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Dissertation (80 credits) - ARC00135M

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  • Department: Archaeology
  • Credit value: 80 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25
    • See module specification for other years: 2023-24
  • Notes: This is an independent study module

Module summary

The Independent Study Module (ISM) (often referred to as the dissertation) comprises the production of a piece of independent research with academic guidance particularly for students on an MA programme. The dissertation will synthesise and critically assess a range of primary and secondary archaeological evidence.

The dissertation is a substantial piece of written work produced to professional standards, including appropriate graphical and text presentation skills. The preparation for the dissertation is supported by a range of lectures/workshops and resources that will review and discuss the skills required to successfully complete the dissertation.

Related modules

This module will run over Semester 2, and Summer Semester Part A and Summer Semester Part B.

This dissertation format is only available to students studying on MA programmes listed above.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2024-25 to Summer Semester 2024-25

Module aims

The purpose of the dissertation is to allow students to undertake a substantial piece of independent research on a subject of their own choosing. The dissertation will allow them to apply research and study skills acquired during their taught modules and to work with the guidance of one or more members of academic staff.

Module learning outcomes

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

  • demonstrate a specialist knowledge and understanding of their chosen subject
  • execute a programme of research, working independently
  • synthesise and critically evaluate a range of primary and secondary evidence
  • structure a substantial piece of written work
  • present a written dissertation to professional standards, including appropriate graphical and text presentation skills
  • manage their time effectively and complete a substantial piece of independent work to a deadline

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Graduate/Postgraduate Dissertation 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Graduate/Postgraduate Dissertation 100

Module feedback

Formative: oral feedback from module leaders

Summative: written feedback within the University's turnaround policy

Indicative reading

Academic Writing Dissertations: https://subjectguides.york.ac.uk/academic-writing/dissertations

Academic Writing Subject Guide: https://subjectguides.york.ac.uk/academic-writing


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.