Contemporary Democratic Politics Diss (970M9)
Contemporary Democratic Politics Dissertation
Module 970M9
Module details for 2026/27.
60 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
The dissertation forms a compulsory component of the MA in Contemporary Democratic Politics. All MA students design and carry out a research project under one-to-one supervision with a supervisor from the faculty. They are required to produce a 15,000-word dissertation on a topic of their choice, in line with the module learning outcomes.
The aim of the dissertation module is to deepen students’ critical knowledge and understanding of the challenges of contemporary democratic politics, and to develop appropriate research skills. Students are encouraged to apply the theoretical and practical principles of research methodology which are addressed in the ‘Researching Democracy’ module, as well as attending dedicated dissertation workshops, provided as part of this module. The workshops provide a general introduction into how to research and write a dissertation, but most of the work is undertaken independently by each student, with appropriate support from their supervisor
Module learning outcomes
Critically evaluate existing literature in the field before developing original analysis of a question agreed with your supervisor.
Demonstrate a good theoretical understanding of the subject matter analysed in the research project.
Ensure that all research work, whether empirical or theoretical, is carried out in a professional and ethical manner, and in accordance with appropriate methodological principles.
Plan and execute a substantial research project on a topic in the area of contemporary democratic politics, drawing on a wide variety of different source materials.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Dissertation (15000 words) | Summer Vacation Week 14 Tue 16:00 | 100.00% |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring & Summer Teaching | Lecture | 1 hour | 101010100000 |
| Spring Semester | Practical | 6 hours | 000000001000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
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