Studying at York
Politics Dissertation - POL00016H
Module summary
The Dissertation is an extended piece of writing (up to a maximum of 8,000 words) that allows students to develop their capacity for independent academic research. It is a compulsory module completed by single subject Politics, IR, and Politics and IR students, as well as students from various joint degrees programmes, during their final year. The dissertation programme consists of a schedule of lectures, workshops, and meetings with your Dissertation Supervisor. This programme will assist you with the develop, research, and writing of your dissertation.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Semester 1 2024-25 to Semester 2 2024-25 |
Module aims
To develop the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct independent research and to present the results in a cogent and convincing manner. Depending on the topic, students will have the opportunity to develop and apply quantitative, qualitative, or political theory research techniques. Building of the foundation of knowledge-specific skills and analytical skills learnt during stage 1 and stage 2, the dissertation will promote the development of independent research, critical thinking, writing and project management skills. It will provide an excellent foundation for post-graduate study and professional activities involving communication skills, analysis and reports and presentations.
Module learning outcomes
On completing the module a student will be able to:
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Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the origins, evolution and contemporary dynamics of politics and its international dimensions through engaging with a specialist area of study
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Apply theories, concepts and methods to an aspect of politics and/or international relations, using critical reasoning and (where appropriate) empirical testing to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.
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Carry out an independent piece of research in which they explain the use of theories and concepts; select and apply appropriate tools for gathering and interpreting data; and justify conclusions.
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Address a problem in politics and/or international relations, by working towards solutions through the creative application of specialist theoretical and practical perspectives, and/or analysis of empirical data.
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Communicate arguments effectively and to present advanced ideas from specialist areas of study.
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Take a reflective and critical approach, which demonstrates intercultural awareness, and shows appreciation of differing visions of the public good in light of the values of tolerance, inclusivity and sustainability.
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Apply perspectives from Politics and International Relations in dealing with local, national and global challenges.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Module feedback
Students will receive written timely feedback on their formative assessment. They will also have the opportunity to discuss their feedback during the module tutor’s feedback and guidance hours.
Students will receive written feedback on their summative assessment no later than 25 working days; and the module tutor will hold a specific session to discuss feedback, which students can also opt to attend. They will also have the opportunity to discuss their feedback during the module tutor’s regular feedback and guidance hours.
Indicative reading
David Boucher and Paul Kelly (2003) Political Thinkers: From Socrates to the Present.
Clark, T. et al. (2019) How To Do Your Social Research Project or Dissertation. Oxford University Press.
Imai, K. (2018) Quantitative Social Science: An Introduction (2018).
Rubin, A (2021) Rocking Qualitative Research. Stanford University Press.