Course Catalogue

Dissertation in Music MUSIC4071P

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Culture and Creative Arts
  • 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

This course allows you the opportunity to study an independent piece of research involving music or musical texts. The topic can be in any area of the subject where suitable supervision can be provided.

Timetable

7 x 1 hour lectures as scheduled on MyCampus

4 Hours of project supervision

Requirements of Entry

Successful completion of Junior Honours in BMus/MA Music.

Excluded Courses

Music General Paper (MUSIC4076P)

Applied Dissertation GMAC (FTV4112P)

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are:

■ Dissertation (10,000 words) - 80%

■ Research Log (2000 words) - 20%

 

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:

■ There is no alternative to the dissertation, but a flexible deadline can be offered as reasonable adjustment (students should follow the usual process for extensions).

■ There is no alternative to the research log, but a flexible deadline can be offered as reasonable adjustment (students should follow the usual process for extensions).

 

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.

Main Assessment In: April/May

Course Aims

This course will provide the opportunity to:

■ experience planning, researching, and writing a dissertation (or edition) on a musical topic / text of their choosing with individual supervision.

■ foster the time-management skills required to balance the practical, presentational and intellectual challenges posed by a dissertation / edition of this size.

■ develop research, critical analysis and writing skills.

■ identify, evaluate the suitability of, and critically evaluate both primary and secondary sources used in the research.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

■ identify appropriate research questions or texts for a substantial piece of writing.

■ evaluate a well-developed and detailed understanding of their chosen subject or text.

■ identify and critically engage with relevant and up to date literature around the subject.

■ identify and address any ethical issues in the research project.

■ select and appraise appropriate methods for research and/or analysis.

■ identify limitations within the project, and show its relationship to current knowledge.

■ present the research in a cogent manner.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions