Course Catalogue

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The dissertation allows students to apply their understanding of research methods gained on the course 'Research Skills for Managers' to investigate a HRM/HRD problem, issue or challenge which they have identified. It allows them to critically select, evaluate and apply theories, concepts and ideas introduced during the programme to their research problem, and to assess the relevance of these to their research context. It allows them to review and synthesise existing literature on their chosen topic and identify research gaps. It supports them in analysing data and other evidence and drawing conclusions and making supported claims. The dissertation is an independent, in-depth and research informed piece of writing which aims to further develop students' knowledge and expertise and hone their research skills in their chosen area of HRM or HRD.

The dissertation is typically carried out through the summer months, between May and August. It is supported via regular collective and individual supervisory meetings, which are normally five in total. A preparatory session will be delivered by the dissertation coordinator towards the end of Semester 2 to explain aims and learning objectives, supervisory arrangements and key deadlines.

Students need to meet the requirements for progression to the dissertation based on the taught courses of the programme as detailed in the Code of Assessment.

None

Dissertation between 10,000 and 12,500 words (excluding the cover page, abstract, table of contents, references, and appendices if any).

The aims of the dissertation are:

1. To produce an independently conducted, extended piece of research into an HRM/HRD topic of the student's choice.

2. To apply the knowledge acquired during the taught elements of the MSc by selecting relevant theories and concepts for a particular HRM or HRD problem, issue or challenge.

3. To examine a particular HRM/HRD problem, issue or challenge in-depth, with evidence of an ability to undertake sustained critical analysis.

4. To develop and apply research skills to a significant HRM/HRD problem, issue or challenge.

5. To support students to develop their independent working skills in order to plan, research and produce an important piece of written work which makes a contribution to the field of HRM/HRD.

On completion of the dissertation students will be able to:

1. Critically assess key concepts, theories and contemporary issues identified in the degree programme as applied to a specific HRM/HRD issue

2.  Evaluate types and sources of information to answer research questions relating to an HRM or HRD issue

3.  Apply problem solving skills by identifying gaps in the current literature, and taking an organised and structured approach to addressing such gaps through drawing on data

4.  Critically evaluate and apply relevant research methods and techniques in order to investigate specific work-based issues

5.  Plan, organise, conduct and present a distinctive and substantial piece of scholarship addressing a clearly identified HRM or HRD issue or challenge.

6. Demonstrate the feasibility and relevance of the research to an identified client or other external stakeholder through designing and costing a custom proposal

7. Critically evaluate the research process through reflecting on knowledge and skills gained, with implications for continuing professional development and future practice

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