Dissertation in Religion in Global Politics

Key information

Start date
End date
Year of study
Any
Duration
Full
Module code
15PSRC987
FHEQ Level
7
Credits
60
Department
Department of Religions and Philosophies

Module overview

Objectives and learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course, a student should be able to demonstrate:

  • A comprehensive mastery of appropriate theoretical and regionally focused literature
  • The ability to develop research questions, design a research project, and explain methodological, epistemological and ethical issues related to a proposed research project
  • The capacity to apply and combine theoretical and empirical knowledge to the topic in question;
  • The skills to pursue independent research from secondary and in some cases primary sources in a chosen topic
  • An ability to organise data and articulate arguments coherently and clearly

Scope and syllabus

The dissertation should demonstrate a critical understanding of the relevant literature, develop a focused and clear argument, supported by the relevant use of theoretical material and evidence. It should include:

  • A review of the relevant theoretical and empirical literature
  • An outline of the specific questions to be addressed, methods to be employed, and the expected contribution of the study to debates in the interdisciplinary field of religion and politics
  • An informed and comprehensive assessment of published surveys, data sets or other tabulated material that relate directly to their research interest
  • A discussion of the practical, political and ethical issues likely to affect the research

Method of assessment

  • One 1,500 word project proposal and outline (20%)
  • One 10,000 word dissertation essay (or equivalent alternative, 1-hour presentation and viva voce) (80%)

Word count is defined as the number of words contained in the submitted work including quotations, footnotes, titles, abstracts, summaries and tables of contents. Appendices and bibliographies are not included in the word count. Appendices will not normally be marked and they must not include material essential to the argument developed in the main body of the work.

Convenor

Guidelines for preparation of Masters dissertations

Postgraduate Taught Degree Dissertation Guidelines

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules.