Course Catalogue

Dissertation In Law LAW4011P

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Law
  • Credits: 40
  • Level: Level 4 (SCQF level 10)
  • Typically Offered: Runs Throughout Semesters 1 and 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

The LL.B. Honours Dissertation in Law course consists of independent research guided by a supervisor with expertise in the student's chosen research topic, in addition to the provision of asynchronous learning and skill development supports. Students are required to submit a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Timetable

No regular time-slot required.

2-3 learning support hours to take place on campus (small groups)

4 lectures

2 check-in sessions with course convenor

Requirements of Entry

This course is only available to LLB students.

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

Coursework consists of the submission of a plan of 250-400 words to the supervisor by Friday of Week 4 of the first semester of the Senior Honours year and the submission of a dissertation of 10,000 words by 2:00 p.m. on Friday of Week 10 of the second semester of the Senior Honours year. There are no examinations.

Course Aims

The aims of the course are to:

■ instruct students in the skill necessary to complete a dissertation including relevant research and writing skills;

■ develop students' skills in legal research, including library and advanced IT skills;

■ develop students' ability to understand and be able to explain complex arguments relating to a chosen area of law and legal issues;

■ develop students' ability to offer a critical commentary on these arguments and their own view of the arguments; and develop students' effective management of time.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ plan and successfully undertake an extended piece of independent research and deliver in time, well presented;

■ present a sustained argument;

■ use library IT resources to an advanced level;

■ understand and explain complex arguments relating to their chosen area of law and legal issues; and

■ offer a critical commentary on these arguments and take a position in relation to them.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions