Course description
Course modules
A negotiated and flexible programme, equivalent to 180 credits, comprising taught elements and research project, designed to aid the development of the candidate as an independent research scientist. The programme will comprise:
Taught modules occupying a maximum of 25% of the total time:
-Induction and Programme of Training in Transferable and Generic Research Skills (equivalent to 20 credits).
-Taught modules from existing courses, relevant to the field of study.
-to increase the breadth of scientific knowledge (equivalent to 20 credits).
- A programme of research seminars, spread throughout the year.
An independently supervised research project occupying at least 75% of the total time (equivalent to 140 credits).
Teaching and assessment methods
Assessment
Candidates will be required to keep a written record of all training taken, which must be presented at the oral examination.
At commencement of their studies candidates will be assigned a Review Panel of two, normally comprising the departmental postgraduate tutor plus one member of academic staff or senior independent research fellow, in addition to the supervisor. This panel will monitor progress of the candidate, and prepare a report to be presented to the Examiners at the oral examination, based on the following exercises;
-A research project proposal, maximum of 1000 words, to be submitted within one month of commencement, which will form the basis of a discussion about the project.
-A research progress report, to be submitted by the end of month seven and not exceeding 1500 words, which will form the basis of a discussion about the project.
-A research seminar, given to the department before the end of month nine, which will be assessed for content and presentation.
-An extended essay of 3000 to 4000 words on a subject covered by the taught module, to be marked by a panel member or another appropriate member of the academic staff.
A dissertation of not less than 10,000 words and not exceeding 15,000 words (excluding tabulated data, diagrams and reference list) on the research project, to be submitted within one calendar year of commencement of studies.
Candidates will be required to undergo an oral examination with External and Internal Examiners, to assess both the research dissertation and the taught elements.
Qualifications awarded
The examiners may recommend that a candidate shall pass, or shall fail, or shall be referred with a view to resubmission and/or re-examination as appropriate. The examiners may recommend the award of the degree with distinction in cases of exceptional merit.
Candidates who accumulate 180 credits, satisfactorily complete the assessment requirements for each of the modules, and submit a satisfactory research project will be awarded the degree of Master of Science.
