Dissertation for MA in Social Science Research (Social Policy and Social Work)
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| SOCI4027 | Sociology and Social Policy | 4 | 60 | Summer UK |
- Code
- SOCI4027
- School
- Sociology and Social Policy
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 60
- Semesters
- Summer UK
Summary
Students will be expected to work under supervision on a project of their choice related to their subject area. Students' research work will be supported by their allocated supervisor, graduate school courses and the taught modules offered earlier in the programme.
Target Students
Only available for MA Social Science Research (Social Policy and Social Work) pathway students.
Classes
Students will be allocated a supervisor to support their dissertation work.
Assessment
- 100% Coursework: 12,000 words.
Assessed by end of summer vacation
Educational Aims
The aim of the dissertation is for students to demonstrate that they have the skills and knowledge to enable the identification of a researchable question, develop a research proposal, carry out a literature review and conduct pilot work.Learning Outcomes
On completion of the dissertation, students should be able to demonstrate the learning outcomes that are associated with the MA programme, as follows:
a) Knowledge and Understanding
- A critical and reflexive understanding of the research that is carried out within Social Policy and Social Work.
- The theories that have shaped and continue to shape the specific discipline.
- Alternative epistemological positions within the disciplines that provide the context for theory construction, research design, and the selection of appropriate analytical techniques.
- Principles of research design and strategy.
- The kinds and, where appropriate, mix of data that are needed to address specific research questions within the disciplines.
- The ethical and political concerns that are implicit in a range of methodological approaches.
b) Intellectual Skills
- Ability to formulate researchable problems.
- Ability to appreciate the range of alternative approaches to research.
- Ability to critically assess research reports.
- Ability to develop reasonable and coherent arguments.
c) Professional Practical Skills
- Ability to define and formulate research problems and questions.
- Capabilities for managing, conducting and disseminating research.
- Bibliographic skills including the ability to identify key resources (e.g., library, internet) and how to use them.
d) Transferable (Key) Skills
- Skills in project initiation, management and development.
- A critical, applied, problem solving and analytical approach.
- Written communication skills.
- Ethical skills.