The dissertation provides an opportunity for students to carry out a piece of first-hand research on a topic of their own choosing, thereby acquiring a range of widely appropriate and transferable research and organisational skills.

4 seminars of an hour each and private study throughout Level 4 (Sept to March). A supervisor will be appointed and regular supervisions will take place during the year.

ARCH4001P

Research proposal (1,500 words) - 15%

Dissertation (13,000 words) - 85%

Reassessments are normally available for all courses, except those which contribute to the Honours classification. For non Honours courses, students are offered reassessment in all or any of the components of assessment if the satisfactory (threshold) grade for the overall course is not achieved at the first attempt. This is normally grade D3 for undergraduate students and grade C3 for postgraduate students. Exceptionally it may not be possible to offer reassessment of some coursework items, in which case the mark achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade. Any such exceptions for this course are described below. 

This course will provide the opportunity to:

■ develop an understanding of research skills and methodologies within the field of archaeology

■ design, undertake and present a piece of independent archaeological research

■ attain professional standards in the presentation of research materials

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

■ identify the resources and support needed to carry out research on a chosen topic, and formulate a viable plan for its successful completion

■ identify and summarise existing data and scholarship relating to their chosen topic

■ research, compile and analyse relevant data for their chosen topic

■ sustain a coherent and integrated argument throughout the dissertation, using illustrations and tables where appropriate

■ cogently and clearly present the results of their research in an appropriate fashion that reveals close personal engagement with the subject

■ critically assess both the subject area covered and the character of their own contribution to it

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.