Research ProjectModule Details

Background and Rationale

Students, having thus far gained the appropriate skills, should initiate, and develop, sustain and report a major research project in a selected topic related to Public Administration, in the form of a written dissertation. The module is a chance to show the development of their critical understanding of a range of research paradigms, strategies and methods used for data collection, analysis, reporting and evaluating within research. In addition, they get to demonstrate their skills in problem analysis, objective initiation and data judgement. Students should build on the theoretical, interpersonal and practical skills required to complete the dissertation from initiation to completion.

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course students will be expected to:

1) Identify, collate, interpret and contextualize current literature in a specialized field within Public Administration.
2) Apply Quantitative and Qualitative research paradigms and methods.
3) Critically analyze key issues related to the topic being studied.
4) Generate and complete a pre-planned study through their own efforts and insights.
5) Contextualize the findings of their work both in terms of its place in the field as well as its academic rigor.
6) Apply the advanced knowledge by taking account of the best advice of an advisor, or other Professional Ethical Codes/ Frameworks which are appropriate.