Graduate School

Three Minute Thesis

The Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is an academic research communication competition developed by The University of Queensland (UQ), Australia.

It challenges graduate students to explain the significance of their research projects to a general audience in three minutes or less. Additionally, 3MT® provides a great opportunity for you to develop communication skills, showcase your research, as well as open doors to new collaborations and networks, all while competing for cash awards. 

What is 3MT®? 

3MT Registration

Submit 3mt presentation

Eligibility

• All Master's and PhD students at Southern Miss in all programs are invited to participate.
• Students enrolled in 100% online programs can participate virtually. 

Why participate in 3MT®?

Participation in the 3MT® competition at Southern Miss can strengthen graduate student communication skills, promote their field of research to the campus and the general public, and advocate the value of research and how it positively impacts their lives. Winners will be provided cash prizes including:

Grand Champion: $1,000
Runner Up: $750
People's Choice Award: $500
Each of the Eight Finalists: $250

The 2026 3MT Grand Champion will represent The University of Southern Mississippi at the Regional 3MT competition held at the Conference of Southern Graduate Schools in Arlington, Virginia, on February 17-19, 2027.

What 3MT® resources can I take advantage of?

Workshop Registration

workshop video

Workshop Video

What are the rules for 3MT®? 

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 static PowerPoint slide is permitted (no slide transitions, animations or 'movement' of any description, the slide is to be presented from the beginning of the oration). Wide format (16:9).
• 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 3 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.

What is the judging criteria for 3MT®? 

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?

For questions, please contact Shaadi Shoubaki at Shaadi.ShoubakiFREEMississippi.