs. These are great sources for new and ongoing research.
Ask Friends and Family
Sometimes you are simply too close to the topic to be able to see it. What you need is someone who does not understand the topic as well as you do. Someone who has less understanding will often have more questions. These questions may be very simple, but they are also very legitimate. Take some time to talk with friends and family about your area of study. Do not make it a lecture series so that you can prove your superior knowledge. Instead, make it a chance for them to tell you what they know or don't know. You may surprised at the topics that come up. When you find you are excited about explaining a topic to them then maybe you have found the topic for your thesis.
Attend a Conference or Training Session
The are a number of professional and academic organizations that offer opportunity to find research topics. Attending one of these is a great way to begin extending your contact list. It is also a great way to hear the professionals talk about the investigative process. Even if you can not attend the conference in person take some time to find out what the agenda was. Chances are one of the topics presented at the conference may spark an interest.
Question Existing Assumptions or Hypotheses
The Sun rotates around the Earth. Of course we all know that is not true (or at least most of us can agree that is not true). At one time, though, there were many people who believed this to be true. By questioning an existing assumption or hypothesis many of our greatest discoveries have been made. The same can be said about many topics in criminal investigation or forensic science. The secret to success is to find the topic that still has questions available.
Combine and Collate
A surprising number of theories have application outside their original area. Combine information from several sources to arrive at a new conclusion or discovery. Validate earlier research by redoing a study or by looking at conclusions from a new angle.