The MSc Dissertation: Tips and Advice

by Samera Iqbal

Pursuing a Master’s Degree is no small feat. While extra-curriculars at the University of Glasgow are particularly enjoyable, it’s important to set aside time to prepare for your dissertation. Having just completed my MSc in International Strategic Marketing, I’m currently publishing my dissertation. In this post, I’m going to share some advice I wish I had known during my dissertation journey.

Before the Dissertation

1. Brainstorm Dissertation Topics

While you don’t need to finalise every detail at this point, it’s important to have a rough idea of your topic. During your first two semesters, identify courses that you enjoy and consult journals your lecturers refer to. While determining your context, really evaluate your interests and long-term goals. Which industry are you interested in joining? How can you use your dissertation to communicate value to your desired organisation?

Your dissertation is your own piece of work, so it should focus on a topic that interests you. Having previously worked in women empowerment and fashion, I incorporated both into my topic. Choose a topic that you’re passionate about!

2. Compile Your Feedback

During taught courses, the grades you receive may differ from your expectations. Luckily at Glasgow Uni, examiners provide extensive feedback. By compiling and consulting your feedback at this stage, you can identify shortcomings and ensure you don’t make similar mistakes during your dissertation.

During Your Dissertation

1. Consult Objectives and Rubrics

When you start your dissertation, it’s easy to get caught up in the research and lose sight of your objectives. To prevent this, compile your programme aims and marking rubric into a checklist. After each chapter, consult this checklist to ensure you’ve adequately addressed each component. To-do lists are your best friend while organising your work - create digital lists or nip out to WHSmith for a physical one for your bedside table.

2. Master Critical Writing

To ace critical writing, question (and reference) *everything*. If scholars make a certain point, read the opposing side of the argument, debate the two and establish the stronger viewpoint. If you’re struggling to find references, circle back to the references listed in the article or consult Google Scholar.

3. Communicate With Your Supervisor

As students we often misunderstand the student-supervisor relationship. While your supervisor is an examiner, they’re there to help. Establish deadlines early on in the process to ensure your timeline pans out smoothly. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t fear being judged for asking questions. Contact your supervisor as soon as you can and remember that your supervisor is a researcher who will appreciate your curiosity and rigour.

4. Care for your wellbeing

It’s easy to get caught up in your research, isolating yourself and neglecting your health. The quality of your work reflects your wellbeing, so prioritise yourself. Plan fun, social activities to reward yourself for completing deliverables. Opt for healthier food options while on the go and make time for physical activity by setting Google Fit reminders. Find out what works for you and craft your routine accordingly.

After the Dissertation

1. Seek Feedback

After receiving your grade, ask your supervisor for feedback. Make the recommended changes, especially if you’re interested in publishing your work, which leads me to my next point…

2. Look Into Publishing

Consult your supervisor about publishing as they will already have contacts. If they’re unable to refer you to a journal or get in touch on your behalf, ask for advice on how best to approach journals you’re interested in.

3. Publicise Your Research

Your dissertation is the product of your efforts and hard work, so it makes sense to publicise it. If you have a public blog, talk about your research there, or write to relevant magazines to raise awareness on your findings. In job interviews, use your research as evidence of hard work and determination, especially when you don’t have extensive work experience.

Conclusively…

While a dissertation differs for each programme, I hope this advice helps prepare you for yours. Most importantly though, enjoy the dissertation process. As a postgraduate student, you’re back in academia because it’s something you enjoy, so make the most of the experience!

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First published: 24 November 2022