The dissertation is an independent research project carried out over 8 months which is researched and written under the supervision of a member of academic staff. You will scope the topic area and develop the research question, undertake detailed planning for your research project including finding out about ethical procedures, and submit a project proposal. Following feedback on your proposal, you will then carry out your research project. The module provides a structure for taught and independent study to enable you to explore the theoretical principles, approaches and methods of research in data science. You will also learn how to manage the practicalities of research such as project planning and dealing with ethical committees, and gain experience in writing a proposal. You will write up your work in a reflective and scholarly way and learn how to prepare your work for publication. Most of your individual work will be in conjunction with your supervisor, however the dissertation team also run a number of workshops to develop generic skills and for you to progress your work with additional researchers and with your peers.

At the end of this module you will:


	Know how to undertake an original research project in health data science
	
	
	Be able to explore and contribute to the academic literature on research in one specific area relevant to data science
	
	
	Be able to undertake independent research particularly in relation to:

	
		Critical reviewing the relevant literature
		
		
		Planning and application of one or more appropriate research techniques
		
		
		Managing time and resources to meet a deadline
		
		
		Addressing ethics issues where appropriate
		
		
		Data analysis
		
		
		Evaluation of the results
		
		
		Effective presentation of research findings
		
	
	
	Develop higher level academic skills relevant to the preparation of a proposal and publication
	
	
	Develop project and time management skills
	
You will work on your individual research throughout the year with online and face-to-face support from your dissertation supervisor, the dissertation team, and support from fellow students during group sessions, on the student forum and through personal contact.