Dissertation (Criminology)

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Undertake the collection, analysis and interpretation of qualitative, quantitative or documentary data to investigate your chosen key research questions; or carry out a literature-based study on selected research issue.
• Write up the process of carrying out independent research and report your results with reference to existing literature.
• Apply the research training acquired in the taught element of the programme by designing an appropriate research strategy and research methodology to carry out your research.
• Acquire the following transferrable and generic skills: -Carrying out independent research. - Identifying and summarising relevant literature. - Collecting, analysing and interpreting data. - Report writing. - Referencing and other aspects of academic writing.
• Carry out a literature review of the relevant field.
• Identify key research questions within the field of Criminology upon which you will carry out independent research.
• Understand and apply theoretical frameworks to the chosen area of study.
• Manage your time effectively whilst working on your independent research.
• Draw out the implications of your research for further research and policy/practice.

The module will include:

• a Dissertation Workshop in semester 2 to outline 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);
• meetings with your Dissertation Tutor over the summer period;
• and 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 Tutor. You will be given guidance on the preparation of your dissertation via a Dissertation Workshop in semester 2 and through general support and direction by your Dissertation Tutor while you are carrying out your independent research and writing it up. Your Dissertation Tutor will meet with you during the summer period to discuss progress of your dissertation, advise you on the structure and comment on outlines of chapters.

Teaching and learning methods

Teaching methods include workshop and dissertation supervision tutorials with Dissertation Tutor.

Learning activities include workshop, dissertation supervision tutorials, independent study, and conferring with library staff and key experts or practitioners if the field relevant to your Dissertation topic.

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 Information

Repeat type: Internal & External