Postgraduate Module Descriptor


PHL3040: Philosophy Dissertation

This module descriptor refers to the 2024/5 academic year.

Module Aims

Writing a philosophy dissertation is an opportunity to demonstrate your abilities in the comprehension, analysis, and critique of philosophical texts. It is also an exercise in the communication of your own ideas, your ability to choose and develop a research topic of your own choice and preference, with the help and guidance from members of the academic staff. You will obtain substantial knowledge of the discussions and problems pertaining to your dissertation topic and enhance your analytic and writing skills.

A well conducted and written dissertation is a text that shows your dedication to define and engage in independent research, explore and present philosophical arguments on the basis of good knowledge of core texts relevant to the topic, and complete a large project on time and at a high academic standard.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here - you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.

On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. Demonstrate independent research skills
2. Demonstrate analytic skills
3. Complete a substantial piece of original writing in a timely manner
Discipline-Specific Skills4. Demonstrate knowledge of appropriate literature
5. Develop and demonstrate a high standard of presentational and writing skills
6. Analyse and critique philosophical arguments
Personal and Key Skills7. Choose and define personal, relevant themes and questions
8. Demonstrate graduate level skills of written presentation of philosophical material
9. Demonstrate advanced skills in selecting, digesting and organising material for a purpose
10. Demonstrate the ability to develop coherent and cogent arguments based on own research skills
11. Demonstrate high level of independent work ethic and commitment to a project