Department of Criminology and Sociological Studies. Student Handbook for. MA Diversity, Culture and Identity

Transcription

1 Department of Criminology and Sociological Studies Student Handbook for MA Diversity, Culture and Identity MSc Applied Social Research (Social Policy) MSc Applied Social Research (Sociology and Anthropology) This handbook is available on request in alternative formats from the Department.

2 Contents Page 1. Introduction 3 2. Departmental Staff and Communication 4 3. Facilities for Postgraduate Students 6 4. Teaching Programme and Course Structure 8 MA Diversity, Culture and Identity 8 MSc Applied Social Research (Social Policy) 11 MSc Applied Social Research (Sociology and Anthropology) Personal Development Planning (PDP) and Progress Files Module Assessment, Deadlines and Exam Regulations MA/MSc Dissertations Referencing Guidelines 25 Annex 1: Department Staff and their Interests 30 Appendix 2: General University and Programme Regulations 38 2

3 1. Introduction First of all, welcome to the Department of Criminology and Sociological Studies at the University of Hull! We hope that your year with us two years, in the case of part-time students will be an enjoyable as well as intellectually rewarding experience. We hope that you will soon feel at home in Hull and will make many new friends at the same time as you are developing your knowledge and professional skills in the field of applied social research. This handbook brings together between two covers most of the basic information you will need to find your way around the course and the Department of Criminology and Sociological Studies (CASS). This handbook forms part of a two-tier structure of handbook information available to you as a student of the University. While this handbook gives you information of immediate concern relating to the department and your programme of study, it also provides you with sections identifying University policies and procedures that are directly relevant to you, and with which you must familiarise yourself. In addition, the University produces a second handbook that is available on-line. This provides information covering University regulations, policies and procedures including the full text version of each regulation, policy or procedure and information about University facilities and services. It also contains more detailed information about your rights and responsibilities as a student, and information about the structure of the University. The online handbook can be accessed at: It is your responsibility to familiarise yourself with the contents of this handbook, and make sure that you use it as the first source of information and guidance on matters relating to your programme and status as a student. You will not be permitted to rely on ignorance of regulations, policies or procedures contained in this handbook as a ground for mitigation, special treatment or appeal. At the beginning of each course component (module) you will be given a full lecture/seminar outline with a reading list, discussion and essay topics, and a clear indication of what is expected by way of examination or assessment for that module. This handbook provides general explanations and is not a substitute for this detailed course material. Matters detailed in this handbook are subject to review and change during the year. Every effort is made to ensure that the information is accurate and up-todate at the time of publishing, but the University cannot accept any liability for any errors or omissions. 3

4 2. Departmental Staff and Communication Drawing on the strengths of a multidisciplinary social science setting, the Department of Criminology and Sociological Studies, formerly Comparative and Applied Social Sciences, offers a distinctive profile of postgraduate opportunities in anthropology, criminology, social policy and sociology. With an emphasis on major contemporary issues, we have strong international links and a thriving research culture. Staff and research students are currently involved in research in every region/continent across the world. The Department, which is based within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, is home to several of the University s interdisciplinary research centres and networks including the Centre for the Study of Comparative Change and Development, the Centre for the Study of Social Justice, the Centre for Criminology and Criminal Justice, the Centre for the Social Study of Childhood and the Hull Theory Network. Staff and students are also active in centres located in other departments, including the Centre for Gender Studies and the Centre for Regional Business Studies. Details of staff, contact details, research areas and interests are listed in Annexe 1. However, apart from your supervisors, the key members of staff concerned with taught PG students in the department are as follows: Prof. Peter Young - Head of Department (Room 216 Wilberforce Building, extn 5787, P.Young@hull.ac.uk) Prof. Young has overall responsibility for research and teaching, and he chairs the departmental board, the primary decision making body of the department that includes representatives from both taught and research post-graduates (see below). Dr. Mark Johnson - Director of Postgraduate Studies and Course Director for the MSc/PG Diploma in Applied Social Research (Sociology and Anthropology). (Wilberforce Building Rm 227, extn 6086, j.m.johnson@hull.ac.uk) Dr. Majella Kilkey - Course Director for the MSc/PG Diploma in Applied Social Research (Social Policy) and the MA Diversity, Culture and Identity. (Wilberforce Building Rm Room 202, extn 6083, m.m.kilkey@hull.ac.uk) Judy Savage - Departmental Administrator in charge of Postgraduate Studies. (Wilberforce Building Rm 215, extn 5779 or 6215) If you have any questions or queries regarding any aspect of your course, you should, in the first instance, either contact the respective course director if it is an academic matter or the departmental administrator if your query relates to an administrative question. If your course director or the departmental administrator is unable to resolve the matter, they will direct you to either Dr. Mark Johnson, Departmental Director of Post-Graduate Studies or to the Head of Department, Prof. Peter Young. Additionally, you will be assigned a personal supervisor, to provide any help or advice on course-related matters. The allocation of supervisors is in accordance with the Guidelines for Personal Supervisors - the full version of the Guidelines 4

