Module: Dissertation

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Dissertation
Module Code	BAA1072 (ITS: MT5801)
Faculty	DCU Business School	School	DCU Business School
NFQ level	9	Credit Rating	30

Description

Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the processes involved in researching, planning, and executing a Masters-level dissertation in the area of Emergency Management
2. Consider a variety of methodological options and apply the most appropriate approach to emergency management and for the topic being researched
3. Demonstrate independent and critical thinking and analysis by synthesising the diversity of knowledge, understanding, and skills developed in the taught elements of the emergency management programme
4. Plan and produce a substantial and coherent piece of individual academic research with a persuasive and coherent argument that responds to the research question
5. Write a dissertation that fully adheres to the highest research ethical standards of Dublin City University and Business School

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Lecture	56	Lectures covering methodology, data collection, data analysis
Tutorial	16	Data analysis
Fieldwork	666	Conducting Research & Drafting Dissertation
Total Workload: 738

Section Breakdown
CRN	11114	Part of Term	Semester 1, 2 & 3
Coursework	100%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	N
Resit Category	RC2	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Gavin Brown	Module Teacher	Caroline Mcmullan

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Thesis	n/a	100%	As required

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Content
The dissertation should reflect a sound grasp of the theoretical principles affecting an area of emergency management and include an awareness of research by leading academics who have contributed to the present state of knowledge and of their real-world application.

The topic of the dissertation will typically relate to the application of these theoretical principles to an analysis of emergency management related issues in the student's work or industry environment. It should demonstrate a sound understanding of concepts and techniques gained from the programme course work. The student should show a capacity for original thought and for logical argument, as well as analytical and problem-solving skills and an ability to report conclusions clearly. The dissertation should not normally exceed 20,000 words.

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Phillips, B.D.: 2014, Qualitative Disaster Research (Understanding Qualitative Research), Oxford University Press, 0199796173
Thomas, G.: 2013, How to Do Your Research Project: A Guide for Students, 2nd, Sage, 1446258874
Stallings, R.A.: 2003, Methods of Disaster Research, Xlibris, 1401079709
Bryman, A.: 2015, Social research methods, 5th, Oxford University Press, 0199689458
Saunders, M., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A.: 2019, Research methods for business students, 8th, Pearson education, 1292208783

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None