Module QXE-4090:
The Postgraduate Dissertation
The Postgraduate Dissertation 2024-25
QXE-4090
2024-25
School of Arts, Culture And Language
Module - PGT
60 credits
Module Organiser:
Andrew Webb
Overview
The Dissertation module constitutes Part Two of the MA, and represents the culmination of the programme of study in the production of a substantial piece of scholarly research. Students are required to produce a dissertation on a literary topic, the precise nature of which will be agreed in consultation with the supervisor. Early meetings will be used to discuss ideas, resources, and approaches, later meetings to discuss final drafts of the dissertation.
Assessment Strategy
-threshold -50-59%A Pass (C) candidate鈥檚 work will show many of the following qualities:鈥 satisfactory level of knowledge, analysis and expression.鈥ome familiarity with, and understanding of, relevant theoretical issues.鈥enerally sound organisation of argument, with some critical ability.鈥ccurate expression.鈥ompetent use of quotation and references. -good -60-69%/BA candidate鈥檚 work reaching Merit will show many of the following qualities:鈥n advanced level of factual knowledge.鈥ignificant [substantial] knowledge of relevant theories and types of analysis.鈥ome evidence of original thought.鈥he ability to organise and argue effectively, make balanced judgements, and demonstrate critical thought.鈥luent and accurate expression.鈥ompetent use of quotation and references. -excellent -70%+/ATypically, the work of a candidate reaching Distinction will show many of the following qualities:鈥horough knowledge and understanding of relevant theories and types of analysis.鈥horough knowledge of a range of sources and the capacity to engage these critically.鈥ntroduction and discussion of original ideas.鈥elevant, well-organised and sophisticated argument.鈥igh ratio of analysis to exposition.鈥aturity, clarity and cogency of expression.鈥xcellent handling of quotation and references.
Learning Outcomes
- Evaluate the concepts and techniques currently being applied in the chosen field at an advanced level.
- The ability to communicate persuasively and unambiguously in writing at an advanced level.
- The ability to document evidence using an appropriate system of referencing at an advanced level.
- The ability to frame hypotheses and to evaluate them against counter-arguments and counter-evidence at an advanced level.
- The ability to read primary texts critically, with a view to their content, form, and context, and to employ evidence thus acquired in support and development of an argument at an advanced level.
- The ability to select a methodology or methodologies appropriate to the chosen subject and demonstrated at an advanced level.
- The ability to structure a complex argument in essay form at an advanced level, incorporating a range of primary and secondary evidence.
Assessment method
Dissertation
Assessment type
Summative
Description
Dissertation
Weighting
100%