76040 Research Thesis¹

The subject comprises the research and writing of a supervised thesis on an approved topic in law. It provides an opportunity for students to further develop and refine their legal research and writing skills as well as explore and analyse a topic in law of their own choosing at a high level to produce a high quality piece of academic work.

Successful completion of this subject is a necessary requirement in order to qualify for the award of the Bachelor of Laws degree with Honours.

On successful completion of the subject, students should be able to:

• present a sustained thesis or argument supported by critically evaluated evidence
• demonstrate insight and originality in their research and writing
• demonstrate a high level of understanding of their chosen topic
• think critically, analytically and reflectively
• research an area of law to find interesting and relevant (including up-to-date) materials drawn from both primary and secondary sources
• think, research and write independently
• engage in high-level analysis and critical evaluation of issues and materials
• develop reasoned, coherent, persuasive arguments, and
• progress logically to a conclusion, and demonstrate excellent academic method.

Students must satisfy certain eligibility requirements and obtain the approval of the subject coordinator to undertake this subject. The eligibility requirements are set out in the subject outline. Applications to undertake a research thesis should be made in November for the following Autumn semester and in June for the following Spring semester. Further details about the application procedure may be obtained from the Law Information Office. Students are also encouraged to attend the information session run by the subject coordinator in the semester prior undertaking the research thesis. Experience shows that most students need to commence research for their research thesis prior to the commencement of this semester.

Depending on the nature of their research thesis, students may also need to obtain ethics approval at the faculty level. For further details, contact a member of the Faculty's Ethics Committee or the Director of Research.

Assessment: The research thesis must comply with certain requirements and these are set out in the subject outline for the relevant semester.

A recommended component of the research thesis is attendance at the research thesis workshop. This is normally held prior to the commencement of the semester in which the student intends to undertake the research thesis.

Students should consult the Honours regulations in Undergraduate course information.

Footnote(s)

1. Formerly Research Project 4.