Three Minute Thesis Competition

Speaker in auditorium with Red Wolves sign on podium.

3MT™ at Arkansas State University

3MT Logo

The Three Minute Thesis (3MT™) Competition is an international competition that inspires scholars to communicate their research in ways that connect with society at large.

At Arkansas State, the competition has two parts: the Abstract Submission phase, and the Final Competition phase. Students will be asked to submit an abstract of no more than 250 words, which includes a description of the importance of their scholarly work. Ten students will be selected for the Final Competition where they will present their 3-minute Thesis to a panel of judges and an audience. The presentations will be recorded and the winning presentations will be hosted on the Graduate School website.


Abstract Submission Deadline: March 20, 11:59 p.m.
Final Competition: April 16, 1:30-3:00 p.m. in the Reng Auditorium

Submit Abstract

What is 3MT™?

The Three Minute Thesis (3MT™) is a research communication competition created by the University of Queensland (UQ) in Australia. The purpose of the competition is to help students improve presentation skills. It promotes the development of student’s ability to effectively explain their research in language appropriate to an educated but non-specialist audience. This is achieved by concisely explaining their ideas and discoveries in a way that resonates to broader audiences.

Eligibility

Graduate students currently enrolled and actively engaged in a research project, thesis or dissertation are eligible. The project must include specific objectives or research questions and how you will support your conclusion. A well-conceived project and novel story are essential for a winning presentation.

Application

First, you must apply to be considered as a finalist for the Final Competition. The application has four requirements:

  • Complete Application Form
  • Submit 250-word abstract
    • Describe research conclusions and broader impact
    • Explain the importance of project to broader impact
    • Be written in English and easily understood by non-specialist audience
  • Submit one PowerPoint Slide
  • Submit one photo of presenter

Deadline for Application: March 20, 11:59 p.m.
Notification of Acceptance for Final Competition: March 27

Submit Abstract

 

Information & Resources

  • A single static PowerPoint slide is permitted. No slide transitions, animations or 'movement' of any description are allowed. The slide is to be presented from the beginning of the oration.
  • No additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) are permitted.
  • No additional props (e.g. costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment) are permitted.
  • Presentations are limited to three minutes maximum and competitors exceeding three minutes will be disqualified.
  • Presentations are to be presented in the spoken word (e.g. no poems, raps or songs).
  • Presentations are to commence from the stage.
  • Presentations are considered to have commenced when a presenter starts their presentation through either movement or speech.
  • The decision of the judging panel is final.

This criteria has been adopted from the Georgia State University 3MT™ competition with permission.

Comprehension & 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 their presentation - or did they elaborate for too long on one aspect? Was the presentation rushed?

Engagement & 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 their research?
  • Did the presenter capture and maintain their 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 (i.e. was it clear, legible, and concise?)?

Winner: $1,000 Tuition Scholarship

Runner-Up: $750 Tuition Scholarship

Second Runner-Up: $500 Tuition Scholarship

People’s Choice Award: $250 (Audience members will vote for the "People's Choice" winner at the Finals)

Queensland University FAQ for Presenters

Queensland University Guide for Presenters

Tips for a Winning Presentation

Mistakes to Avoid in Presentation

Storytelling for 3MT™


3MT™ Workshop Hosted by the Communication Center
April 1, 2026
1:00 p.m. in the Library 6th Floor Conference Room (Graduate School Office)
After the workshop, presenters can schedule individual consultations with the Communication Center.

Got Questions?

Connect With Us.

For more information, contact Dr. Brad Rawlins, Associate Dean of the Graduate School.
brawlins@AState.edu
870-972-3029