Business MSc Dissertation module (BU53006)

This module will give you the independent research and evaluation skills needed to analyse a complex issue or problem in finance. You will define, conduct, and report on a substantial piece of empirical research. 

Your dissertation will be based on either primary or secondary research. It may involve analysing a current issue in your chosen area, or developing a solution to a specific finance problem. 

You will draw on the knowledge and skills gained across your course, bringing them together in the dissertation. 

You will choose your topic, and then plan your research and complete your dissertation with the support and guidance of your supervisor.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• apply business and finance theory to real-world problems faced by policy-makers, financial institutions, managers, and investors
• design a research study, gather primary or secondary data, and analyse and interpret your results
• plan and manage an independent project, and communicate your work clearly in writing and in discussion

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• write a clear, engaging 15,000-word dissertation
• read, understand, and critically evaluate research in leading business journals
• distinguish core arguments from peripheral material, and synthesise evidence from multiple sources to form a coherent conclusion

Assignments / assessment

• Final dissertation, 15,000 words (100%), due in August
• No final exam

Teaching methods / timetable

You will learn through a two-hour introductory session led by the module organiser, followed by one-to-one supervisory meetings during the summer semester.