7MG001 The Research Project Assignment Brief 2025/26 - University of Wolverhampton

Academic year / semester

2025/26 – Semester’s 1, 2 and 3

Module code and title

7MG001 – The Research Project

Module Leader

Alistair Sale

Assignment name

Independently researched dissertation

Assignment type

Dissertation (research-based)

Assignment weighting and size

100%, 15,000 +/- 10% excluding references and appendices

Assessment unpacking video location

Assessment Information & Support Topic, on the Assessment Information and Support Page

‘What’s my assignment?’ unpacking date (if applicable)

In-class on a weekly basis, additionally assessment unpacking document in the module section on module Canvas page. Examples of previously completed student work available on Canvas.

Formative submission date (if applicable)

In-class weekly discussions and relevant research-based case studies on potential research scenarios. Discussions relevant to research-based assessment learning outcomes. Completion of a research intent form (week 3) and research proposal (week 11).  

Formative submission method (if applicable)

The submission of a research intent form (300 to 500 words on the initial research topic/idea) by week 3. In week 11 a submission of a research proposal (3,500-word submission containing detailed and comprehensive research plan that will form the basis for the dissertation) and a completed ethics form (this will be attached to the research proposal).

Formative feedback date (if applicable)

Regular, weekly feedback on in-class case study research-based activities. Peer and tutor led discussions on the research intent and research proposal submissions.  

Summative (i.e., final) submission date

Across year’s (September to September; January to January and May to May)

Summative submission method

Uploading a single dissertation submission into the assignment portal on Canvas

Assignment requirements

An independently researched dissertation

You are asked to produce a piece of original work; based on your own independent research, which will consist of a pure academic research approach. For the award of a master’s degree, candidates must present the Independent Report within their specific field of study. It should demonstrate a range of advanced intellectual and practical skills in carrying out an “evidence-based research project” as highlighted in the learning outcomes of the module (See below).

The report must be within a business and management context (linked to a specific subject area) and will, as a minimum, include a clear rationale for the research, reference to and critical evaluation of academic literature from peer reviewed journals, a critique of research methodology, analysis of the data and findings and overall concluding commentary. The research format and content will typically consist of a master’s level research submission (please see below for indicative content). Your supervisor will advise you regarding this and there are some format examples for dissertations in the Canvas materials section, which you are advised to follow.

The word count/content for each section will vary depending upon the research approach and topic studied/researched.  Candidates will receive further guidance from their supervisor as to the specific content/approach.

The dissertation will be 15,000 words in length and should include the normal sections of a dissertation using the following indicative content:

• Research Title
  
  
• Table of Contents
  
  
•  List of Abbreviations
  
  
•  List of tables, figures and illustrations
  
  
• Abstract
  
  
• Introduction (theoretical background/conceptual analysis/research questions)
  
  
• Literature review
  
• Research Methodologies and Methods
  
•  Findings and analysis
  
  
• Conclusions, implications, recommendations and reflections
  
  
• References
  
  
• Appendices

N.B. Candidates will receive further guidance from their supervisor as to the specific content/approach as this may vary depending upon the subject/topic area investigated.

LO1        Evidence of master’s level study/research skills in the planning and design of an academic research project with justifications for the initial research area including background, scope, objectives and specific research questions.

LO2        Critical analysis, evaluation and discussion on literature relevant to a specific research area.

LO3        Demonstrate an advanced level of analytical, numerical and linguistic skills associated with the evaluation of primary and secondary data at master’s level.

LO4        Critically evaluate and apply the core principles of research methodology, philosophy and methods for business management research (empirical or non-empirical).                

LO5        Provide evidence of an advanced level of competence in the design, execution and reporting of an independent research submission to the master’s award.  Evaluate and reflect on learning through the submission of the research-based work. 

Introduction (Theoretical background, Conceptual analysis and Rationale): 15%

Literature review (Critical review of literary sources): 30%                   

Research Methodologies and Methods: 20%                     

Results, Analysis and Discussion: 20%                     

Conclusions, Implications, Recommendations and Reflections: 10%

Presentation, Structure and References: 5%

A good postgraduate research submission possesses several key characteristics that demonstrate the quality, rigor, and significance of the research conducted. Here are some essential qualities that contribute to an excellent postgraduate research submission:

Originality: A strong research submission showcases originality in its approach, ideas, or methodology. It should address a gap in existing knowledge and offer new insights or perspectives to the field of study.

Clear research objectives: A good research submission clearly defines the research objectives and research questions it aims to address. These objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART), guiding the research process effectively.

Methodological soundness: The research submission should demonstrate a robust and appropriate research methodology. This includes clearly outlining the research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques used. The methodology should be reliable, valid, and ethically sound.

Critical analysis: A strong research submission demonstrates critical thinking skills by analysing and interpreting the findings in a thoughtful and objective manner. The author should evaluate the strengths and limitations of their research, address potential biases, and consider alternative explanations.

Academic writing quality: Clarity, coherence, and conciseness are crucial aspects of a well-written research submission. The work should adhere to the appropriate academic writing style, with a logical structure, coherent arguments, and a professional tone. Proper referencing and citation of sources are also essential.

Contribution to knowledge: An outstanding research submission should make a significant contribution to the existing body of knowledge in the field. It should offer new insights, challenge existing theories, or propose innovative approaches that advance the understanding of the research topic.

Data integrity: Research submissions should adhere to rigorous standards of data collection, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and transparency. Clear documentation of data sources, sample selection, and any necessary ethical considerations enhances the credibility of the research.

Results and conclusions: A good research submission presents the findings of the study clearly and concisely, using tables, figures, and graphs where appropriate. The conclusions should be based on the evidence presented and should answer the research questions or objectives effectively.

Potential for further research: A strong research submission often identifies avenues for further research, acknowledging the limitations of the study and suggesting areas that warrant future investigation. This demonstrates the author's understanding of the broader research context and the potential impact of their work.

Overall coherence and organisation: The research submission should exhibit a high level of coherence, with a clear logical flow and organisation of ideas. The introduction, literature review, methodology, results, and conclusion sections should be well-linked, providing a comprehensive and coherent narrative of the research.

In summary, a good postgraduate research submission embodies originality, clarity, methodological rigor, critical analysis, contribution to knowledge, and adherence to academic writing standards. By encompassing these characteristics, a research submission stands a greater chance of making a valuable contribution to the academic community and advancing the field of study.

Reference list and appendices are NOT included in the word count.

Always keep a copy of your work and a file of working papers (planning documentations, completed questionnaires, interview transcripts, evidence of quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods/calculations/analysis etc…) as there may be circumstances where it is difficult to arrive at a mark for your work. If this is the case, you may be asked to submit your file and quite possibly meet with a panel of academics for a viva (oral examination) to answer questions on your submission. 

University’s Academic Regulations

Academic Integrity Policy

Level and Mark Descriptors

Student Support and Wellbeing

Study Guides

Skills for Learning – Introduction to Academic Study Skills

Academic English Language Skills

You should also refer to your Course and Module Guides

The re-sit requirement for this assignment is to provide a rework of the original submission, with additions and amendments highlighted, to indicate where you have applied the feedback received.

The re-sit will take place in the following resit period and the actual date will be available on Canvas approximately 6 weeks after the submission of the first assessment submission.