5 can be accessed at Matters -Help & Advice. This of course does not preclude your discussing any aspect of your studies with any other member of staff, or raising matters with the Director of Studies or Head of Department. Indeed, we encourage as much formal and informal staff-student contact as possible within mutually agreed limits of time and inclination! For any more personal matter that you prefer not to discuss with your supervisor or other teaching staff, the University provides a confidential counseling service, located on the third floor of University House (Students Union building, Tel ). The Student Welfare office of the Union is another valuable source of advice, including help on financial matters. Students from overseas are invited to seek the help of the University s Adviser to Overseas Students at the International Office in the administration building (Tel ). Staff at the University Careers Service, located on the third floor of University House, will be pleased to discuss employment or further educational opportunities arising from the course. For ease of communication later in the year, please ensure that the Departmental office has your latest address on the Student Record System, plus your telephone number if any (if you move, don t forget to change the address on record!). Students are able to change their details on the portal - Personal Information. Routine internal mail, as well as any letters arriving for you at the University address, will normally be placed in the alphabetical mail rack in the corridor outside the office. Notices about module arrangements, seminars, conferences and job opportunities are placed on the postgraduate notice board in the same corridor. Do check this regularly, as any changes to the timetable or invitations to events (academic or social) will be posted there. The easiest way to contact a member of staff who does not respond to a knock on his or her door is to leave a note in the pigeon hole outside. It is preferable to note the staff office hours on their door. Please bear in mind that when we are not in our offices, this does not necessarily mean we are unavailable to talk to you. Especially during the summer period, many of us work at home but may be able to make an appointment to meet you. Student Feedback and Suggestions As a postgraduate student, you have several ways of making suggestions and providing feedback on your course of study. 1. Directly, through your supervisor or the director of studies. 2. Through the post-graduate representatives who are chosen at the beginning of each year and who represent the views of post-graduates at both the departmental board and post-graduate studies committee. 3. On individual modules you may take as part of your research training, where you will be given opportunity to provide written feedback on the module through a questionnaire (module feedback form) administered at the end of each module. 5

6 3. Facilities for Postgraduate Students The Library Library induction packs for postgraduate students (Blue Packs) are available at the reception desk of the Brynmor Jones Library. To enter the library you will need the student s card issued to you at registration. Information about the computer centre, BJL, Health and Scarborough campus libraries are also available in the on-line handbook advice and support academic support. Use of the University libraries is governed at all times by regulations which are supported by the University s code of discipline, and therefore a breach of the regulations is punishable under the code. However, the main purpose of the regulations is to ensure that the library facilities can be used to the maximum benefit for all students. The full text of the Library Regulations should be accessed in the on-line handbook at Rights and Obligations Library and Computing Regulations. Computer Facilities and Services We expect that all MSc/PG Diploma students will prepare their essays and dissertations on a computer. If you are not already computer literate, you should seriously consider signing up for one of the introductory courses run by staff in the Computer Centre the first month of the session. There are limited numbers of places on these courses, and they will fill up very quickly; so please find your way to the Computer Centre as soon as you can and reserve your place with the receptionist! Once you have learned the basic principles of logging on to the University computer network and getting into a programme, you are entitled to use the machines in the Computer Centre. There are also computers and working space in the Library, the Wilberforce building and in the 24 hour work room. All registered students are permitted to use the University s computing facilities provided that they observe the University s regulations and relevant legislation (such as the Computer Misuse Act 1990). The regulations are also supported by the General Acceptable Use Guidelines. You should note that the University takes very seriously any misuse of computing facilities. Disciplinary action could result in you being required to leave the University. The full text of the Regulations Governing the Use of Computer Facilities and Services can be accessed in the on-line handbook at Rights and Obligations Library and Computing Regulations. Language Centre The Language Centre runs a course in English for Academic Purposes which continues throughout the academic year. This is specially designed for those whose English is good enough for every-day communication but not quite up to the standard required for success in an undergraduate or postgraduate degree. They are free to full-time students from outside the European Union (EU), but you need to register as soon as possible after the start of the term. The Centre is in the Larkin Building (the modern red-brick block that houses the Arts departments). 6

