What will I learn on this module?
This module will offer you the opportunity to complete a large scale independent research project (10,000 words) on an English Language or Linguistics topic of your choice. You will learn how to plan, manage and organise a large scale research project; how to identify suitable research questions and methods; how to apply these methods appropriately to primary and/or secondary materials; and how to structure and write a sustained academic argument, following academic conventions appropriate to the discipline.
In designing and implementing your research project, you will draw on skills and knowledge developed during the programme. The dissertation will allow you to work independently, drawing on the advice and guidance of a designated supervisor.
Students will develop abilities that are highly valued by employers. These include the abilities to think and work systematically and independently, to interpret data and arguments, and to communicate coherently verbally and in writing.
Throughout your dissertation project, you will therefore draw upon, and, in your final submission demonstrate, key transferable skills which are essential for employment in the contemporary world, ranging from intellectual, to organisational, to communication skills.
How will I learn on this module?
The dissertation is an individual project in which you are expected to plan, manage and carry out your own research independently. You will be assigned a dissertation supervisor, whose role is to meet with you individually, discuss your research and offer you guidance on the research process.
Dissertation lectures will inform you about specific issues relating to the dissertation. These will include a research ethics briefing session. We will also offer dissertation workshops, in which students meet their dissertation tutor in small groups to discuss progress and particular issues arising at various points during the module. These sessions will give you an opportunity to ask questions, to discuss your dissertation with academic staff and other students, and to receive informal formative feedback on your progress.
Your supervisor will provide written formative feedback on an outline dissertation plan at the end of semester one, and written formative feedback on a sample of draft work totalling not more than 3500 words during semester two. You will therefore learn as a result of your own independent study, and by drawing on formative feedback from your dissertation supervisor.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Academic support on this module will come primarily from your interactions with your supervisor during individual meetings and dissertation workshop sessions. Dissertation lectures will provide briefings on key issues, such as research ethics.
The eLP will host information about the research process, in particular research ethics. Detailed assessment criteria will be provided for the dissertation, and sample dissertations will be made available to students via the eLP.
Links to dissertation guides and skills sessions will be provided, but there are no set readings for this module.
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. Demonstrate knowledge of a specialised area of linguistics
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the research process and research methodologies: identify appropriate research questions; apply appropriate research methodologies to address specific research questions
3. Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate the research of others (by engaging with research literature) and your own research
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
4. Present research through an extended written argument, following appropriate academic conventions (for example written style, presentation, referencing)
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Demonstrate good academic practice in the conduct of primary and secondary research: demonstrate awareness of ethical issues in relation to your research and ensure that research is compliant with university ethics policies and procedures.
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment:
Your supervisor will provide informal formative feedback on your progress during supervision meetings. The number and maximum duration of supervisions is specified in the module guide. (MLO 2,5)
1000 word outline plan (interim report) at the end of semester one. Written feedback will be provided. (MLO 1,2,3,5)
Supervisor provides written comments on 3500 words of draft work during semester two. (MLO 1,2,3,5)
Summative assessment:
10,000 word dissertation. Detailed written feedback will be provided using the dissertation feedback form. (MLO 1,2,3,4, 5)
All dissertations will be blind double marked by two internal examiners. Both examiners will provide written comments. The examiners will agree the final mark that the student will receive.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.
Course info
UCAS Code Q390
Credits 40
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
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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