SMP416: Dissertation
The Dissertation module is led by Viren Ranawana. It runs throughout the academic year and is worth 45 credits.
Module description
The module provides students an understanding of the processes and the skills required to undertake a supervised research project in their chosen study area.
Having successfully completed the module, a student will be able to:
- demonstrate researcher skills commensurate with the achievement of a masters degree
- demonstrate independence of inquiry
- produce a cogently argued piece of writing that demonstrates researcher competence and the ability to operate independently
- address issues of research design, methodology, ethics and theoretical arguments
- locate their own research in relation to these issues
Objectives
By the end of the module, students will be able to:
- identify and refine an appropriate research question
- apply principles of research design to the question, and select an appropriate methodology
- undertake either primary, secondary data collection, or a literature review
- analyse data using an appropriate methodology
- evaluate the ethical implications of their research, and if required submit a successful application to a research ethics committee
- assess critically the findings of their research for public health or health service delivery
- present the findings of their project in a written report
Teaching
This module can also be taken as part of the following courses:
This module is not available as a DDP module.
The teaching methods aim to give the students the confidence to undertake an original piece of research with the support and guidance of supervisors.
Seminars and lectures will be used to outline what is expected from students and to help them develop their research question and proposal ensuring that all projects comply with both ethics and governance requirements.
Specific sessions will prepare students for obtaining appropriate ethical approval for their research.
One-to-one supervision sessions will provide a formal process of support to the students throughout the project including comments on drafts of the dissertation.
Fees and funding
You can find out more about fees and funding for CPD modules in the School of Medicine and Population Health at the link below. We accept sponsored as well as self-funding students.
How to apply
Find out what you need to do to apply for a CPD module in the School of Medicine and Population Health.
Contact
For more information on this module, speak to the lead academic:
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
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