7 Support Services Within the University there are a range of support services which have been developed to assist you in overcoming academic or personal difficulties. These include the Students' Union Advice Centre, Study Advice Centre, Careers and Appointments Service, and the Counselling Service. For further details go the online handbook -Advice & Support. Financial Support for Students Limited help is available for students who experience financial difficulty. International students are required to possess sufficient funds both to pay their tuition fees and for day to day living and study before they enter the UK. Home students may be eligible to apply to the HEFCE Hardship Fund if they can demonstrate that taking their income and legitimate expenditure over the academic year as a whole they have a deficit. Further information is available at -Mone~ Matters, plus a copy of the guidelines and application form. Additional support is available for particular categories of students, such as those with child care commitments. If you are experiencing financial difficulties you are encouraged to seek guidance and support from the Students ' Union Advice Centre. 7

8 4. Teaching Programme and Course Structure The following pages outlines the overall aims and objectives and course structure for each of the respective degree programmes. MA Diversity, Culture and Identity Course Director: Dr. Majella Kilkey The MA Diversity, Culture and Identity capitalises on strengths in sociology, anthropology and social policy and combines them in a distinctive way. The MA is interdisciplinary and focuses on issues of cultural difference (gender, sexuality, race, postcoloniality, disability) power, policy and social justice. While many of these are key themes in MA programmes in Cultural Politics or Identity Politics elsewhere, this MA is distinctive insofar as it brings theoretical perspectives to bear directly on social policy issues. As such, it provides both essential intellectual skills for students interested in more vocational training and a rigorous programme of study for more theoretically oriented students who wish to have an applied element in their studies. As a whole, the programme aims to develop students knowledge and understanding of: 1. The key theoretical debates surrounding issues of cultural differences and inequalities in local and global (post-national) contexts. 2. The main political movements reflected in, and fostered by these debates. 3. The ways in which these debates come to bear on issues of social policy and provision. 4. The ways in which social policy and provision shapes cultural differences and inequalities. 5. How social scientists investigate the social world and makes choices about different methods of research. 6. The main sources of data derived from social surveys and other systematic collections, and an in-depth critical grasp of the methods used to collect and analyse such data. 7. How to critically evaluate the outcomes of social policy interventions. Course Structure - Full Time Students An overview of the MA Diversity, Culture and Identity is provided in tabular form below. The first two semester periods are for teaching and assessment of core and topic-track modules, while the third semester is devoted to the dissertation (details in section 7 below). During each semester period, full time students must successfully complete 60 credits towards the 180 credit total (for details on part-time study see below). The taught component of the course is structured around a coherent programme of core modules comprising two-thirds (80 out of 120) of the taught element, together with optional modules comprising one-third of the taught element (40 out of 120 credits). The core modules are comprised of a 40 credit module, Key Issues in Identity Politics and Policies, together with 40 credits of research training modules. The optional modules (outlined below) are drawn from a range of modules taught both within and out-with CASS each of which closely fits with the overall aims and objectives of the course. 8

9 A separate booklet (the CASS postgraduate module handbook) outlining all the modules available for CASS students at post-graduate level provides more information on all core and optional modules. The module handbook is The course director will provide general guidance on appropriate optional topic track modules. However, you may also wish to discuss possible options with the relevant lecturers and ask for a module outline. You will need to be alert to the possibility of timetable clashes and be aware that the list provided in the PG module handbook is only provisional. It is your responsibility to confirm availability and timetabling with the appropriate departments and module conveners. Please note that most modules begin in week two. Unless and until you feel fully informed on the content of the different options, you should not enter your choices on your Registration Form but either leave the relevant codes blank or delay registering until you have reached a decision. Your final choice should be agreed with Dr Majella Kilkey who will initial your registration form. If you wish to change your option at a later stage, you must consult Dr. Kilkey and then inform the secretary in the Departmental office Core Modules (80 credits over Semesters 1 & 2) For further details of these modules please consult the CASS PG module handbook. Semester 1 Semester 2 (40) Key Issues in Identity Politics and Policies (module runs across both semesters) Choose 2 of the following (10) Philosophical Issues in Applied Social Research Choose 2 of the following (10) Central Issues in Applied Social Research (10) The Research Interview (10) Qualitative Data Analysis (10) Survey Questionnaire Design (10) Quantitative Data Analysis* (10) Ethnographic Practice (10) Computing with SPSS* *these two modules must be taken concurrently Optional Modules (you must select 40 credits over semesters 1 & 2) For further details and a complete list of optional modules available in CASS please consult the PG module handbook. (10) Crime, Deviance and Social (10) Crime, Deviance and Social Control I Control II (10) Disability Policy, Identity and (10) Disability Policy, Identity and Society II Society I (10) Youth in Society I (10) Youth in Society II (20) Comparative Social Policy (20) Community, Conflict and Social Policy (20) Feminism, Politics and Power (20) Gender Bodies, Gendered Selves (20) Encountering Development: Why (20) Current Issues in Gender and Gender Matters (10) Any one of the research training modules listed above not taken as part of the core. Semester 3 Dissertation (60 credits completed over the summer period) Total Credits Completed for Degree = 180 Development (10) Any one of the research training modules listed above not taken as part of the core. 9

