Unit information: Dissertation (Social Policy) in 2018/19

Unit name	Dissertation (Social Policy)
Unit code	SPOL30017
Credit points	40
Level of study	H/6
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24)
Unit director	Professor. Pantazis
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	SOAD20004
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School for Policy Studies
Faculty	Faculty of Social Sciences and Law

Description including Unit Aims

The dissertation is a piece of independent study enabling the student to select a field of inquiry and carry out research in depth over a sustained period of time. Student learning is supported by regular individual and, at times, group supervision, though the expectation is that the dissertation is primarily an individual piece of work.

The unit aims to:

1. provide the student with the chance to investigate a topic of their own choice (within the broad framework of social policy)
2. enable the student to develop and apply knowledge and understanding gained elsewhere in the programme through independent study and learning
3. enable the student to enhance the practical and transferable skills of locating and using knowledge and information, conveying ideas in written format, planning and managing their time

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the unit, the student will demonstrate, through the production of an extended piece of work:

1. understanding of, and ability to apply relevant theory to their chosen topic
2. understanding of, and ability to select a relevant form of, methods of enquiry
3. ability to plan and carry out a sustained piece of independent study.

Teaching Information

Dissertation workshops

Individual study supported by regular, negotiated academic supervision

Assessment Information

Summative : One formal dissertation proposal of 2 000 words

One 10 000 word dissertation

Reading and References

To be negotiated with the supervisor.