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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Thesis (Professional Doctorate)
Reference GSD001 Version 1
Created December 2023 SCQF Level SCQF 12
Approved May 2024 SCQF Points 420
Amended ECTS Points 210

Aims of Module
To enable the student to plan, design and execute applied research and development at an advanced level, drawing on theory and practice to develop insight and generate innovative solutions that will make an original contribution to knowledge, or achieve the original application of existing knowledge, to the enhancement of policies and practice of the student's profession.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Generate an approved research project on a practical/work-based issue or problem in a chosen subject field.
2 Critically evaluate relevant literature, theories, data and evidence as appropriate to the agreed research topic.
3 Critically evaluate findings and conclusions in a piece of independent research that contributes to, and advances, the body of knowledge in a chosen specialist area
4 Develop and apply, at an advanced level, the written and oral communication skills required to appropriately address relevant theory and concepts, and/or current debates.
5 Produce creative and practical responses to problems and issues in a chosen specialist area.

Indicative Module Content
A research proposal on a relevant topic, normally developed in GSM010 and GSM011, will form the basis for development of the thesis. Students will work independently to undertake the research and prepare the thesis.

Module Delivery
Students are expected to take full responsibility for their own learning, and will receive guidance and support from their supervisory team, and others as appropriate. It is expected that students will be in contact with their supervisory team on a two-weekly basis and that appropriate feedback will be provided, particularly in relation to data-collection instruments, ethics, relevant literature, and drafts of the dissertation.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours N/A 276
Non-Contact Hours N/A 3924
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL N/A 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, 5
Description: A written thesis.
Component 2
Type: Examination Weighting: 0% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Description: An oral examination of the thesis.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The thesis and oral defence will be assessed in accordance with Regulation A6: Research Degrees.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
Pass Pass
Fail Fail
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module Students are eligible for the doctoral-level thesis if they have successfully completed the Transfer process and achieved 120 credits at SCQF level 11 or equivalent, including GSM010 and GSM011.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 BURNARD,P. et al., 2016. Transformative doctoral research practices for professionals. Rotterdam: Sense Publishing
2 CARTER, S. et al. 2020. Doctoral Writing: Practices, Processes and Pleasures. Singapore: Springer
3 MAXWELL, T. W. 2019. Methodologies for practice research: approaches for professional doctorates. London: SAGE
4 FULTON, J. et al. 2020. The professional doctorate: a practical guide. London: Bloomsbury
5 WALLACE, M. & WRAY, A. 2021. Critical reading and writing for postgraduates. London: SAGE

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