Skip to main content

UMD Three-Minute Thesis Competition

The 3MT competition challenges students to communicate the significance of their research projects to a non-specialist audience in just THREE MINUTES! The University of Maryland Graduate School invites graduate students from all disciplines to compete in the annual Three-Minute Thesis Competition (3MT). 

The first-round college-level competitions occur in March.  Winners from the first-round competitions win a college-level prize and advance to the final round 3MT competition.

Participation in the 3MT competition provides students with...

  • Experience in presentation skills and public speaking
  • Practice talking about their research to a non-specialists audience
  • Better perspective about how their research fits into the larger picture
  • An opportunity to learn how to showcase their work to prospective employers
  • Networking opportunities with students and faculty on campus
  • An overall positive experience that promotes academic and professional growth
  • Recognition and prizes

2024 3MT Guidelines (2025 guidelines coming soon)

Preparing a 3MT presentation:

Read the 3MT guidelines carefully.
Take advantage of some of the 3MT resources available.  
Consult with your college-level 3MT contact to learn more about your college-level competition.
Attend a 3MT Workshop
View 3MT presentations from 2024 on this YouTube Recording.

Important 2025 Dates for 3MT Participants

DATE EVENT
Feb. 26 Deadline to register for the 3MT Competition
March 5 If college level first-round is virtual, deadline to submit 3MT video and slide.
March 5-31 College-level 3MT Competitions. College-level winners to be announced by March 31, 2025.
April 1-15 Semi-finalists prepare for final round competition
April 16 Final Round 3MT Presentations (in-person). Winners and honorable mentions announced April 18, 2025

View the History and Overview of the 3MT Competition for more information.

Back to Top