HST405 Dissertation in Historical Research

75 credits, Full year
Module leader 2024-25: Sebastian Gehrig. See also dissertation supervision availability

Module summary

Students undertake an intensive individual research project, based on an identifiable collection of primary sources and present their findings in a dissertation of 18,000 words. The dissertation represents an original and sustained piece of independent research and should be based on a substantial primary source base and demonstrate a thorough and advanced knowledge of the secondary literature. In certain cases, primary evidence may also consist of modern historiography. Through the dissertation, students demonstrate their practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create, interpret and evaluate historical knowledge. Students will work under the supervision of an expert member of staff who will provide guidance and regular tutorial support.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, you will be able to:

Demonstrate an ability to engage in independent and advanced research within a defined area of historical enquiry
Demonstrate a capacity to formulate and sustain a logical and original historical argument based on the information collected
Demonstrate an ability to work from a range of primary sources, providing appropriate and accurate evidence to support historical argument, and referencing the sources of the evidence used
Demonstrate an ability to write about the past in good English, showing an awareness of history as a literary discipline and a developing sense of literary style

Assessment methods

Assessment type - % of final mark

Dissertation (18,000 words) - 100%

Formative milestones with feedback from your supervisor will take place throughout the year: in semester one you will confirm a more detailed dissertation title. In semester two, you will submit a 1,000 word synopsis form which may include information on: sources, historiographical context, methodological and/or theoretical approach, outline of dissertation structure and research questions. This will be followed by a 2,000 word literature review.

These tasks ensure that you have identified a viable research problem as well as important works in the secondary scholarship, and form part of the basis for discussions with your supervisor.

Additional learning and teaching information

Teaching and indicative seminar plan:

You will be allocated a supervisor at the start of the academic year based on the expression of your research interests. You will receive an email confirming your supervisor(s) by the end of week one. You are advised to contact your supervisor in the early weeks of semester one to discuss ideas. In your first meeting you and your supervisor should discuss the kind of support needed, and should arrange to meet regularly to discuss progress.

You will also attend a two hour workshop in semester one which offers general advice on producing the dissertation, and a further workshop in the second semester which builds on this advice. By the end of the second semester, you will normally have made good progress with the research and will continue writing the dissertation over the summer. Meetings may be less frequent, or virtual, during the summer vacation but students can expect their supervisor to read a draft of the dissertation and offer comments either via email or in person.

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