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THMN49960: Dissertation

It is possible that changes to modules or programmes might need to be made during the academic year, in response to the impact of Covid-19 and/or any further changes in public health advice.

Type Open
Level 4
Credits 30
Availability Available in 2024/2025
Module Cap None.
Location Durham
Department Theology, Ministry and Mission

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combinations of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • to produce a sustained piece of theological reflection on a topic related to mission and ministry.

Content

  • The subject of the dissertation must be the subject of a written proposal and be formally agreed by the Course Director of the appropriate institution and the Board of Studies for the institution.
  • The subject of the dissertation should be related to the interface between the theological tradition and the practice of Christian mission and ministry.
  • In general, the dissertation should:
  • be relatively narrow in scope, aiming at depth of analysis rather than breadth of coverage;
  • have a clearly defined methodology;
  • be clear, well-written, and orderly in arrangement;
  • present the results of a well-organised investigation;
  • show a thorough knowledge of major primary sources;
  • show an awareness of secular as well as Christian reflection and analysis of the subject
  • show the capacity to evaluate the secondary sources
  • A separate Handbook is provided on the practicalities of formulating a dissertation proposal and also for rulings about the relationship between the dissertation and other elements of the course.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

  • Proficiency and expertise in the chosen area of the dissertation.

Subject-specific Skills:

Key Skills:

  • to develop the skills of research, study and reflection required in a sustained piece of work.
  • The integration of different elements of learning which form part of the MA.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • A course taught over two days on key skills in research, IT and presentation skills.
  • Normally four supervision sessions with a supervisor appointed by the Course Director.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotalMonitored
 

Summative Assessment

Component: DissertationComponent Weighting: 100%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Dissertation15000 words100 

Formative Assessment

Feedback to students will comprise comments on draft proposals from the course directors and individual supervision from the supervisor appointed for the dissertation.

More information

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