- Sustained and independent study into a topic area of the students’ choice related to Criminology.
- Research undertaken by students may be primary or secondary.
- Ethical approval will be required for primary projects.
- Clear guidance and support around every section of the dissertation report.
- Refreshers on skills learnt at level 5, e.g. around project design, methods, and data analysis.
- Project supervision with nominated supervisor.

1. A Research proposal which outlines initial ideas on the project. The work should contain a research question, a summary of the background to the topic, aims and objectives, methodology and ethical considerations, expected outcomes and a timeline.

2. A written report detailing the background, methodology, results, discussion and conclusions of the research project, as well as recommendations for further work.

3. You have the choice of disseminating your research project at a conference style event or undertaking a viva-voce examination. If choosing the dissemination, you will disseminate your research to professionals within the field. You may choose from presenting a poster presentation or a short verbal presentation using professional communication skills suitable for an audience of practitioners and academics. If choosing the viva-voce examination, this will entail a question and answer session on the project showing an appreciation of its findings and significance in a wider context as well as reflection on your own experience in conducting the research.

This module will largely be independent study by the student, supported by an allocated staff member as the students’ project supervisor who they will be expected to meet on a regular basis. Timetabled sessions will include a mixture of knowledge and skills refreshers, optional sessions, writing retreats and assignment support.

1. Formulate a research question and plan a research project to address it, demonstrating awareness of ethical considerations.

Research skills

2. Critically review relevant literature and apply appropriate theoretical frameworks.

Research skills

3. Design and implement a research methodology suitable for answering a chosen research question.

Research skills; Application & Problem Solving

4. Communicate effectively about research finding and analysed data to academic audiences.

Communication

5. Critically reflect on the research process and its implications for criminological theory and practice.

Reflection

6. Reflect on research, professional and transferable skills and competencies developed as a consequence of undertaking independent research.

Personal development & entrepreneurship

- SPSS
- NVivo
- Qualtrics

Cottrell, S. (2017) Dissertations and Project Reports: A Step by Step Guide. 1st edn. London: Bloomsbury Publishing.

Pears, R. (2025) Cite them right : the essential referencing guide . Thirteenth edition. Edited by G.J. Shields. London; London : Bloomsbury Publishing PLC; Bloomsbury Academic.

Williams, K. and Reid, M. (2023) Planning Your Dissertation. Third edition. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc.

Wisker, G. (2019) The undergraduate research handbook [electronic book]. 2nd ed. London : Red Globe Press.

Ready to take your criminology knowledge to the next level?
Is there a topic in Criminology that excites you, you’ve found interesting or you’re passionate about? This module offers you the opportunity to research a topic of your choice in depth and produce a substantial piece of independent research. You will apply your research knowledge and independently design, plan and implement a research project, analysing the data collected and presenting findings and conclusions to answer your research question. The final year dissertation is the pinnacle of your degree and showcase of your learning.