Dissertation 100 credits MSc by Research (Political Theory) (P03117)

? Credit Points : 100 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : SPS-P-P03117

The dissertation is an extended piece of independent scholarship in the field. It is the main work in which students demonstrate achievement of crucial learning outcomes for the MSc by Research, drawing on relevant material covered in the taught element of the degree and through supervision. The dissertation should be between 20,000 and 25,000 words in length.

The dissertation for the MSc by Research typically takes the form of a discrete piece of research, possibly a pilot study for the eventual doctoral research.

Entry Requirements

none

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Postgraduate (School of Social and Political Science), (School of Social and Political Science, Schedule J)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Block 5 and beyond

? Contact Teaching Time : 1 hour(s) per week for 20 weeks

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

Students should:

- demonstrate the ability to carry out a sustained piece of independent scholarship, involving project and time management
- where relevant, come up with credible conclusions (eg, on the implications of a pilot study for a fuller study)
- produce written scholarship in line with research and bibliographic conventions

In this 100 credit dissertation, the dissertation will normally include a more comprehensive review of relevant literature and/or some pilot research as well as the full proposal. In addition, the elements required for 80 credits will normally be more developed: eg, additional specific canonical bibliographic data relevant to the research topic; full use of empirical examples where appropriate; more advanced engagement in salient debates, concepts or theory.