Module: Dissertation

Module Specifications

Academic Year 2026 - 2027

Module Title	Dissertation
Module Code	HUM1026
Faculty	Humanities & Social Sciences	School	SALIS
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	10

Description

HUM1026 Dissertation is a 6,000-word independent research project (10 credits) enabling students to critically investigate topics in Translation Studies, Applied Linguistics, Intercultural Communication, Literary & Cultural studies, Multilingualism, demonstrating analytical depth, scholarly rigour, and academic writing competence

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify relevant sources of literature on topics pertaining to Translation Studies, Applied Linguistics, Intercultural Communication, Literary & Cultural studies, Multilingualism.
2. Apply citing and referencing guidelines.
3. Use a range of bibliographical resources.
4. Develop a critical understanding of a sub-domain within Translation Studies, Applied Linguistics, Intercultural Communication, Literary & Cultural studies, Multilingualism.
5. Communicate effectively in written format, using an appropriate academic register in English.
6. Develop critical thinking skills (analyse and assess the credibility of ideas, arguments and information; ask appropriate questions and gather appropriate information in relation to a given topic; draw informed and logical conclusions from the information; present ideas, arguments and information in a clear and coherent manner).
7. Analyse and assess the credibility of ideas, arguments and information.
8. Ask appropriate questions in relation to a given topic.
9. Gather relevant information relating to a topic.
10. Draw informed and logical conclusions from information.
11. Present ideas, arguments and information in a coherent and clear manner.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Directed learning	24	Lectures / workshops facilitated by subject specialist librarian / meetings with supervisor / completion of on-line LETS course.
Independent learning	226	Preparation of Dissertation.
Total Workload: 250

Section Breakdown
CRN	12165	Part of Term	Semester 1 & 2
Coursework	100%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	N
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Maria Loftus	Module Teacher

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Extended Essay / Dissertation	6000 word essay.	100%	n/a

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

Module Content and Assessment
Indicative content includes dissertation purpose, topic selection, proposal design, literature review, structure, Harvard referencing, supervision, and assessment criteria. Learning activities involve drafting research questions and keywords, developing a timeline and indicative bibliography, engaging with library training (LETS), attending supervision meetings, and participating in feedback clinics to refine structure and argumentation.

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Creswell, J.W. and Creswell, J.D.: 2018, Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches., 5th., Los Angeles: SAGE.,
Dörnyei, Z.: 2007, Research Methods in Applied Linguistics: Quantitative, Qualitative and Mixed Methodologies., Oxford: Oxford University Press.,
Ellis, R.: 2015, Understanding Second Language Acquisition., 2nd., Oxford: Oxford University Press.,

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None

New version of ALTS dissertation module for 2026/2027 academic year, incorporating applied linguistics etc along with translation.