Course Catalogue

Dissertation TRS4086P

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Critical Studies
  • 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 dissertation provides the opportunity to carry out a more sustained piece of independent research and to produce a more developed and lengthier piece of academic writing than previously attempted in undergraduate study. It can be on any aspect of Theology and Religious Studies, but the topic must be agreed with the supervisor.

Timetable

5x1hr individual supervision sessions TBA

Requirements of Entry

Successful completion of Junior Honours Theology and Religious Studies. 

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ Research project description (500 words) - 5%  

■ Annotated bibliography (500 words) - 5%  

■ Dissertation (12,000 words) - 90% 

 

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

■ There are no alternatives to the assessments, but flexible deadlines 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:

■ identify an appropriate project in a specific area which may be related to but must be distinct from other work submitted at Honours;

■ evaluate and implement the most suitable method and approach for the chosen topic;

■ conduct a research project under individual supervision;

■ carry out individual, independent research, using library resources and other research tools;

■ construct and present sustained arguments on a larger-scale specialised topic;

■ develop good academic practice regarding use of and references to primary sources and secondary literature.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

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

■ identify an area of research and appropriate research methods;

■ articulate and evaluate critically a specific question in a discipline within Theology and Religious Studies;

■ plan and produce a substantial, carefully-researched and well-presented dissertation;

■ apply in written form in-depth knowledge and understanding of a chosen topic;

■ apply individual research skills, including appropriate use of sources;

■ show the ability to use IT skills and web resources as appropriate;

■ practise effective independent working;

■ deploy professionally recognised referencing system and reflect upon the critical relevance of sources.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions