The Dissertation in English Literature 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 English literary studies.

1 x 1hr lecture, 1 x 1hr workshop, as scheduled on MyCampus.

3 x 30min supervision sessions TBA.

ENGLIT4005P English Literature Dissertation (30 credits)

 The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ Annotated bibliography and prospectus (1500 words): 10%  

■ Dissertation (8000 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.  

This course will provide the opportunity for students to:

■ identify an appropriate project in a specific area in English Literary Studies

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

■ develop good academic practice regarding use of sources and references to sources

■ undertake a literature review and construct an appropriate annotated bibliography

■ evaluate and implement the most suitable method and approach for their chosen topic and summarise this succinctly in a research prospectus

■ conduct a sustained research project under individual supervision

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

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

■ identify an area of research and appropriate research methods

■ evaluate a critical field and write succinctly about it in an annotated bibliography

■ use an academic style guide accurately

■ formulate research questions and integrate them within a focused research prospectus

■ write knowledgeably at length and in-depth on a chosen topic using independent critical thinking and analysis

■ mobilize individual research skills, including appropriate and critical use of a range of sources

■ use appropriate IT skills and web resources with confidence

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

■ work effectively as an independent researcher.