10 Course Structure for Part-time Students The master s programme was designed for both part-time and full-time students. The design elements can be seen both in the timetable and the timing of modules. Part-time students complete all the compulsory parts of the course in year one. Subject to successful completion of the core modules, students can begin initial dissertation research in semester 3. In year 2, they complete the optional modules (with lectures and seminars scheduled so far as possible to ensure they only need be absent for work for one morning or afternoon a week) completing their dissertation in Semester 6. Year 1 - Part Time Students Core Modules (80 credits over Semesters 1 & 2) For further details of these modules please consult the CASS PG module handbook. Semester 1 Semester 2 (40) Key Issues in Identity Politics and Policies (module runs across both semesters) Choose 2 of the following (10) Philosophical Issues in Applied Social Research Choose 2 of the following (10) Central Issues in Applied Social Research (10) The Research Interview (10) Qualitative Data Analysis (10) Survey Questionnaire Design (10) Quantitative Data Analysis* (10) Ethnographic Practice (10) Computing with SPSS* *these two modules must be taken concurrently Semester 3 Begin Dissertation Research Total Credits Completed in Year 1 = 80 Year 2 - Part Time Students Semester 4 Semester 5 Options (see list above under full time) 20 Option (see list above under full time) 20 Semester 6 Complete Dissertation Research (60 credits) Total Credits Completed in Year 2 = 100 Total Credits for Degree = 180 Dissertation Upon successful completion of 120 credits of course work, all students must complete a modest piece of supervised research, which is undertaken during the Summer Period (sometimes known as "Semester 3"). Further details on the dissertation are found in section 7 below. 10

11 MSc Applied Social Research (Social Policy) CourseDirector: Dr. Majella Kilkey The MSc/PG Diploma in Applied Social Research (Social Policy) is built around an integrated social science training programme. The programme is designed to help meet the anticipated shortage of well-trained social researchers with particular attention to the concerns of Social Policy. It is intended both as a terminal qualification and as first-year training for those proceeding to PhD research at Hull or elsewhere. As a whole, the programme aims to develop in students: 1) a general understanding of the research process in the social sciences, 2) an awareness of the diversity of research styles, approaches or strategies, 3) an ability to rigorously formulate sociological and social policy related questions and develop a critical and reflexive methodological approach to address those questions, 4) more specific and practice-based knowledge of a number of quantitative and qualitative research techniques, and an ability to evaluate their appropriateness to particular research settings and objectives, 5) an appreciation of the linkages between empirical research and theoretical and substantive issues in social policy, with particular reference to their main field of interest, and 6) an ability to complete successful applied research and to effectively and critically use their data and analysis to contribute both to social science knowledge and to applications of that knowledge within and outside academia. Course Structure for Full Time Students An overview of the MSc/PG Diploma is provided in tabular form below. The first two semester periods are for teaching and assessment of core and topic-track modules, while the third semester is devoted to the dissertation (details in section 7 below). During each semester period, full time students must successfully complete 60 credits towards the 180 credit total (for details on part-time study see below). The taught component of the course is structured around a coherent programme of 8 core modules (50 credits in Semester 1 & 30 credits in semester 2) comprising two-thirds (80 out of 120) of the taught element, together with substantive Topic Track modules comprising one-third of the taught element (40 out of 120 credits). The teaching and learning in the core modules are organized in such a way so that there is a logical progression from semester 1 to semester 2, from the abstract questions of Philosophical Issues to the more concrete concerns of Central Issues and from specific research methodologies and forms of data collection to their corresponding analytical issues and techniques. Optional Modules Alongside the core research training modules, you will choose two substantive and/or theoretical topic track modules drawn from a range of post-graduate options in social policy and sociology according to your own particular area(s) of interest. A booklet outlining modules for CASS post-graduates is The course director will provide general guidance on appropriate optional topic track modules. However, you may also wish to discuss possible options with the 11

