What will I learn on this module?
The module provides the opportunity to apply the concepts studied in the MMath degree to a problem with mathematical or real world application interest and do analytical and/or numerical exploration of this problem using mathematical techniques and models.
Outline Syllabus
This module will allow you to engender a spirit of enquiry into a practical or theoretical dissertation. The aim of this module is to provide the opportunity for students to work independently, under supervision of the project supervisor, on a project topic, research the background, develop the appropriate methodology, construct the model and apply to appropriate data (if necessary) to verify and evaluate the model performance. The project can be a theoretical or laboratory-based exercise. The module will include an aspect of research and critical appraisal; development of practical skills and/or discussion of results; and an opportunity to compose a written dissertation. The module will be assessed by viva and dissertation bringing out the key aspects of the project. The dissertation would vary with subject area but would typically be within the range 50 to 70 pages. At the beginning of the academic year, the module will include taught sessions on research methodology and professional practice, providing guidance to complete a project plan prior to starting the project. The supervisor will guide the student through techniques and methods used in academic and professional research in mathematics, exploring philosophies underpinning research, stages of research and research approaches, discovery of new facts, testing and verifying hypotheses, analysing events, processes or phenomena, identifying cause and effect relationships, developing new scientific tools, concepts and theories to solve and understand scientific dilemmas, organising resources and bibliographies.
Assessment of the module is written dissertation and oral Viva examination (70% and 30% respectively). Students will receive feedback on their Viva first; this will enable students to act on the feedback received. Feedback for the Dissertation will be given at the end of the second semester.
How will I learn on this module?
You will implement and evaluate a research project. The project areas, titles and summaries will be proposed by the supervisors and made available to students by the Module Tutor.
At the end of the module you will be able to:
1) Conduct a focused literature search of library and web-based materials and critically appraise and analyse the findings.
2) Integrate and/or modify ideas, concepts and theoretical models that have been selectively extracted from scholarly literature.
3) Critically appraise and test the applicability of theoretical models to their researchable topic.
4) Rationalise and defend the key aspects of the work undertaken in the form of a presentation using Microsoft PowerPoint or similar.
5) Write an original dissertation in an academically acceptable format, which should be theoretically and methodologically linked, paying particular attention to the integration of the literature review, the methodology and the clear and concise presentation of results and conclusions.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
You will be supported in the pursuit of individually based research projects. The supervisors will monitor, evaluate and reflect on the research process, concluding with the production of a dissertation and an oral presentation of the major outcomes of the research. You will work with the academic institution (and with an industrial organisation if appropriate) and have regular tutorials with the main academic supervisor.
You will receive regular (weekly) feedback on your project progress, from the supervisor (industrial clients if appropriate).
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. Integrate and/or modify ideas, concepts and theoretical models and techniques that have been selectively extracted from scholarly literature (KU1, KU2).
2. Critically appraise and test the applicability of theoretical models to their researchable topic (KU3).
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
3. Conduct a focused literature search of library and web-based materials and critically appraise and analyse the findings (IPSA2).
4. Write an original dissertation in an academically acceptable format, which should be theoretically and methodologically linked, paying particular attention to the integration of the literature review, the methodology and the clear and concise presentation of results and conclusions (IPSA3).
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Increases proficiency and independence in exploiting rigorous mathematical techniques to study mathematical, physical and engineering problems, as well as problems from economics and life sciences (PVA1).
How will I be assessed?
SUMMATIVE
Students will be assessed by two formal assessments (30% and 70%, respectively).
1. Viva Examination (30%) - 1, 3, 5
Duration: 20 minutes presentation + 10 minutes discussion/questions
2. Written Project (70%) - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
wordcount: max 20000 words + tables + graphs + pictures + codes + references
FORMATIVE
Individual Project Supervision weekly sessions - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Formative feedback will be provided during individual supervision sessions.
Pre-requisite(s)
None
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
The student will carry out a research-based investigation in an appropriate area pertinent to their degree under staff supervision. Students will be encouraged to develop initiative and the capability to work independently, and to develop the capacity for critical thought and judgement. This project module will enhance the individual student's ability to communicate effectively the objectives, analysis and conclusions of technical work. Upon completion of the module, the student will have gained experience in defining clearly a mathematical and/or statistical problem to be solved, selecting methodologies and managing resources appropriate to investigating the problem, knowledge assimilation, effecting a solution and drawing conclusions. They will show the ability to critically appraise both their own work and the work of others in the field.
This module is designed to enhance a student's graduate skills that are essential to their future careers.
Course info
UCAS Code G101
Credits 60
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 4 years Full Time or 5 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Mathematics, Physics and Electrical Engineering
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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