The dissertation is an extended piece of substantial independent research (15,000 words) on a topic suitable and appropriate to the programme on which they are enrolled (e.g., students on the MA Islamic Studies will write on a topic related to Islamic Studies, students taking the MA Holocaust and Genocide will write on a topic related to the Holocaust and/or Genocide). The dissertation topic is chosen by the individual student, but subject to approval by the Department.
Students work closely on an individual basis with a supervisor (i.e. a member of staff appointed to assist them and guide them through their research). Students should meet with their supervisor regularly to report on progress and discuss their dissertation. Formal supervision normally takes the form of six meetings totalling no more than six hours spaced over the summer. These meetings should be arranged at the mutual convenience of the supervisor and student, with each making reasonable accommodations. The Supervisor may advise on the scope and approach of the dissertation as a whole, and provide detailed feedback on ONE version of each draft chapter, but is not permitted to see or comment on the final draft or on multiple drafts of individual chapters. No drafts may be submitted to supervisors for comment in the last FOUR weeks prior to the submission deadline.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Work independently, taking responsibility for the progress, content, and presentation of a sustained piece of individual research;
Demonstrate detailed knowledge of, and critical engagement with, the relevant primary and secondary literature in a particular field of study;
Describe and employ a research methodology appropriate to the subject matter, including an awareness of research ethics;
Demonstrate effective time management, ensuring that the relevant interim and final deadlines are met;
Present an extended piece of research in an appropriate manner, e.g. in terms of structure and organisation, referencing, etc.
