Module: CRI7115-60 MSC Criminology Dissertation (Distance Learning)

Level: 7

Credit Value: 30

Module Tutor: Rainer-Elk Anders

Module Tutor Contact Details: r.anders2@bathspa.ac.uk

1.Brief description and aims of module

The dissertation consists of a research project based on a topic that you will choose in consultation with a supervisor. Your topic might be an area of interest that has emerged through your studies or it could be linked to a professional role or a career aspiration. You will undertake independent scholarship and research and the format of the project will depend upon your aims, focus of study and chosen methods of research.

You will begin the dissertation by working through a series of tasks delivered through blended learning in class and on Minerva, e.g. developing a research question, writing a proposal, etc. supported by a module tutor. After completion of the tasks, you will be allocated an individual supervisor who will have responsibility for guiding you to completion of your dissertation. It will be the joint responsibility of you and your supervisor to design a schedule for the undertaking of the dissertation in relation to appropriate targets of progress. To assist you, you will be given detailed dissertation guidance. This will provide information about the administrative arrangements for the dissertation; guidance on the characteristics and objectives of the dissertation; conventions governing the organising of work for a dissertation and the form of its presentation; the criteria for assessment and the assessment procedures.

2.Outline syllabus

The curriculum will be drawn from topics which may include:

● Dissertation topic ideas – finding a focus

● Research ethics

● Planning and preparation

● Formulating research questions

● Source materials and information management

● Methods of data collection

● Data analysis and writing up

3.Teaching and learning activities

Your dissertation is supervised by experienced staff, but it is a student-centred piece of independent work. This module will be delivered through an initial combination of weekly interactive online tasks and discussions. You will then work on a one-to-one basis with your supervisor.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: Dissertation (15000 words)
• % Weighting: 100%