Mab's MA Blog

* The dissertation should not exceed 15000 words (excluding footnotes and appendices). It has a credit rating of 60 credits.

* The dissertation is a major piece of independent study, normally combining original research with a thorough analysis of the established literature in the relevant area. The ability of the student to complete this successfully is central to demonstrating his/her capacity at Master's level.

* Before the dissertation can be formally registered the proposal must be discussed with the Supervisor and submitted for approval to the Examination Board.

* The dissertation... is a substantial piece of work. It may be conceived of as a 'problem solving' exercise; for example the exploration of a neglected area with a view to contributing to scholarly inquiry or a critical review and adjudication on a topic of scholarly dissension. In either case, a 'narrow' narrative approach is insufficient.

* The dissertation should normally include:

* an awareness of differing and competing methodologies (eg Marxist vs Liberal interpretations; quantitative and qualitative issues);
* a critical consideration of the historiographical debate;
* a comprehensive review of the secondary literature;
* the use of primary sources.

* The dissertation must be typewritten, double or one-and-a-half spacing. Single spacing may be used for footnotes or indented quotations. Pages must be numbered.

* Initially one soft ring-bound copy should be submitted. If it passes, then one hard-bound copy must be submitted.

* The dissertation should be laid out as:

Title Page
Contents
List of Tables (if applicable)
Abbreviations (if applicable)
Acknowledgements
Abstract (approx 300 words)
Main body of work (divided into chapters)
Appendices (if applicable)
Bibliography