12 relevant lecturers and ask for a module outline. There are normally no restrictions on the choice of options you may take, so long as they are deemed to have sufficient policy related content and are approved by the course director. However, you will need to be alert to the possibility of timetable clashes and be aware that the list provided in the PG module handbook is only provisional. It is your responsibility to confirm availability and timetabling with the appropriate departments and module conveners. Please note that most modules begin in week two. Unless and until you feel fully informed on the content of the different options, you should not enter your choices on your Registration Form but either leave the relevant codes blank or delay registering until you have reached a decision. Your final choice should be agreed with Dr Majella Kilkey who will initial your registration form. If you wish to change your option at a later stage, you must consult Dr. Kilkey and then inform the secretary in the Departmental office. Core Modules (80 credits over Semesters 1 & 2) For further details of these modules please consult the CASS PG module handbook. Semester 1 Semester 2 (you must select 3 of the following) (10) Philosophical Issues in Applied Social Research (10) Central Issues in Applied Social Research (10) The research interview (10) Qualitative Data Analysis (10) Survey Questionnaire Design (10) Quantitative Data Analysis* (20) Comparative Social Policy (10) Computing with SPSS* *these two modules must be taken concurrently Topic Track Options * (you must select 40 credits over semesters 1 & 2) For further details and a complete list of optional modules available in CASS please consult the PG module handbook. (20) Key Issues in Identity Politics and Policies (20) Key Issues in Identity Politics and Policies I II (10) Crime, Deviance and Social (10) Crime, Deviance and Social Control I Control II (10) Disability Policy, Identity and (10) Disability Policy, Identity and Society II Society I (10) Youth in Society I (10) Youth in Society II (20) Encountering Development: Why (20) Community, Conflict and Social Gender Matters Policy (10) Ethnographic Practice (20) Current Issues in Gender and Development (10) Any one of the research training modules listed above not taken as part of the core. Semester 3 Dissertation (60 credits completed in Summer Period) Total Credits for the degree =

13 Course Structure for Part-time Students The master s programme was designed for both part-time and full-time students. The design elements can be seen both in the timetable and the timing of modules. Part-time students complete all the compulsory parts of the course in year one. All core research methods training modules taught on Thursdays mornings (from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) enabling the part-time student to be seconded from paid work in a compressed time. Subject to successful completion of the core modules, students can begin initial dissertation research in semester 3. In year 2, they complete the subject specific topic track modules (with lectures and seminars scheduled so far as possible to ensure they only need be absent for work for one morning or afternoon a week) completing their dissertation in Semester 6 (see details on selecting optional modules above under full time students). Part Time - Year 1 Core Modules (80 credits over Semesters 1 & 2) For further details of these modules please consult the CASS PG module handbook. Semester 1 Semester 2 (you must select 3 of the following) (10) Philosophical Issues in Applied Social Research (10) Central Issues in Applied Social Research (10) The Research Interview (10) Qualitative Data Analysis (10) Survey Questionnaire Design (10) Quantitative Data Analysis* (20) Comparative Social Policy (10) Computing with SPSS* *these two modules must be taken concurrently Semester 3 Begin Dissertation Research Total Credits Completed in Year 1 = 80 Year 2 - Part Time Optional Topic Track Modules (total of 40 credits to be completed over Semesters 4 & 5) For further details of these modules please consult the CASS PG module handbook. Semester 4 Options (as listed under full time programme) Semester 6 Complete Dissertation Research Total Credits Completed in Year 2 = 100 Total Credits for Degree = 180 Semester 5 (Options as listed under full time programme) Dissertation Upon successful completion of 120 credits of course work, all students must complete a modest piece of supervised research, which is undertaken during the Summer Period (sometimes known as "Semester 3"). Further details on the dissertation are found in section 7 below. PG Diploma Students Students are registered either as MSc or Postgraduate Diploma candidates, depending on their previous qualifications and experience. However, all students undertake the same coursework programme (amounting to 120 credits) and in this respect receive identical tuition and support. Students may be upgraded from the diploma to the MSc provided they pass all the course work components and achieve an overall average of 50 across all core and optional modules. Further details on assessment are to be found below. 13

14 MSc Applied Social Research (Sociology and Anthropology) Course Director: Dr. Mark Johnson The MSc/PG Diploma in Applied Social Research (Sociology & Anthropology) is built around an integrated social science training programme. The programme is designed to help meet the anticipated shortage of well-trained social researchers with particular attention to anthropological and sociological work of a broadly applied kind. It is intended both as a terminal qualification and as first-year training for those proceeding to PhD research at Hull or elsewhere. As a whole, the programme aims to develop in students: 1) a general understanding of the research process in the social sciences, 2) an awareness of the diversity of research styles, approaches or strategies, 3) an ability to rigorously formulate sociologically and anthropologically informed questions and develop a critical and reflexive methodological approach to address those questions, 4) more specific and practice-based knowledge of a number of quantitative and qualitative (ethnographic) research techniques, and an ability to evaluate their appropriateness to particular research settings and objectives, 5) an appreciation of the linkages between empirical research and theoretical and substantive issues in sociology and social anthropology, with particular reference to their main field of interest, and 6) an ability to complete successful applied research and to effectively and critically use their data and analysis to contribute both to social science knowledge and to applications of that knowledge within and outside academia. An overview of the MSc/PG Diploma is provided in tabular form below. The first two semester periods are for teaching and assessment of core and topic-track modules, while the third semester is devoted to the dissertation (details in section 7 below). During each semester period, full time students must successfully complete 60 credits towards the 180 credit total (for details on part-time study see below). The taught component of the course is structured around a coherent programme of 8 core modules (4 X 10 credit modules in each semester) comprising two-thirds (80 out of 120) of the taught element, together with 2 substantive Topic Track modules (1 X 20 credit module in each semester) comprising one-third of the taught element (40 out of 120 credits). The teaching and learning in the core modules are organized in such a way so that there is a logical progression from semester 1 to semester 2, from the abstract questions of Philosophical Issues to the more concrete concerns of Central Issues and from specific research methodologies and forms of data collection to their corresponding analytical issues and techniques. Optional Modules Alongside the core research training modules, you will choose two substantive and/or theoretical topic track modules drawn from a range of post-graduate options in sociology and anthropology according to your own particular area(s) of interest. A booklet outlining modules for CASS post-graduates is The course director will provide general guidance on appropriate optional topic track modules. However, you may also wish to discuss possible options with the 14

