Aims

• To negotiate issues of methodology, research design, ethics and data analysis and apply these to research on a topic of the student's choice.
• To develop a systematic and critical awareness of complex concepts congruent to the study of criminology and social policy.
• To work independently and with some originality.
• To produce a coherent and logically argued piece of writing that demonstrates competence in critical analysis.

Learning Outcomes

After completing the module the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an ability to undertake original and autonomous research on a topic of their choice incorporating advanced knowledge and skills around research methodology, method, ethics and secondary data analysis.
2. Display an ability to engage in critical discussion and analysis of complex concepts.
3. Demonstrate the capacity to work autonomously and to manage a research project in an effective and timely manner.
4. Communicate effectively the findings of their research study, informed by wide current understandings in the subject.