Module overview
This module serves as a comprehensive accounting research project for students in the Accounting Department. The Final year Accounting Research Project provides you with the opportunity to conduct a significant piece of independent research work on a topic of your choice, culminating in the preparation of a 7,000-word project describing your work. You could investigate an accounting problem (academic paper), a practical business financial problem suggested by an external organisation or by your supervisor, prepare a sustainability report for an SME of your (your supervisor’s) choice, or a taxation project (Application and Professional Advanced Taxation Skills).
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Demonstrate commercial acumen and apply knowledge of the key areas of accounting;
- Identify, collect and analyse appropriate data;
- Critically evaluate the chosen techniques and methodologies, highlighting reliability, validity and limitations;
- Critically assess the accounting paper, sustainability report or taxation case studies.
- Justify the selection of a chosen topic;
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Current research related to the chosen topic.
- The selected field of study in accounting, finance sustainability and taxation;
- Research paradigms, research approaches, research strategies and research methods appropriate to the chosen topic;
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Collect and critically evaluate qualitative and quantitative information;
- Use library and other resources effectively, and apply bibliographical skills.
- Communicate written ideas and arguments;
Syllabus
There is no set pattern of study; you proceed at your own pace with support from your supervisor. However, it is anticipated that the following topics will feature:
• Selecting and developing your topic;
• Research questions, aims and objectives;
• Research paradigms and consequent research strategies and methodologies;
• Identifying, collecting, evaluating and analysing primary and/or secondary data;
• Linking research outcomes to current theory and practice;
• Effective communication documents.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include:
• Private study
• Guided study and research activity as advised by personal supervisor
• Practical experience
• Personal reflection
However, other teaching and learning activities may be undertaken by some students depending on their particular project.
Learning activities include:
• Private study guided by the unit handbook
• Guided study and research activity as advised by personal supervisor
• Practical experience
• Personal reflection
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Independent Study | 284 |
| Project supervision | 6 |
| Lecture | 10 |
| Total study time | 300 |
Assessment
Assessment strategy
The assessment strategy will include two pieces of summative assessment and some formative assessments during supporting research sessions.Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Dissertation proposal | 20% |
| Research project | 80% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Research project | 100% |
Repeat
An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Research project | 100% |