15 relevant lecturers and ask for a module outline. There are normally no restrictions on the choice of options you may take, so long as they are deemed to have sufficient sociological or anthropological content and are approved by the course director. However, you will need to be alert to the possibility of timetable clashes and be aware that the list provided in the PG module handbook is only provisional. It is your responsibility to confirm availability and timetabling with the appropriate departments and module conveners. Please note that most modules begin in week two. Unless and until you feel fully informed on the content of the different options, you should not enter your choices on your Registration Form but either leave the relevant codes blank or delay registering until you have reached a decision. Your final choice should be agreed with Dr Mark Johnson who will initial your registration form. If you wish to change your option at a later stage, you must consult Dr. Johnson and then inform the secretary in the Departmental office. Core Modules (80 credits over Semesters 1 & 2) *For further details of these modules please consult the CASS PG module handbook. Semester 1 Semester 2 (10) Philosophical Issues in Applied Social Research (10) Central Issues in Applied Social Research (10) The research interview (10) Quantitative Data Analysis (10) Survey Questionnaire Design (10) Computing with SPSS (10) Ethnographic Practice (10) Qualitative Data Analysis Topic Track Options * (you must select 40 credits over semesters 1 & 2) *For further details and a complete list of optional modules available in CASS please consult the PG module handbook. (20) Key Issues in Identity Politics and Policies (20) Key Issues in Identity Politics and Policies II (20) Comparative Social Policy (20) Other(ed) Bodies: Anthropology of Gender and Sexual Diversity (10) Crime, Deviance and Social (10) Crime, Deviance and Social Control I Control II (10) Disability Policy, Identity and (10) Disability Policy, Identity and Society II Society I (10) Youth in Society I (10) Youth in Society II (20) Feminism, Politics and Power (20) Community, Conflict and Social Policy (20) Encountering Development: Why Gender Matters (20) Gender Bodies, Gendered Selves (20) Current Issues in Gender and Development Semester 3 Dissertation (60 credits completed in Summer Period) Total Credits for the degree =

16 Part-time Students The master s programme was designed for both part-time and full-time students. The design elements can be seen both in the timetable and the timing of modules. Part-time students complete all the compulsory parts of the course in year one. All core methods training modules taught on Thursdays mornings (from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) enabling the part-time student to be seconded from paid work in a compressed time. Subject to successful completion of the core modules, students can begin initial dissertation research in semester 3. In year 2, they complete the subject specific topic track modules (with lectures and seminars scheduled so far as possible to ensure they only need be absent for work for one morning or afternoon a week) completing their dissertation in Semester 6 (see details on selecting optional modules above under full time students). Year 1 - Part Time Students Core Modules (80 credits over Semesters 1 & 2) For further details of these modules please consult the CASS PG module handbook. Semester 1 Semester 2 (10) Philosophical Issues in Applied Social Research (10) Central Issues in Applied Social Research (10) The Research Interview (10) Qualitative Data Analysis (10) Survey Questionnaire (10) Quantitative Data Analysis* Design (10) Ethnographic Practice (10) Computing with SPSS* Semester 3 Begin Dissertation Research Total Credits Completed in Year 1 = 80 Year 2 - Part Time Students Optional Topic Track Modules (total of 40 credits to be completed over Semesters 4 & 5) For further details of these modules please consult the CASS PG module handbook. Semester 4 Topic Track Options (as listed under full time programme) Semester 5 Topic Track Options (as listed under full time programme) Semester 6 Complete Dissertation Research (60 credits) Total Credits Completed in Year 2 = 100 Total Credits for Degree = 180 Dissertation Upon successful completion of 120 credits of course work, all students must complete a modest piece of supervised research, which is undertaken during the Summer Period (sometimes known as "Semester 3"). Further details on the dissertation are found in section 7 below. PG Diploma Students Students are registered either as MSc or Postgraduate Diploma candidates, depending on their previous qualifications and experience. However, all students undertake the same coursework programme (amounting to 120 credits) and in this respect receive identical tuition and support. Students may be upgraded from the diploma to the MSc provided they pass all the course work components and achieve an overall average of 50 across all core and optional modules. 16

