A dissertation, length 15,000 words, weighted at 100%
Learning Outcomes 1-4

The dissertation consists of a research project based on a topic that you will choose in conjunction with a supervisor. You will begin the dissertation by working through a series of tasks on Blackboard, e.g. developing a research question, writing a proposal, etc. supported by a dissertation module tutor. After completion of the ten tasks, you will be allocated an individual supervisor who will have responsibility for guiding you to completion of your dissertation. It will be the joint responsibility of the student and the supervisor to design a schedule for the undertaking of the dissertation in relation to appropriate targets of progress. To assist you, a dissertation guidebook will be issued. This will provide information about the administrative arrangements for the dissertation; guidance on the characteristics and objectives of the dissertation; conventions governing the organising of work for a dissertation and the form of its presentation; the criteria for assessment and the assessment procedures.

Blackboard preparation tasks: 10 hours
Individual supervision: 10 hours
Independent study time: 580 hours

A computer with internet connection for accessing Blackboard, course texts and course learning packs.

Library resources including books, journals, data bases cd-rom, websites, e-journals, e-brary and other electronic resources.

IT facilities including word processing.

MA IR and Regional Specialisms Dissertation Guidance Booklet (produced annually).

Biggam ,J. (2015) Succeeding with Your Master’s Dissertation: A Step-by-Step Handbook, 3rd edition, Open University Press.

Bryman, A. (2012) Social Research Methods, 4th edition, Oxford University Press.

Furseth, I. and Everett, E. (2013) Doing Your Master’s Dissertation: From Start to Finish, Sage.

1. INTEGRATE ELEMENTS OF YOUR LEARNING ON THE PROGRAMME AS A WHOLE INCLUDING AN EMPHASIS ON POLITICAL ECONOMY AND SECURITY ISSUES IN THE REGION YOU HAVE STUDIED.
[Analysis; Knowledge and Understanding; Reflection]

2.CRITICALLY EVALUATE THE RELATIONS BETWEEN THE REGION THAT YOU HAVE STUDIED AND THE INTERNATIONAL/GLOBAL SYSTEM.
[Analysis; Knowledge and Understanding]

3. APPLY SKILLS OF RESEARCH (USING PRIMARY AND/OR SECONDARY SOURCES).
[Application; Enquiry; Learning; Problem Solving]

4. CRITICALLY UNDERSTAND METHODOLOGICAL AND ETHICAL RESEARCH ISSUES.
[Application; Knowledge and Understanding]

5. DEMONSTRATE A LEVEL OF COMMUNICATIVE SKILL APPROPRIATE FOR MASTERS LEVEL UTILISING STANDARD NOTATIONAL AND REFERENCING CONVENTIONS.
[Application; Communication]