This option enables the student to study some philosophical topic of his or her choosing, and to engage in an individual research project under the guidance of a supervisor, resulting in an extended piece of philosophical writing. Single Honours students must write a dissertation in philosophy. Joint Honours students write a dissertation in philosophy if and only if they do not write a dissertation in their other subject.

Four hours of tutorial supervision at times to be arranged.

None

The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ A dissertation of 5000-8000 words (100%). 

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 dissertation, 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 aims to give the student the opportunity to pursue an individual research project in philosophy, under the guidance of a supervisor.

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

· identify a research topic which is viable within the constraints of time and length, and with adequate philosophical content;
· plan time effectively in order to meet the deadline for submission of the dissertation;
· independently use the library and other research sources effectively;
· present a well-organised final product that meets the highest scholarly standards of presentation, citation, referencing and editing;
· pursue the research independently;
· master a substantial amount of the existing philosophical literature on the topic;
· make a genuine contribution to the issue, whether by means of clarification, critical commentary or original argument.