1. Independently identify and develop a research question relating to an area of law or legal practice which is suitable for investigation through the use of discipline-specific research methods.


2. Apply discipline specific research skills to address the research question, using a range of appropriate primary and secondary sources.

3.¿ Analyse and evaluate sources in order to construct a cogent and well evidenced argument.


4.Communicate research results clearly and persuasively.

This is a supervised piece of work which allows the student to develop their research skills and undertake a more sustained piece of writing, in an area of law in which they have a particular interest.


The final research project of 3,500 words should be presented in accordance with conventions of legal academic writing.

Directed and detailed guidance on the development of research skills
- Guidance on methods of carrying out a literature review
- Application of those skills in a specialised area of study presented in the form of a written project.
This will consist of research in pursuance of investigating the topic chosen for the project. This may include an area of doctrinal, socio-legal or legal practice.

The methods employed will be discipline specific, focusing on archival, library and textual research.

If you have an interest in a particular area of law and there is not a specific module on the topic, then this could well be the module for you. Flexible enough to cater to a myriad of interests (subject to appropriate supervisor), this module contributes to students’ employability by enhancing their¿problem-solving and research skills. For anyone considering an academic career it could be the first step in a research career. Key employability skills such as self-motivation, accountability, organising workload and meeting deadlines are built in as well as higher level research and writing.¿

The learning strategy for this module will involve a 1 x 2 hour large group session to provide an introduction to the research project module. Students will then have an individual appointment with the module leader to help formulate their research proposal ( 1 hour.) Subsequent appointments will be arranged if necessary.

There will be a number of meetings between the student and the subject specialist who has been allocated to act as their supervisor. It will be the student’s responsibility to arrange these meetings throughout the duration of their research. The module leader and other staff eg library will be available throughout the module to support the students research on request.

There will be no in-depth reading for this module as the reading will depend on the subject which the student is researching. However, it is suggested that all students might like to refer to a general guide about conducting legal research such as Legal Skills by Emily Finch and Stefan Fafinski, latest edition, OUP. Available via Law Trove.

Module Study Guide.

Access to appropriate primary and secondary legal resources relevant to the topic chosen.

Computing facilities will also be needed for access to Westlaw, LexisNexis and Law Trove.