Application Deadline 3rd October 2025
Module 8
The dissertation unit is the largest module, in terms of credit value within the LLM, and is designed to enable students to conduct a professional master's level research project. The final project will entail independent study, and the use of appropriate research techniques to demonstrate the understanding of the subject matter, along with the ability to critically relate the learning from the programme to the observed evidence gathered.
By completing this module, students are expected to:
- Critically examine a diverse range of research methods and techniques appropriate to social and legal research
- Demonstrate evidence-based decision-making, in utilising appropriate analytical methods in the context of legal research
- Demonstrate an ability to critically gather, evaluate and synthesise relevant information for a research project
- Construct a professional dissertation, appropriate to the field
By completing this module, students are expected to cover the indicative content as follows:
1. Independent study - exercise of appropriate research techniques and use of source materials
2. Critical evaluation of particular approaches or techniques, or a limited piece of original or empirical research
3. Build on the foundation provided by the former credits
4. May involve either fuller development of subject matter and techniques encountered in the taught programme or the exploration of new ideas and techniques appropriate to the overall programme of study
5. Relate concepts and principles to empirical evidence