Dissertation - HEA00184M

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Module summary

In this module, you will undertake an independent research project. Supported by supervisors, you'll apply the skills and knowledge acquired from taught modules during your programme, focusing on relevant methodology and selecting an area of research pertinent to your studies.

Module will run

Occurrence	Teaching period
A	Semester 2 2025-26

Module aims

• To pursue an independent research project in an area of research relevant to their studies

• To apply the methodologies, skills and knowledge learnt from within the taught modules to a substantive piece of research work.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students will be able to:

1. Critically examine the evidence base for health research and practice, using this analysis to formulate and refine research questions

2. Systematically plan and structure an independent research project.

3. Critically analyse research and review methodologies, selecting and applying approaches most relevant to the chosen topic.

4. Critically appraise, interpret and apply current evidence and literature.

5. Organise, structure and analyse/synthesise research findings, drawing conclusions that add to the existing knowledge base.

6. Communicate complex arguments and ideas in a succinct and scientific manner.

7. Critically evaluate the limitations of their own work and research methodology.

8. Work independently, with the support of supervisors, to complete a substantial piece of research

Module content

The premise of the dissertation process is discussed in the initial induction process, during student supervision, in the student handbook on the student intranet, and on the dissertation VLE module site.

Students can select their own research method in consultation with their supervisors and other members of the academic team. Due to the time available to complete the work, dissertations will typically involve systematic/scoping reviews or secondary data analysis. Students who would like to consider using alternative research methods should discuss this with the module leads and/or supervisory team. More information about the different types of dissertations that could be undertaken is available on the student intranet and the dissertation VLE site.

Indicative assessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	100.0

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task	% of module mark
Essay/coursework	100.0

Module feedback

Written feedback for the summative assessment is provided on the standard proforma, within the timescale specified in the programme handbook.

Indicative reading

Reading list in detailed in the VLE site for this module and the handbook - Completing a masters’ dissertation in the Department of Health Sciences, University of York.