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.