MAL7501-E MSc Dissertation Module Handbook 2024-25 | UoB

MAL7501-E Module Aims and Outcomes

To provide you with knowledge/skills to:

1. Carry out a project that investigates in depth a management issue, based on knowledge/experience gained in the taught modules;

2. Critically evaluate and synthesise relevant ideas, approaches, theories, and models of management, and gain an appreciation of practical issues faced by managers; 

3. Use project management skills, from scoping to delivery;

4. utilise literature relating to your topic to develop appropriate questions and evidence-based answers.

Module Learning Outcomes (LOs)

• a. Define a focused research topic and specify research objectives and questions; b. Demonstrate an understanding of Research methods and the appropriate use of different research methodologies; c). Develop a research framework.
• a. Demonstrate skills in both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis techniques; b. Write a research proposal.
• a. demonstrate a breadth of knowledge in management; b. have deepened your knowledge and understanding of a particular topic in management; c. understand how to undertake original research in the chosen area of management; d. Demonstrate practical application of knowledge of the effectiveness of the various topics covered in the taught courses.
• a. recognise and formulate innovative or revised approaches to business and management practice; b. formulate strategies for successful research; c. demonstrate research, analysis, and synthesis in an area of management; d. Propose a well-justified implementation of ideas which meet prevailing ethical and organisational demands; have developed skills for using tested information and investigating a specific methodology chosen for your work.
• a. skills of inquiry, logical reasoning, and analysis in addressing a specific issue; b. organisational skills to manage large, complex tasks; c. independent project Management skills - time management, scope definition, prioritising and scheduling, meeting deadlines; d. quantitative and qualitative idea de nition and development; e. communication skills through having expressed your ideas and arguments clearly and unambiguously.

Module Organisation of Work and Topics

The module reading list is a great place to start your reading on the topic. You can access it here. You can also nd your reading list on your Canvas site or our reading list database, Talis Aspire.

The outline syllabus gives you an indication of which topics you will study. This information may be subject to change, so please keep a record of any module announcements regarding changes from your Module Tutor, from Canvas, or by electronic communication.

Introduction/Orientation to the Dissertation Choice of Topic Area/Contribution of your Research Literature Search
Literature Review: Conceptualisation, Models, Research Alignment & Design
Research Methodology (I) - Qualitative Methods Research Methodology (II) - Quantitative Methods Analysis – Qualitative Methods
Analysis – Quantitative Methods Research Proposal/Ethics Dissertation & Your Employability 
Dissertation Writing & Major Concerns

Module Topics

Research methods and areas of management literature on the chosen topic.

Learning and teaching on this Module

This is the final element of the Master's degree, and students determine the specific subject area in management that they want to focus on for their dissertation/project; as such, it furthers students' knowledge and skills in the subject areas that are chosen by the students. Lectures and seminars relating to research methods and skills are provided, including workshops to all students at the Faculty level as well as on the City campus.

The LTA strategy is designed to achieve independent learning and advanced knowledge and skills that are unique to each student of their aspiration. The trainings are provided by lectures and practical work, both individual and group. This addresses Learning Outcomes 1 to 5. A supervisor is allocated to each student who will mentor the students throughout the process of developing and completing their dissertation/project, supporting the independent study and learning of the student. As the project develops, students will gain both summative and formative feedback from a member of the academic staff/supervisor on their research proposal. Further formative feedback is provided while developing the research until completion of the dissertation.

Students are required to submit a research proposal of up to 3000 words, for which they will receive formative feedback.

The dissertation should contain a maximum of 12,000 words, including literature review, methodology, data description, analysis, results and conclusion, but excluding references and appendices. The dissertation will also include the original research proposal as an appendix.

Scheduled Module Learning (hours)

This module carries hours of study, usually distributed as follows. These may be subject to change in exceptional circumstances due to internal resources or external demands. You will be notified of any changes.

Lectures - 12
Tutorials - 12 Directed Study - 576

Module Assessments

Summative: Dissertation or Project Report (weighting 100%) Dissertation (12000 words)

Formative: Coursework - Written (weighting N/A) Research proposal (3000 words)

Assessment Brief Information

Research proposal: 21 May 2025
Dissertation: 3 Sept 2025 
Online submission via Canvas.
A marking rubric highlighting the assessment criteria will be provided. Assessment feedback will be provided via Canvas in line with the School policy.

Additional assignment brie ng information to help and support you with your assessment for this module will be provided by your module tutor.