In this module, students will apply the theoretical knowledge and research skills they have acquired throughout the MSc in Organisational Psychology to design, conduct and report on an independent research project. This will allow students to explore a specific topic within the field of Organisational Psychology, contributing to the academic discourse and providing practical insights into the discipline. Under the supervision of a PhD-qualified academic advisor, students will critically engage with current literature, select and apply appropriate research methodologies (qualitative and/or quantitative) and analyse their findings. The module will guide students through the process of developing research questions, conducting data collection and analysis and discussing the implications of their findings within the broader academic and professional context. Emphasis will be placed on academic rigor, ethical considerations and the development of a well-structured, coherent dissertation. Students are expected to work autonomously while integrating feedback from their supervisor and adhering to relevant ethical frameworks. The final dissertation should reflect a high standard of scholarship and contribute to the understanding of issues related to organisational behaviour, workplace dynamics or other relevant areas of Organisational Psychology.

Module Aim

The aim of the module is to introduce students to the intellectual and scholarly requirements of producing and providing a dissertation on an extended piece of original research in the field of organisational psychology.

Module Learning Outcomes 

Upon completion of this module, the student should be able to: 
1.    Identify a suitable area and/or issue for investigation, which has professional relevance.
2.    Analyse, and critically reflect on, an issue relating to the focus area of research.
3.    Formulate a research approach that gives realistic recommendations and/or implementation strategies appropriate to the context.
4.    Conduct and manage a project based on a defined approach and defined timelines.
5.    Analyse the findings in relation to specific aims, objectives and criteria for assessment.
6.    Evaluate research findings.
7.    Produce a substantive written report in the form of a dissertation.
8.    Demonstrate effective use of qualitative and/or quantitative research methods in the collection and analysis of data, ensuring ethical considerations are fully addressed.
9.    Demonstrate critical self-evaluation and reflection throughout the research process, identifying areas for personal and professional development.