17 5. Personal Development Planning (PDP) and Progress Files All students are entitled to a regular review of their progress on a programme. PDP is defined as 'a structured and supported process undertaken by an individual to reflect upon their own learning, performance and / or achievement and to plan for their personal, educational and career development' (Quality Assurance Agency). It is intended to help students: become more effective, independent and confident self-directed learners; understand how they are learning and relate their learning to a wider context; improve their general skills for study and career management; articulate their personal goals and evaluate progress towards their achievement; and encourage a positive attitude to learning throughout life. Further information about Personal Development Planning and Progress Files can be found in the online student handbook, accessible through the portal - and on the Quality Assurance Agency s website: In Criminology and Sociological Studies, taught postgraduate students will be introduced to PDP through their supervisor, who together with the student will develop an individualized progress file, reflecting the specific needs and interest of the student. Further Training Opportunities There are a number of activities that are not a formal part of the MSc programme but in which you are strongly recommended to participate. You are especially welcome at the regular Departmental Seminars. Indeed we see this as a must for graduate students an opportunity to widen horizons, meet people and make useful contacts (usually with the help of refreshments). There is also a postgraduate work in progress seminar to be run by Dr. Mark Johnson. The Hull Theory Network, the Centre for Research on Comparative Change and Development and the Centre for Gender Studies also organise seminars on topics which will interest different groups of MA and MSc student. Please watch notice boards for announcements. 17

18 6. Module Assessment, Deadlines and Exam Regulations Assessment You will be informed of the assessment rubric for each module by the relevant lecturer. Assessment may take the form of an examination, essay, written project, class presentation or some combination of the above. It is your responsibility to obtain the details from the lecturer concerned. Examinations take place in the main university exam period at the end of each semester (see below). Where assessment is wholly or partly by essays, those failing to meet submission deadlines should expect to have their marks reduced by subtraction of 5 per cent for each day elapsing after the deadline (the standard practice for CASS modules). This means that it is very important to plan a work schedule that enables you to meet all of the relevant deadlines, and to inform your tutors and seek help at early stage if you feel that you are falling behind. Semester Dates and Examination Periods Semester One 25 September 2006 to 15 December 2006 Vacation 18 December 2006 to 12 January 2007 Examinations 15 January 2007 to 26 January 2007 Semester Two 29 January 2007 to 11 May 2007 Easter Vacation 26 March 2007 to 13 April 2007 Examination Weeks 14 May 2007 to 1 June 2007 It is part of the requirement of your degree that you are available during each of the examination periods. It will not be regarded as "good cause" if you are unavailable during the September re-sit period, with the reason that you did not expect to have to sit an examination and had made another commitment. Note that only in the most exceptional circumstances will you be given permission to sit an examination other than at the University. Student Progress Committee will decide whether circumstances meet this criteria, but has made it clear that it intends approval to be rare. The examination timetable for each period is produced by Student Administrative Services and distributed to you by your department. It is your responsibility to check the dates of your examinations, and if you have any clashes, to report those to the department as a matter of urgency. Instructions for Candidates for Written Examinations These are detailed in the on-line handbook ( -academic matters -examinations), and also posted outside each examination hall. It is your responsibility to familiarise yourself with them but you should note the following key points: you are not permitted to take mobile phones into the examination hall to minimise the risk of cheating or the appearance of cheating, bags must be left at the back of the examination hall (but the University cannot accept responsibility for any loss of property) 18

