Students write a 5000-word dissertation based on a philosophical topic studied in either their second year or the Autumn term of their final year.
Important Note: although this is a Spring term module, there are compulsory components in the Autumn term, including attendance at two workshops (weeks 2 and 4) and submission of two assignments (weeks 3 and 9). Failure to submit either assignment will result in discontinuation on the module and enrolment on an alternative Spring module.
Being accepted on PY426: On completion of the Autumn term components, suitability for continuation on PY426 into the Spring term will be assessed on the strength of the 500-word summary and the 1500-word proposal. Decisions will be communicated back to students in Week 11 (end of the Autumn term). Students whose proposals are not approved will be required to choose an alternative Spring-term module to make up the required credits.
Supervision: students will be responsible for contacting potential supervisors and arranging meetings to discuss their proposals. Note: students are not guaranteed a supervisor. If the quality of the proposal is not sufficient, or if the proposed topic is in an area unconnected to anyone's area of expertise, it is unlikely that a supervisor will be found. Once approved to continue into the Spring term, students will receive up to 3 hours of supervision.
This is an independent research module, so students will need to be highly motivated, show initiative, have the capacity to work autonomously, and have excellent time-management.
- Module Supervisor: Daniel Watts