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Sociology

You are here Postgraduate > MSc in Comparative Social Change > Course Structure and Handbook

Dissertation 

Module Code: SO7300/SOC40920

  • ECTS Credit : 30
  • Mandatory/ Optional : Mandatory
  • Module Coordinator : Prof Daniel Faas,Trinity and Dr Gerard Boucher, UCD

Module Description:

The aim of this module is to complete a research project and present the outcomes in the form of a research dissertation. In conjunction with the research supervisors, students will complete a substantial body of research and present their findings in the form of a dissertation. The research skills demonstrated by the student will be considered in relation to the formulation, logic and coherence of the research question, appropriateness of the research methodology selected, theoretical understanding of the research area. As part of the Research Methods module, students will have completed a detailed research proposal. Through this proposal students will have formulated an appropriate and feasible research question with the support of their supervisor. Execution of the research activity will be conducted by students in association with their supervisors, who will be staff members of both universities.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of the module students should be able to:

  • Devise, develop and complete a substantial, intellectually challenging research project related to their field of study;
  • Selectively apply concepts, theories, methods and subject-specific terminology used in the field of study with rigour and discrimination;
  • Relate the specific research topic appropriately to wider social change issues, debates or concerns;
  • Present a coherent argument that draws on an engagement with and critical appraisal of existing knowledge relevant to the research project.

Lectures & Tutorials/ Contact hours:

  • Module Length: 22 weeks (Full year)
  • Workload: Readings: 50hrs; Summative assessment (e.g. essays, journals): 550hrs. Total: 600 hours

Recommended Texts

Key Reading:

  • Best, S. (2012) Understanding and Doing Successful Research: data collection and analysis for the social sciences, Pearson.

Assessment

  • Dissertation: 20,000 words max