19 Special Needs in Examinations You may have a disability or other special need which requires that specific arrangements need to be made to give you equal opportunity in undertaking the examination. A detailed procedure advises you how to seek assistance and what kind of assistance you can expect. For more information go to -academic matters -examinations. Marking and Feedback Marking is done on a percentage scale in which 40% is the minimum for a Master's-level pass for each module. For those students registered as Diploma entry, who wish to transfer to the Master's programme, 120 credits must be achieved with an overall average of 50%. 60% and above counts as a "good" Master's pass and 70% indicates a Master's pass with Distinction. Two internal examiners mark all exams, essays and other project work. An External Examiner from another University moderates their recommendations. You will be told what marks you have been given as soon as possible, subject to confirmation by the External Examiner, and in the case of essays you will also be given some written "feedback" on your strong and weak points as assessed by the first Internal Examiner. However, such results are provisional, that is they can be changed by the module board -for example on the advice of the external examiner -and they are not therefore final until that Board has met. The fact that a Module Board reduces a mark previously notified to you as provisional does not constitute a ground for appeal. As a general rule, you will be awarded marks for 1) reading/grasp of relevant literature, 2) argument/explanation of the issues, 3) application/spelling out of the implications, and 4) organisation/presentation, including grammar, spelling, absence of typing errors, accuracy of references etc. Credit is given for independent thought and effort to engage with issues rather than simply summarising the views of major sources. Emphasis is also placed on the use of relevant illustrations from case material and the achievement of professional standards of presentation. Marks are finalised and decisions about progression are taken at meetings of Boards of Examiners taking place normally in the second week of February and the third week of June. The decisions of the June Board may include recommendations that Diploma candidates be permitted to re-register as Master s students in the light of an outstanding assessment performance. Transfers of registration from Diploma to MSc may also be recommended at this stage. A student who is considered to have failed only marginally at a given level may, at the discretion of the Board of Examiners, be given the opportunity to resit one or more examination(s) or submit a new item of assessed coursework. Marks in the range of may also be compensated. Re-sits normally take place in early September. Note that the method of reassessment is laid down for each module. It will normally be the same as the method of first assessment, but there are circumstances where an alternative method is necessary for practical reasons. 19

20 Getting your Results At the end of the first semester your results will be available through the University portal (on the University website). At the end of the academic year they will be notified to you formally by Student Administrative Services, in accordance with published deadlines, and will also be available through the University portal. You will not be able to get your results before those deadlines, and under no circumstances will your results be given to you over the telephone, nor will they be given to another person on your behalf. You can however notify a correspondence address to which they can be sent during the Summer vacation. Otherwise they will be sent to your home address. Finalists will receive an official transcript detailing their performance across the whole of the degree programme. Transcripts In addition to receiving an official transcript at the end of your programme of study, you may need copies during your period of study to assist in applying for employment or further study. You should approach Student Administrative Services -further details: Unfair Means - Plagiarism and Cheating The Code of Practice on the Use of Unfair Means -available at governs all forms of illegitimate conduct which may be described as cheating, and also including plagiarism. The term 'unfair means' is used in the code to indicate that a very wide range of behaviour is punishable. The code gives examples, including cheating in an examination by using materials prohibited in the examination room falsifying the results of laboratory, fieldwork or other forms of data collection impersonating another during an examination using false statements to obtain an examination withdrawal or coursework extension removing, hiding or destroying library materials without permission falsifying a transcript or other official document. Conduct is punishable when undertaken by any University of Hull student on any programme, whether acting alone or with others, and conduct which amounts to an attempt to use such means is also a breach of the code. The code defines the procedures which must be followed when an allegation is made, stating the rights of the student, including the establishment of an Adjudicating Panel which is required to determine whether the breach of the code has been proven beyond reasonable doubt. It is essential, therefore, that you recognise that the University takes very seriously any form of illegitimate conduct, especially plagiarism, and that if you are judged to have breached the code this could result in you not being awarded your degree. 20

21 Plagiarism that is, presenting as your own work what is in fact the work of another is regarded as a very serious offence against scholarship. Essay or dissertation work that falls into this category is conventionally awarded a mark of zero (see the Guidelines on Referencing in section 8 for advice on how to avoid slipping into plagiarism). In January 2004 a caution procedure was introduced on a pilot basis. This is currently being reviewed by Student Progress Committee. You will be informed by your department of any changes being introduced. The procedure enables a department to issue a written warning for a first offence of plagiarism to students during the certificate stage (usually first 60 credits) only. The plagiarism declaration - When you submit any piece of work for assessment you are required to attach a cover sheet which contains a declaration, which you must sign. Your work will not be accepted unless the declaration has been signed. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have understood the guidance you have been given about referencing -and therefore how not to commit plagiarism. If you have any doubts you must seek advice from your supervisor or tutor. Where plagiarism is suspected - Where an examiner suspects that a piece of work is plagiarised s/he may issue you with an official Plagiarism Suspicion Form. This requires you to go through the work and, if you have not fully referenced the work -including the use of quotation marks -requiring you to do that, using a different coloured ink. This is not an opportunity to change the text, add further research or ideas. The form may be issued with one of two purposes. First, it may be issued to give you the opportunity to realise what the requirements of good academic referencing are, and therefore to learn from the fact that you have not correctly referenced the work. Second, it may be issued as a means of collecting evidence that you have committed plagiarism. The form warns you that evidence collected as a result of complying with the form may result in a formal allegation being made against you under the Code. Issuing the form does not constitute a formal allegation, however. University regulations concerning postgraduate degrees provide the formal framework of the above guidelines. If you are in any doubt, the Regulations may be consulted with the aid of your supervisor or the Course Director. 21