Bachelor’s Final Project: What Is It and How Do You Write One?

Completing a university degree in Spain involves passing a mandatory academic project that validates the knowledge acquired throughout the programme. In postgraduate studies, this project is known as the Master’s Final Project (TFM), an academic requirement regulated within the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). According to Royal Decree 822/2021, the TFM is a compulsory subject designed to demonstrate the student’s ability to apply technical, analytical and methodological skills independently.

In this context, understanding what a TFM is and how to develop it successfully is particularly relevant for students enrolled in programmes such as a Global MBA or a Master in Finance.

What is the purpose of the TFM?

The main objective of the Master’s Final Project is to assess whether the student has acquired the necessary competencies to operate in a specialised professional or research environment. The TFM is not simply about writing an academic document, but about demonstrating analytical thinking, autonomy and the practical application of knowledge.

From an academic perspective, the TFM serves to integrate all the learning developed throughout the master’s programme. This involves applying methodological tools, technical expertise and research skills to solve a specific problem or develop an applied proposal.

In programmes focused on business environments, such as the Master in Supply Chain Management & Logistics, the TFM often centres on real business situations. For example, it may analyse logistics process optimisation, operational automation or the impact of digitalisation on the supply chain.

Another key purpose of the TFM is to strengthen professional autonomy. Students are expected to manage a complex project from beginning to end, from selecting the topic to defending it before an academic panel. This process helps develop competencies related to planning, decision-making and strategic communication.

In addition, the TFM can become a valuable professional positioning tool. Many students use this project to specialise in a specific area, build professional connections or even develop business ideas applicable to the job market.

In master’s programmes focused on leadership and business management, such as the International MBA, the TFM may take the form of business plans, market studies or internationalisation strategies.
From an academic standpoint, the TFM also ensures compliance with European higher education quality standards. Its structure and assessment verify that the student has achieved MECES Level 3, corresponding to official master’s-level studies.

Finally, the project also fulfils an ethical and academic integrity function. Writing a TFM requires proper citation of sources, avoiding plagiarism and justifying all information used. In a context where artificial intelligence is increasingly present, universities require transparent and responsible use of digital tools.

Main differences between the Bachelor’s Final Project (TFG) and the Master’s Final Project (TFM)

Although the Bachelor’s Final Project (TFG) and the Master’s Final Project (TFM) share a similar structure, there are important differences related to depth of analysis, level of specialisation and academic demands.

• The main difference lies in the educational level. The TFG evaluates general competencies acquired during undergraduate studies, whereas the TFM focuses on advanced and specialised postgraduate knowledge.
• In the TFG, students usually develop broader and more descriptive topics. In contrast, the TFM requires much more specific and critical analysis. For example, a TFG may explore the impact of social media on companies, while a TFM could focus on employer branding strategies to attract tech talent in multinational corporations.
• There are also differences in terms of autonomy. In the TFG, the tutor generally plays a closer and more guiding role. In the TFM, students are expected to work more independently and demonstrate stronger decision-making skills.
• Methodology is another key differentiator. TFM projects typically involve more complex and well-justified methodologies, especially in areas related to market research, finance, human resources or business management.
• In terms of length, the TFM generally involves a heavier workload. Although it depends on each university, a TFG is usually between 30 and 50 pages, whereas a TFM can easily exceed 80 pages.
• Another important difference is professional orientation. The TFM is more closely linked to solving real business problems. This is particularly visible in programmes such as the Master in Human Resources, where students develop proposals related to talent management, leadership or organisational transformation.

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In addition, academic panels usually expect a stronger argumentative level in a TFM. Conclusions should provide added value and demonstrate critical thinking, rather than simply summarising existing information.
The academic purpose also differs. While the TFG marks the end of a general university education, the TFM validates professional specialisation within a specific field

Stages and key aspects of the TFM

Completing a TFM requires planning, consistency and strong organisational skills. One of the most common mistakes is leaving the project until the final weeks, which often negatively affects the quality of the final outcome.
The development process can be divided into several key stages.

Topic selection

The first important decision is choosing a viable, relevant topic aligned with the student’s professional interests. It is advisable to select a subject that allows easy access to reliable information and data.
It is also important to define the scope correctly to avoid topics that are too broad. A focused approach facilitates analysis and improves the overall quality of the project.

Research and literature review

Once the topic has been defined, the research phase begins. The quality of the sources directly impacts the credibility of the TFM.

Students are encouraged to use academic databases, official reports and specialised publications. Google Scholar, Dialnet and reports from organisations such as the INE and BBVA Research are especially useful resources.

Defining objectives and methodology

At this stage, the general and specific objectives of the project are established, along with the methodology to be used.

The methodology may be:

• Quantitative  
• Qualitative  
• Mixed  
• Experimental  
• Case-study based  

The chosen methodology must be justified according to the objectives of the project.

Writing the content

The writing phase requires organisation and coherence. The text should maintain a clear, precise and well-structured academic style.

It is advisable to work in sections and progress gradually. Many students choose to write the methodology and theoretical framework before developing the conclusions.

Review and proofreading

Before final submission, it is essential to review:

• Spelling and grammar  
• Academic formatting  
• Bibliographic citations  
• Internal coherence  
• Quality of arguments  

It is also important to ensure that all tables, charts and appendices are correctly integrated.

Preparing the oral defence

The final stage of the TFM is the oral defence before an academic panel. The presentation should be clear, visual and focused on the project’s most relevant aspects.

