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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Dissertation (Professional Doctorate)
Reference END001 Version 4
Created August 2021 SCQF Level SCQF 12
Approved December 2010 SCQF Points 420
Amended August 2021 ECTS Points 210

Aims of Module
To enable the student to undertake pure and/or applied research and development at an advanced level, contributing substantially to the development of new techniques, ideas and approaches, by applying their subject knowledge and their knowledge of research methods to an independent investigation of a topic within a relevant field.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Conceptualise, design and implement an approved research project in the chosen subject field.
2 Apply a range of research skills and methods to gather, analyse and critically evaluate literature, theories, data and evidence as appropriate to the agreed research topic in a relevant field.
3 Present and critically evaluate findings and conclusions in a piece of independent research that contributes to and advances the body of knowledge in their chosen specialist area.
4 Develop and apply, at an advanced level, the skills of written communication and presentation required to appropriately address relevant theory and concepts, and/or current debates.

Indicative Module Content
Detailed research proposal on a relevant topic.

Module Delivery
Students are expected to take full responsibility for their own learning, and will receive guidance and support from their Principal Supervisor and others, as appropriate.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 270 270
Non-Contact Hours 3930 3930
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 4200 4200
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4
Description: The assessment will normally consist of a thesis with an oral (or approved alternative) defence of the thesis.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The description below outlines the minimum requirements to pass the module.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
Pass Submission of satisfactory thesis and satisfactory performance in oral examination (or agreed alternative).
Fail Submission of unsatisfactory thesis and or unsatisfactory performance in oral examination (or agreed alternative).
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module 120 credits at SCQF 11 level or equivalent, including completion of the Postgraduate Certificate in Research Methods.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

ADDITIONAL NOTES
In addition, the student will be expected to search the literature and read widely in the area chosen for investigation

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 TURABIAN, K.L., 2013. A manual for writers of research papers, theses, and dissertations: Chicago style for students and researchers. University of Chicago Press.
2 CIALDINI, R.B., 2009. Influence: Science and practice. Boston, MA: Pearson Education.
3 WILLIAMS, J.M. and BIZUP, J., 2014. Lessons in clarity and grace. Pearson.
4 BELCHER, W.L, 2019. Writing your journal article in twelve weeks: A guide to academic publishing success. University of Chicago Press.
5 ATHANASOU, J.A. et al, 2012. Complete your thesis or dissertation successfully: Practical guidelines. Juta.


Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781