Module manager: Dr Elspeth Mitchell
Email: e.r.mitchell@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
| ARTF3130 | Short Dissertation |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module offers you the opportunity to undertake a substantial piece of independent research on a topic of your own choosing. It allows you to explore an area of in depth, developing your own critical perspective and building on the knowledge and skills gained throughout your degree. Working closely with a supervisor, you will learn how to frame an effective research question, engage critically with relevant scholarship, and manage a long-term project from initial proposal to final submission. Please note that the submission for this Dissertation has a higher word count than the 40-credit Short Dissertation module.
This module enables you to undertake an extended piece of independent research on a topic of your own choosing. It is designed to support you in developing and applying advanced research skills, building on knowledge acquired throughout the programme, and working with increasing autonomy under supervision. By completing the dissertation module, you will learn how to devise an appropriate research question, engage critically with relevant literature, and manage a substantial, long-term project.
On successful completion of the module you will be able to:
1. Analyse relevant debates, materials and contexts, extending beyond those developed in previous modules.
2. Develop well-structured, ethical arguments using evidence, critical analysis and scholarly conventions to support claims
Skills learning environment
On successful completion of the module you will be able to:
3. Manage learning and research processes effectively.
4. Locate, evaluate and use a range of sources and research tools, demonstrating appropriate information-literacy, critical appraisal and academic integrity.
5. Develop a successful communications approach for a sustained piece of writing.
- Independent project planning and development
Time management
- Advanced use of (specialist) libraries, archives, bibliographies and electronic resources
- Presentation of a written work of substantial length which meets academic standards in form and content.
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 6 | 0.5 | 3 |
| Seminar | 4 | 1.5 | 6 |
| Private study hours | 591 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 9 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 600 | ||
Students are required to develop their own topic and conduct independent research, using the reading, analysis and research skills acquired in years One and Two.
At the beginning of the dissertation process, students attend an introductory dissertation workshop. They are provided with a detailed dissertation handbook.
Students can refer back to earlier programme content.
You will receive formative feedback at several key stages of the module. You will produce a substantial draft of a chapter; this draft will be discussed with your supervisor, who will provide verbal feedback. You will also have opportunities to receive verbal feedback on your progress during scheduled supervision meetings. These stages are designed to support your development toward the final dissertation
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Essay or Dissertation | 13,000-15,000 word dissertation excluding footnotes, bibliography and appendices. | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team