Module Directory

This module offers students the opportunity to undertake an extended, independent research project aligned with their academic interests and future career goals. Students may choose to complete a full dissertation, a consultancy report, or a placement-based report, depending on their preferred area of focus.

Building on research methods training received earlier in the programme via the module BE966 Organisational Research and Professional Development, students will identify and formulate a research question, review relevant literature, design and conduct research, and analyse data to develop well-founded conclusions. Through this process, they will gain valuable experience in research, critical thinking, and academic or professional writing. The module emphasises independent study, and encourages students to reflect on their personal and professional development as they apply research methodologies to real-world organisational and human resource management challenges.

The aims of this module are:

• To address organisational or professional contemporary issues in Organisational studies, Organisational behaviour, change management or HRM.


• To provide an academic framework within which that empirical or theoretical work is evaluated.


• To include a discussion of appropriate research methods issues.


• To arrive at a conclusion justified by the empirical and/or theoretical material.


• To contain a clear statement of research questions/organisational issues.


• To show evidence of wide reading from journals and relevant research.


• To demonstrate that the literature review is critically analysed rather than routinely summarised.


• To demonstrate a critical review of the methods used to collect data.


• To show a systematic presentation of the findings that are relevant to the research questions and the organisational imperatives set.


• To demonstrate concise and thoughtful conclusions derived from the evidence presented.


• To contain evidence of personal reflection and critical review of their work.

Regardless of the chosen assessment format, by the end of this module,  students will be expected to be able to :

1. Apply an academic framework within which relevant empirical and theoretical work is evaluated.


2. Critically analyse a wide range of literature systematically gathered.


3. Articulate a clear statement of research based on a contemporary people and/or organisational management issue.


4. Demonstrate rigorous application of knowledge and skills of the chosen research method and data analysis.


5. Assimilate and systematically present research findings that are relevant to the research questions.


6. Identify conclusions justified by the empirical and/or theoretical material.


7. Demonstrate concise and thoughtful conclusions derived from the evidence presented, with timely, value-added recommendations.


8. Conduct research in an ethical and humane manner and assess the impact of the research findings on a range of relevant stakeholders.

Skills for Your Professional Life (Transferable Skills)

In addition, this module will also contribute to your development of the following employability skills:

1. Written Communication.


2. Oral Communication.


3. Research Skills.


4. Critical Thinking.


5. Commercial Awareness.

Students must choose one of the following three assessment formats:

1. Dissertation (10,000 words)
   This is the most academically focused option, suitable for students who wish to explore a topic in depth using established research methods. The dissertation includes the development of a clear research question, a thorough literature review, the collection and analysis of primary or secondary data, and the formation of well-supported academic conclusions. This route is ideal for those considering further academic study or research-focused careers.


2. Placement Report (7,500 words) + Business Presentation (20 minutes)
   Designed for students who have completed a relevant work placement, this option focuses on critically analysing a real-world HR or organisational challenge experienced during the placement. Students apply academic frameworks to their practical experience and communicate findings through both a written report and a 20-minute business-style presentation. This format is ideal for those wishing to reflect on professional experiences and link theory to practice.


3. Consultancy Report (7,500 words) + Presentation (20 minutes)
   This option involves undertaking a research project in response to a practical organisational challenge, either in collaboration with a business or as a simulated consultancy project. Students produce a consultancy report offering evidence-based recommendations, supported by a 20-minute presentation that communicates key findings and practical implications in a professional format. This route suits students seeking to build consultancy skills or pursue advisory roles.

This module will be delivered via:

• Workshops.
• Student led independent research.
• Students are encouraged to develop peer-learning groups to support the development of research skills and their projects.
• Students will also be appointed an academic supervisor.

Supervisory Meetings

Students can expect a minimum of four meetings with their supervisor. Students are expected to prepare sufficient material for discussion during supervisory meetings, and ideally to submit it to their supervisor in advance. Make sure you leave each meeting with a clear idea of what to do next. Students are encouraged to meet as a group outside of the formal supervisory meetings. Membership of such peer groups has proven very useful in past years; providing benefits and resources beyond that of developing the applied project.