Dissertation in Politics & International Relations

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Implement a well-formulated research design/method and conduct independent data collection/evidence gathering
• Review relevant academic literature and critically assess the main arguments and explanations proposed by scholars to answer the research question addressed in the dissertation
• Analyse evidence and assess the explanatory power of theoretical arguments in light of empirical findings/evidence
• Identify a research puzzle, formulate a clearly stated research question, and justify the topic of the dissertation.

The researching and writing of an 8,000 word dissertation is a year-long project of largely independent study. The examiners will be looking for evidence that the thesis accurately reflects the title. They will look for a clear analysis and a coherent, consistent argument, informed by a good knowledge of available sources. They will expect accurate spelling, punctuation, grammar, good general presentation, etc., correct and complete referencing, and a full bibliography. These criteria are to be met by the student being examined, whilst a supervisor will offer formal advice as to structure and argument. Students will be assigned an individual supervisor, but also receive guidance via whole cohort lectures. Students will get formal training on how to write a dissertation in different fields of political science and will be offered tailored advice on how to successfully complete a piece of original research.

As part of the module, students:

(1) are assigned a dissertation supervisor

(2) attend whole cohort lectures, group meetings with their supervisor, and individual meetings with their supervisor (those on Study Abroad may miss some meetings, but will have access to Blackboard).

(3) submit 2,000 words of short assignments (500 words and 1,500 words) that, following revision based on the grade and feedback received, become constitutive parts of the dissertation

(4) submit the 8,000 words dissertation.

2 hours of lectures per week. All will be recorded and posted on Blackboard. Lectures will be delivered either face to face or online only depending upon University and Public Health England Guidance at the time. Total of 24 hours of lectures (2 hours per week X 12 weeks) per module.

Weekly student participation in online discussion boards. 1 hour per week delivered asynchronously. (1 hour X 12 weeks)

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.