Module manager: Dr Kevin Almond
Email: k.almond@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: 1 May to 31 Aug View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
DESN5317M Dissertation: Fashion Enterprise and Society DESN5327M Fashion Research and Contextualisation
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module is the culmination of learning from semester 1 and 2 of the MA Fashion Enterprise and Society programme. Students will use their advanced understanding of the research process, subject knowledge, critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills to complete their major research project. Students will work independently, supported by supervisors, to produce a research output suitable for either an academic or industry context. Example outputs could include a dissertation, journal paper or business proposal.
The objectives of this module are to:
1) Support students in pursuing independent lines of research, relevant to fashion innovation and enterprise.
2) Develop subject-specific expertise, building on the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the programme.
3) Provide an in-depth understanding of the research process, including critical thinking, academic integrity, and ethics.
On completion of this module, students will have provided evidence of being able to:
1. Propose detailed research questions, aims and objectives to inform independent lines of enquiry in fashion innovation and enterprise.
2. Design a robust research methodology which is appropriate to the research questions.
3. Analyse primary and secondary research to inform the development of evidence-based recommendations, solutions, and concepts relevant to fashion.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
4. Evaluate and use appropriate information sources to support the development of an independent research project.
5. Compose a well-structured research project that demonstrates the ability to write clearly and concisely.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 7 | 1 | 7 |
| Lecture | 3 | 1 | 3 |
| Seminar | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| Private study hours | 586 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 14 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 600 | ||
Students will have the opportunity to submit a draft on which they receive written and verbal formative feedback (with the opportunity to voice record). They will also receive formative feedback on their work throughout the module during tutorials.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Written assignment 10,000-13,000 words or equivalent | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Students will have the option to select from a variety of written outputs which may include a business proposal, dissertation or journal paper. The dissertation output will be 10,000 - 13,000 words in length with the other output types requiring a submission equivalent to this wordcount. For example: journal paper – 8,000-10,000 words + 2,000-word supporting document of data/equivalent supporting material Or: business proposal – 6,000-8,000 words + supporting visuals, incl. concept development and illustration of final concept.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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