BA Dissertation International Relations (004IR)
BA Dissertation (International Relations)
Module 004IR
Module details for 2022/23.
30 credits
FHEQ Level 6
Module Outline
The International Relations Undergraduate Dissertation serves as a capstone module integrating all that students have learnt during their programme of study into a single, sustained piece of writing allowing them to explore a topic in depth. The module involves the design, planning and execution of the dissertation, with the support of a supervisor, and may include the collection of empirical data or the use of secondary source material. Students choose their own topics, and develop their own approaches to investigating that topic, drawing on earlier skills-based modules, the methodology training offered within the module itself and on interests developed through the degree programme.
Students are asked to write a 1,000 word proposal during semester 1 (ESS, AB1, 10% of assessment weighting) and an 8,000 word dissertation in semester 2 (DIS, AB1, 90% of assessment weighting).
Students are provided with academic support over two semesters. In the winter semester students are offered six 2 hour workshops where they are coached in research methods commonly used in the IR discipline. During this period students are expected to investigate a subject area and define their topic that leads to the completion of a 1,000 word proposal. Students will then be assigned a supervisor who will provide supervision during the spring semester. Spring supervisions are broken down into three, thirty-minute meetings. The final 8,000 word dissertation will be completed for AB2.
Module learning outcomes
1. Develop students’ ability to manage their own learning and to make use of scholarly reviews and primary sources.
2. Apply methods and techniques of analysis and enquiry to critically evaluate arguments, assumptions, abstract concepts and data relevant to International Relations.
3. Devise and sustain arguments and/or solve problems over an extended piece of work.
4. Use ideas and techniques drawn from International Relations in order to produce an extensive investigation that allows the student to develop an appreciation for the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of knowledge
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 10.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Essay | T1 Week 11 | 100.00% |
| Dissertation (8000 words) | Semester 2 Assessment Week 1 Tue 16:00 | 90.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Workshop | 2 hours | 11111011000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Dr Christopher Hesketh
Convenor
/profiles/520481
Dr Melanie Richter-Montpetit
Assess convenor
/profiles/349663
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.