EH497      One Unit
Research Dissertation B: Implementation, Analysis and Contribution

This information is for the 2025/26 session.

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The dissertation must draw upon the research training provided through the core courses for the MSc (Research) and the generic courses taken by the student, and present the results of an original enquiry into a carefully defined problem. Students are expected to show an ability to draw on relevant social scientific concepts, an understanding of the advanced literature in one or more areas of economic history, and of the nature of historical explanation and analysis. Where appropriate, students are also expected to show the ability to use relevant quantitative techniques for data collection and analysis. The dissertation is intended as preparation for a research degree. Students expecting to continue on the MPhil/PhD programme within the Department may write their MSc dissertation on a different topic from that on which they plan to research at MPhil/PhD level.

Starting in the first term, students will receive advice on choosing a topic and how to tackle it, both from the Department and, individually, from their supervisors. There will be several taught sessions in Autumn Term for all students on the programme in addition to meetings with supervisors during the course of the year.

Students are expected to complete a sequence of preparatory stages during the year. (1) The title must be approved by the student's supervisor; (2) an outline of the Essay must be submitted in Winter Term (3) a presentation at a dissertation workshop; (4) a one-page project summary and an extended draft by the end of the Spring Term. Supervisors will not normally provide comments on drafts submitted after that date.

Dissertation (100%, 15000 words)

The final dissertation, is equivalent to two full modules (EH496 and EH497). The dissertation will be marked on the formulation of the dissertation topic, its historical and historiographical context (including critical literature survey), its creativity and originality, and overall presentation. In addition, student’s will be assessed on research design and discussion of methods, their collection and evaluation of primary and secondary sources, and the quality of analysis of evidence and interpretation. The dissertation should not exceed 15,000 words, excluding tables, references and bibliography. Presentation must be in accordance with appropriate academic conventions as laid down in the MSc Handbook. Work that fails to meet appropriate academic standards of presentation, including English language, will be subject to a maximum deduction of 15% from the first percentage mark. Marks will be deducted for late submission in accordance with the guidelines laid down in the MSc student handbook.