Module overview
In recognition of the importance of the dissertation, it is treated as the equivalent of the workload of two third-year units. As such, you should treat it as a quarter of your workload in each third-year semester and plan your work accordingly.
In preparing your dissertation you should bear in mind that marks are awarded for the structure of an argument as well as its content. Readers should be given ‘signposts’ regarding this structure. An argument that is well developed and sub-divided in a logical and systematic fashion will be more compelling than a ramble through the subject. A good dissertation will focus on a definite topic, and will develop a coherent analysis of this topic, showing evidence of the application of social scientific theories and methods.