Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2011-2012 (archived)

Module BUSI40N45: DISSERTATION (DL MA)

Department: Business School (Business)

BUSI40N45: DISSERTATION (DL MA)

Type Open Level 4 Credits 45 Availability
Tied to

Prerequisites

  • Research Methods (DL).

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To provide students with the opportunity to analyse a practical, relevant management issue in some depth, demonstrating a critical understanding of the relevant theory and its applications. The investigation must be embedded in a current broader context, allowing students to utilise knowledge and skills gained throughout the Programme.

Content

  • Students select a topic for their dissertation, which is approved by the Board of Examiners. The topic should involve the analysis of a relevant management issue in some depth, demonstrating a critical understanding of the relevant theory and its applications.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • To have developed a critical understanding of a relevant management issue and the most appropriate techniques of analysis.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • To have developed advanced skills of research, critical analysis and scholarly expression in a chosen management topic.
Key Skills:
  • To have developed advanced skills of research, critical analysis and scholarly expression.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Each student is allocated a supervisor to provide support throughout the dissertation phase, assisting with any queries and providing advice where appropriate. Supervision is normally provided at a distance and may be conducted by email, telephone, post or fax.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Supervision 4
Research, Preparation and Writing 446
Total 450

Summative Assessment

Component: Dissertation Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Dissertation 12,000 words (maximum) 100%

Formative Assessment:

None.


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University