3MT Competition
The University of Memphis Graduate School is proud to host its inaugural Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) Competition founded by The University of Queensland. This exciting event challenges UofM graduate students to present their research, scholarship, or creative work in just three minutes to a general audience.
The 3MT® Competition celebrates the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, concisely, and engagingly beyond academic audiences.
Through this competition, graduate students have the opportunity to:
- Showcase your research to the broader UofM community
- Build confidence in public speaking
- Strengthen professional communication skills
- Prepare for conferences, interviews, and future career opportunities
- Connect with fellow graduate students and faculty across disciplines
Participants will present their work using only one static slide and three minutes of spoken presentation time.
Submit Your Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Entry Form
Ready to compete? Submit the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Entry Form to enter the competition and showcase your research in just three minutes and provide a link to your recorded presentation. Your video may be hosted on YouTube, Vimeo, or another online video-sharing service.
3MT Presentation Rules & Parameters
Before submitting your entry, please review the following requirements:
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Keep it to three minutes: Presentations must be 3 minutes or less. Competitors who exceed the three-minute limit will be disqualified.
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Stay visible: The presenter must remain visible on screen throughout the entire presentation. The presentation may not consist solely of a voiceover. Both the presenter and the required static slide must remain visible for the duration of the presentation.
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Use spoken word: Presentations must be delivered as spoken word. Poems, raps, songs, or other formats are not permitted.
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Start the clock: A presentation is considered to have commenced when the presenter begins through either movement or speech.
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Use one static slide: Competitors must use one single static slide, which must be visible from the beginning of the presentation. Slide transitions, animations, and other slide movements are not permitted.
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No additional media: Additional electronic media, including sound or video files, are not permitted.
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No props: Additional props—including costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment, or other physical materials—are not permitted.
Tip: Your goal is to communicate your research clearly and engagingly to a general audience. Keep your presentation focused, practice your timing, and make every second count!
Competition Timeline: Fall 2026 Schedule
- September 29: 3MT Informational & Resources Workshop hosted by the UofM Libraries in the McWherter Library 2nd floor Commons from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM - RSVP HERE for the workshop!
- Open Sept 30th - Closing Oct 14th: Deadline to upload 3MT presentation video
- October 28 - Winners of First Round Notified
- November 11: UofM 3MT Competition in the UC Theatre start time is 3:30 p.m.
Additional competition details and deadlines will be added as the event approaches.
Whether your research is conducted in a lab, classroom, archive, studio, or community setting, 3MT® helps you share why your work matters.
Awards & Recognition
The competition will be separated into two categories: Master’s students and Doctoral students.
Awards (for each category):
- Winner: $750
- Runner-up: $500
Additional Awards:
- People’s Choice Award: $100
Finalists:
- All finalists will receive certificates of participation
Additional Benefit:
- Travel support (transportation and two nights hotel) to compete in the Regional Conference held at the Conference of Southern Graduate Schools in February 2027 will also be provided for the winner of the doctoral category.