The ability to synthesise and defend arguments is just as important as the written document itself. Practising the presentation several times before evaluation often makes a significant difference.

Types of TFM and how long each one takes

Not all Master’s Final Projects have the same structure or purpose. Their typology depends on the field of study, the objectives of the programme and the student’s professional focus.

Research-based TFM

This type of project aims to generate new knowledge through hypotheses, data analysis and scientific methodology.

It is common in academic or research-oriented programmes and usually requires more time due to statistical analysis, fieldwork or data collection.

Estimated duration:

• Between 6 and 12 months  
• Between 300 and 900 hours of work  

Professional or applied TFM

The goal is to solve a real business problem or propose an improvement strategy.

This format is common in areas related to business management, logistics, finance or human resources.

In programmes such as the Master in Supply Chain Management & Logistics, students often develop projects linked to operational optimisation or technological innovation.

Estimated duration:

• Between 4 and 8 months  
• Between 250 and 500 hours  

Business plan

Very common in MBA programmes, this type of TFM analyses the feasibility of a business or entrepreneurial project.

It includes:

• Financial analysis  
• Commercial strategy  
• Market research  
• Operational plan  
• Financial projections  

A business plan requires combining strategic analysis with business vision, something especially valued in programmes such as the Global MBA.

Estimated duration:

• Between 5 and 9 months  
• Between 300 and 600 hours  

Literature review

This type of project involves critically analysing existing studies and publications on a specific topic.

Although it does not require fieldwork, it does demand extensive documentary research and analytical skills.

Estimated duration:

• Between 3 and 6 months  
• Between 150 and 350 hours  

The total duration of a TFM also depends on the number of ECTS credits assigned. In Spain, a TFM usually carries between 6 and 30 ECTS credits, equivalent to approximately 150 to 900 hours of work.

Other influencing factors include:

• Student availability  
• Methodological complexity  
• Access to information  
• Technical level of analysis  
• Coordination with the tutor  

For this reason, it is advisable to start planning as early as possible and maintain a consistent work routine.

Basic structure of a TFM and tips for completing it successfully

Although each university establishes its own formal requirements, most TFMs share a similar academic structure.

Cover page and table of contents

The cover page must include all necessary institutional and academic information.
The table of contents should accurately reflect the structure of the document and facilitate navigation for the reader.

Abstract

This is a brief summary of the project. The abstract should explain the main objective, methodology and most important conclusions.

It is usually presented in both Spanish and English.

Introduction

The introduction contextualises the topic and justifies its relevance.

It also includes:

• Study objectives  
• Research question  
• Hypothesis  
• General structure of the document  

Theoretical framework

This section reviews the existing literature related to the topic.

It is important to use updated and reliable academic sources.

Methodology

This section explains how the study was conducted.

It should specify:

• Type of research  
• Tools used  
• Procedure followed  
• Sample analysed  
• Analysis techniques  

Results and discussion

This section presents the findings obtained.

The results should be interpreted and linked to the objectives established at the beginning of the project.

Conclusions

The conclusions should directly answer the research question and provide critical reflection.

They may also include:

• Study limitations  
• Future lines of research  
• Practical applications  

Bibliography and appendices

The bibliography should follow a consistent citation style, usually APA 7.

Appendices include supporting material such as questionnaires, tables or interviews.

Tips for producing a strong TFM

• Choose a motivating and viable topic  
• Maintain a weekly planning routine  
• Use official and up-to-date sources  
• Avoid excessively long paragraphs  
• Continuously review the coherence of the text  
• Prepare the oral defence in advance  
• Request feedback from the tutor throughout the process 

It is also advisable to consult industry reports and trends related to the area of specialisation. This adds relevance and a professional perspective to the project.

Reliable sources for gathering information and the use of ChatGPT

The quality of a TFM depends largely on the sources used. Working with reliable information improves academic credibility and strengthens the project’s arguments.

The most recommended sources include:

• Official institutions  
• Academic databases  
• Scientific journals  
• Industry reports  
• Institutional publications  

In Spain, the National Statistics Institute (INE) is one of the main references for economic, labour and social data.

Other important organisations include:

• Eurostat  
• CRUE Spanish Universities  
• ANECA  
• Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities  
• UNESCO  

In business and employability contexts, platforms such as LinkedIn and Glassdoor are useful for consulting labour market trends, in-demand skills and salary ranges.

Using ChatGPT in a TFM

Artificial intelligence has become a common tool within universities. However, its use must be ethical and transparent.

ChatGPT can support idea organisation, writing improvement or project structuring, but it should never replace the student’s critical thinking.

Among its most recommended uses are:

1. Generating initial ideas  
2. Improving text clarity  
3. Creating structural outlines  
4. Reviewing grammar and style  
5. Summarising extensive information  

However, there are also significant risks.

Risks of incorrect AI use

• False or fabricated information  
• Non-existent references  
• Lack of originality  
• Excessive dependence  
• Potential plagiarism issues  

For this reason, all information obtained through artificial intelligence should always be verified using real academic sources.

In addition, many universities already require students to declare the use of generative AI in academic projects.

The ultimate goal of the TFM remains demonstrating knowledge, analytical ability and professional autonomy. No technological tool can fully replace these competencies.

Ultimately, completing a TFM successfully involves combining rigorous research, organisation, critical thinking and communication skills. Beyond being a university requirement, this project represents an opportunity to demonstrate professional readiness and specialisation in an increasingly competitive job market.