What will I learn on this module?
This module consists of a 15,000 word dissertation leading to the award of MA in English Literature
The dissertation provides the students with the opportunity to produce an extended piece of research on a topic of their own choosing related to English literature. Students will operate at a higher level of independent learning and research than in the taught modules, albeit with the support of a supervisor who has specialist knowledge in the student’s chosen area of interest. The Dissertation is the final part of the MA, and is the culmination of the programme in terms of length, the degree of specialization in subject, complexity of argument and depth of research.
Work on the dissertation is supported and enhanced by assessments on the other MA modules, particularly the Research Methods module.
During the supervisory sessions students will be encouraged to:
• Tackle problems
• Outline plans
• Submit timely drafts
• Balance research and writing
• Think critically about the specific problems raised by research
• Apply appropriate methodological and theoretical approaches to underpin students’ their research
• Demonstrate acuity in selecting approaches, methods, concepts and theories.
How will I learn on this module?
If you choose to study on campus delivery will be primarily via one to one supervision with your tutor on campus. If you choose to study by distance learning you can complete the module via a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), populated with on-line learning materials, and through scheduled email and e-meetings with your supervisor. Whether you are on-site or distance learning you will have access to the same materials. You will be primarily expected to undertake independent learning through reading and investigation into your chosen subject, and revision/preparation of dissertation chapters for discussion with your tutor.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Supervision will support learning and help direct student research, and will be supplemented by email and written feedback on drafts. Onsite students will keep a written record of the supervisory meeting and email one copy to the supervisor, and retaining one for themselves being provided to support students’ learning. Offsite students will maintain a record through email conversations with their tutors. Feedback from your supervisor will enable you to monitor your ongoing academic progress; will help you to develop self-reflection skills necessary for continuous academic development; and direct you to further available services which can help you with you academic skills.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Plan a sustained piece of literary research on their chosen topic and to communicate that plan in written form.
2. Interpret and analyse texts in a sophisticated and complex way and maintain coherent arguments based on a sustained piece of original research;
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. You will demonstrate an ability to work independently on a sustained piece of research.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
4. Produce literary research which conforms to high standards of scholarly practice and presentation.
How will I be assessed?
Formative (practice) assessment
Draft chapters submitted to supervisor on a regular basis will enable you to reflect on the progress of the finished piece.
Summative (graded) Assessments
15,000 word dissertation
The dissertation is intended to demonstrate a high-level of independence in research, problem-solving, writing and presentation
MLOs 1-4.
Pre-requisite(s)
none
Co-requisite(s)
none
Module abstract
Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.
Course info
Credits 60
Level of Study Postgraduate
Mode of Study 1 year Full Time (Distance Learning)
3 other options available
Department Humanities
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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