Dissertation

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Identify key questions in the area of official statistics and conduct independent research to address them.
• Use and develop writing skills.
• Build a literature review, identifying and critically assessing the relevant literature on the field of interest.
• Make use of appropriate referencing styles and other aspects of academic writing.
• Identify appropriate data sources, conduct statistical analysis and synthesise your findings.

The module will include:

• information made available via Blackboard and the programme handbook which outlines expectations for the preparation of the Dissertation (guidelines, aims, choice of topic, period of study, supervision, length, layout, language, referencing, bibliography, figures/tables, risk assessment form, ethics, disclaimer, binding);
• Students are required to submit an outline to their supervisor by mid/late June (or at a date agreed with the module coordinator for part-time students). The expected length for the outline is around 1000 words. It is a compulsory formative piece of work.;
• meetings with your Dissertation Supervisor to discuss progress;
• independent study.

As part of this module, you will be offered an opportunity to discuss and agree the topic of your dissertation with the MSc Programme Co-ordinator and your allocated Dissertation Supervisor

Teaching and learning methods include dissertation supervision sessions with supervisor and independent study, although there will be some formal lectures. These supervision sessions may take place online or face-to-face depending on circumstances and feasibility. The outline will be marked by the supervisor. Written feedback will be given. Extra verbal feedback may also be given.

Formative

This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.

Research outline

• Assessment Type: Formative
• Feedback: The outline will be marked by the supervisor. Written feedback will be given. Extra verbal feedback may also be given.
• Final Assessment: No
• Group Work: No

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.

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.