Assessment 1 - Dissertation

Weighting: 80%

Assesses all the learning outcomes

For this module, you will complete a 10,000-word dissertation that allows you to undertake a substantial piece of independent research within a specialist area of public health. The dissertation requires you to demonstrate the application of appropriate research methodologies to address a clearly defined research question, drawing on established frameworks, contemporary debates, and relevant theoretical perspectives. You will be expected to critically evaluate the accuracy, limitations and ethical dimensions of the data, methods and findings you generate, showing an advanced capacity for analytical judgement and methodological rigour.

Your dissertation should begin with a well‑reasoned justification for the topic, supported by a critical and coherent review of the existing literature. You will then design and present a methodological approach that is appropriate for the research aims, describing the rationale for your chosen design, sampling strategies, data sources and analytic techniques. As part of this work, you are required to use digital tools and platforms that support research design, data management and analysis, such as reference management systems, advanced software for quantitative or qualitative analysis, and secure data storage environments. These tools should be used purposefully and transparently, with an explanation of how they contribute to the quality and integrity of your research.

The dissertation must also address the ethical responsibilities associated with conducting public health research. This includes demonstrating engagement with ethical approval processes where relevant, and reflecting on issues such as consent, confidentiality, data protection, researcher positionality and the implications of the research for different population groups. Your findings should be presented clearly and with analytic depth, and your discussion and recommendations should consider the implications for practice, policy and further research.

Throughout the dissertation, you will also be expected to reflect critically on the processes involved in planning and conducting the research. This reflection should demonstrate awareness of the challenges, decisions and adaptations made during the research process, and should explore how your skills, confidence and methodological understanding have developed. You should identify areas for future personal and academic development, linking your experience in this project to your broader aspirations within public health research.

Rationale

The dissertation serves as the culminating assessment of the master's programme and enables you to demonstrate the full range of research capabilities expected at Level 7. Through this task, you will show that you can design and execute an independent study using appropriate research methods, critically appraise data and methodological choices, and generate findings that have relevance for public health policy, practice or scholarship. The requirement to use digital tools strengthens your ability to work with contemporary research technologies, while the emphasis on ethical and reflective practice ensures that your work meets professional standards of quality, integrity and accountability.

By completing the dissertation, you will advance your competence in synthesising complex information, forming evidence‑based arguments, and communicating research findings with clarity and academic rigour.

The reflective element further encourages you to understand your own development as a researcher and to identify the skills and knowledge you will need to continue progressing in academic or applied public health research roles. In this way, the dissertation builds both intellectual mastery and professional readiness, preparing you to contribute effectively to evidence‑informed public health practice.

Assessment 2 - Viva Voce

Weighting – 20%

Assesses Learning Outcomes 1 & 4.

You will undertake a viva based upon your dissertation submission, affording you the opportunity to give an overview of your project, answer questions regarding your methodological choices, the implications of your conclusions, and to reflect upon your decision-making process, consider how the project may be improved or built upon in future research to further advance the evidence-base.

Rationale

This viva allows you to demonstrate your understanding of your project, to articulate it in a different way and to allow interrogation of your conclusions in collaboration with academic staff. This type of active reflection is a key skill for future employability.

Research design and methodology
Literature review and evidence synthesis
Research Methodology – Quantitative, Qualitative and Mixed Method approaches
Sampling strategies
Data collection, analysis and interpretation tools and techniques
Use of digital tools in research
Writing for academic and professional audiences
Ethical considerations in research
Dissemination and impact of research findings
Dissertation

1. Investigate a complex public health problem, critically selecting, justifying and applying appropriate methodological approaches to generate coherent and evidence‑informed research solutions.

Programming Learning Outcome: Research Skills, Application & Problem Solving

2. Critically interrogate data, methods and analytical findings, demonstrating advanced judgement in assessing accuracy, validity, limitations and ethical implications.

Programming Learning Outcome: Research Skills

3. Critically select digital research tools and platforms to support rigorous research design, data management, analysis and presentation, demonstrating digital fluency and methodological transparency.

Programming Learning Outcome: Digital Literacy

4. Reflect on the research process, demonstrating insight into methodological decisions, ethical responsibilities, researcher positionality and personal development needs, and articulating strategies for ongoing academic and research‑skills growth.

Programme Learning Outcome: Reflection

5. Critically evaluate your evolving research identity and professional capabilities, demonstrating autonomy, initiative and entrepreneurial thinking in identifying opportunities for growth, innovation and impact within public health research and practice.

Programme Learning Outcome: Personal Development & Entrepreneurship

The dissertation module commences in the first semester of the course to ensure that learners are able to start considering potential topics at an early stage. They will be supported in this through the discussion of research strategies and expectations for this project. This also allows for early discussion with project supervisors to consider appropriate plans and implications for the ethics process. It is expected that these ideas will evolve as the course progresses through semesters one and two, with the bulk of the written work being undertaken in semester three.

Lectures on key concepts will be delivered in-person on campus for both the full time and part-time cohorts while the distance learning cohorts will be delivered online. This will be complemented by online group discussions among the students to explore key issues and their relevance in practice. Interactive sessions and critical appraisal of data and policies would be employed. Students will also engage in independent, self-directed learning activities and drop-in support sessions, where needed, will be provided.

Biggam, J., (2025). Succeeding with Your Master’s Dissertation: A Step by Step Handbook. 6th ed. London: McGraw Hill.

Aveyard, H., Payne, S. and Preston, N., (2021). A Postgraduate’s Guide to Doing a Literature Review in Health and Social Care. 2nd ed. London: Open University Press.

Green, J., Thorogood, N. and Melendez Torres, G.J., (2025). Qualitative Methods for Health Research. 5th ed. London: SAGE Publications Ltd.

Gullion, J.S., (2024). Qualitative Research in Health and Illness. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Adu, P. and Miles, D.A., (2023). Dissertation Research Methods: A Step by Step Guide to Writing Up Your Research in the Social Sciences. London: Routledge.

What if your research could influence health policy, improve lives, and shape the future of public health? This module is the capstone of your Masters, offering an opportunity to lead an original research project addressing a real public health problem. You will design and execute research using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-method approaches, applying advanced skills in sampling, data collection, analysis, and interpretation. From systematic literature reviews to ethical approvals, you will navigate the full research lifecycle, supported by academic supervisors and interactive workshops. Digital tools will enhance your ability to manage data and communicate findings effectively. Culminating in a dissertation, this challenging yet rewarding experience develops critical thinking, resilience, and the ability to produce evidence-based recommendations that inform global health strategies, policy, and practice.