Master's in Four Competition

Master in Four is a research communication competition that aims to help master's students develop academic, presentation, and research communication skills. Moreover, it supports the development of students' capacities to effectively explain their research in language appropriate to an intelligent but non-specialist audience.

Master's students who have earned 18 hours of graduate coursework toward the degree may compete in the Master's in Four Competition during which they have four minutes, and four slides, for them to explain their research to a diverse audience.

Monetary prizes: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners are selected by judges while the "People's Choice" winner is selected by the audience's vote.

Are you eligible?

Currently enrolled master's students with at least 18 hours of graduate coursework earned toward the degree.

Doctoral students are not eligible.

What are the prizes?

1st place:
2nd place:
3rd place:
People's Choice:

What are the rules?

Four minute time limit to present on topic.
A maximum of four slides that have no animation, embedded video, audio, or movement of any kind.
A solo, non-technical oral description of the student's research or creative endeavors.
No props, notes or costumes are allowed.

What are the judging criteria?

A maximum of 16 points may be earned.
The following will be rated by the judges:
- Opening/hook captures the audience's attention
- Strength of the introduction
- Organized, evidence-based body
- Presentation of topic is appropriate for a non-expert audience
- Presenter demonstrates a strong personal interest
- Conclusion summarizes the main points
- Delivery is well-prepared and presented with confidence
- Slides enhance the presentation