FN0347 Dissertation

Synopsis of module

This module (or equivalent from other Divisions) will be taken by all students pursuing an Honours Undergraduate Degree at NBS. It consists of an individual student led investigation into an applied business (or the named degree) problem or issue. The student must choose and define the topic, research relevant information (either primary or secondary), set that information in the context of an appropriate intellectual framework, draw relevant conclusions, write up, and submit the work in approved format, target length 10,000 words. A support lecture programme and an individual dissertation supervisor will be provided.

Indicative reading list

Gill, J. and Johnson, P. (1997) Research Methods for Managers (2nd edition). Paul Chapman Publishing, London.

Saunders, M., Lewis, P., and Thornhill, A. (2000) Research Methods for Business Students (2nd edition). Pearson Education, London.

White, B (2000) Dissertation Skills for Business and Management Students. Cassell, London.

UG Dissertation Guidelines

Outline syllabus

The support lecture programme will include such topics as title selection, information sources, literature review, research approaches, analysis and interpretation of data, and writing up.

Aims of module

1.	To introduce the nature of an undergraduate dissertation.

2.	To identify the role and importance of the component parts of a dissertation and their relationship to each other.

3.	To explore the nature of synthesis within the dissertation enabling critical application of a coherent body of knowledge to a research topic.

4.	To develop student application of intellectual and transferable skills to the research process.

Learning outcomes

1.	Identify and refine a suitable topic.

2.	Evaluate, analyse and apply appropriate research skills and techniques within a clear methodology.

3.	Conduct a literature review. This involves the critical evaluation of appropriate theories, models, frameworks and principles.

4.	Draw appropriate inferences and conclusions from the analysis of findings.

5.	Critically consider research results in the context of the literature review.

6.	Plan, manage and submit the dissertation within the stated framework.

Learning and teaching strategy

This involves a student led investigation into an applied business (or the named degree) problem or issue. The student will be supported in their learning by a lecture programme and individual supervision by a suitable qualified member of academic staff.

Formative assessment will take place within the contact sessions and may take place through tasks set and theory / practice related discussions.

Once submitted the UG Dissertation will be internally assessed independently by two academic members of staff, normally the supervisor and a second marker. A standard marking instrument will be used.