Dissertation in Accounting and Finance

The dissertation is the final culminating piece of work for the MSc Accounting and Finance. It is based on an original piece of research undertaken by the student on a topic relevant to the aims and objectives of the MSc Accounting and Finance programme. The dissertation project brings together theory and application of qualititaive and/or quantitative research methodology in a small-scale research project. The project may focus on critical literature review, market-based accounting research, the determinants and consequences of corporate governance, financial markets, corporate actions and reporting, and fintech.

Students are allocated a dissertation supervisor in Term 2 and will normally receive three substantive supervision meetings. The role of the supervisor is to assist the student in refining the topic of research, approve the plan of work, advise on sources and help the student with problems which may arise during the course of research and writing.

Objectives and learning outcomes of the module

Upon successful completion of this module a student will be able to:

• Demonstrate a command of appropriate theoretical perspectives, secondary literature and, where appropriate, primary resources relevant to the chosen topic of research;
• Display the ability to frame research questions, consider an appropriate research design and explain relevant methodological and ethical issues relating to a proposed research project;
• Employ the skills to pursue independent research from secondary and, where appropriate, primary resources in the field of accounting and finance;
• Show ability to organise their data and articulate their arguments coherently and clearly;
• Show ability to analyse research findings and write a critical discussion of those findings.

Method of assessment

Dissertation (10,000 words)

Suggested reading

N/A

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