Library and web-based learning resources. Laboratories (where appropriate). Statistical analysis (e.g. SPSS, NUDIST), Word processing (e.g.WORD), Spreadsheet software (e.g.EXCEL). Internet and e-mail access

Oral defence of a 30000 word research thesis
Formative assessment will occur through mock oral examination and the preparation of two articles for publication

Cryer P 1996 The research student's guide to success OU Press, Buckingham
Phillips E 1994 How to get a PhD: a handbook for students and their supervisor OU Press, Buckingham
Robinson J 1999 Taking the initiative: supporting nursing research in an acute trust Nurse Researcher 6,4, 41-50

Students are required to have successfully completed the developing a plan of work and pilot study research modules (150 credits) and 210 M and D level taught modules prior to undertaking this module.
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The majority of the learning hours (1700 hours) are apportioned to self-directed activities of the student undertaking the research study. A small amount of learning hours (100 hours) are allocated to attendance at student discussion groups and student-led research supervisory meetings.

This module will be undertaken under the remit of the student's supervisory team and will focus on a practice-based research study. Certain elements of the module may be comparable to undertaking a PhD thesis however, there are some crucial differences. For example, the study will focus on an original research project that is relevant to the student's practice discipline and as such may be clinically, educationally or managerially orientated. The breadth and depth of the study will be generally appropriate to achieving doctorate level outcomes. However, in keeping with a professional doctorate the work should have a particular focus on the way health science theory is applied to practice or examination of the nature of professional practic