This module is not currently running in 2021 to 2022.
The dissertation work is carefully structured across the whole academic year. On entry to the MSc programmes, students are made aware of the need to consider their dissertation during the taught part of the programme and to do some preparatory work in terms of selection of research topic and investigation of the availability of data before the beginning of the dissertation working period. They receive guidelines on the writing of economics dissertations and they receive various talks and advice above the researching and writing of their dissertation. Students are allocated an appropriate member of staff as dissertation supervisor.
Total contact hours: 12
Private study hours: 488
Total study hours: 500
100% Dissertation (12,000 words)
• Biggam, John. Succeeding With Your Master's Dissertation: A Step-By-Step Handbook. 4th Edition. Open University Press, McGraw-Hill Education, 2018
• Wallace, Mike and Alison Wray. Critical Reading and Writing for Postgraduates. 3rd Edition. Sage Publications Ltd, 2016
• Ridley, Diana. The Literature Review: A Step-By-Step Guide for Students. 2nd Edition, Sage Publications Ltd, 2012
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
• significantly develop their ability to analyse complex theoretical problems, apply advanced econometric techniques to economic data and be able to carry out an in-depth investigation
• substantially develop their ability to interpret their empirical results and draw appropriate conclusions at a high level of abstraction and generalization
• notably deepen their knowledge of one particular area of economics and linked this knowledge to neighbouring eras of economics and/or social sciences
• make a contribution towards knowledge about the topic that they have investigated
• critically frame and motivate a research question, involving new concepts and approaches
• significantly enhance their ability to retrieve information comprehensively and efficiently from library and internet sources
• carry out a literature review in the context of contradictory existing evidence and multiplicity of opinions
• learn how to manage their time to meet deadlines at various stages of the project and maintain effective communication on the range of complex issues arising within the project
• learn how to write a report of their research making connections between known and unknown areas and motivating further work on the topic of interest
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.
