Description
The Research Essay (RE) is a compulsory module for the LLM programme and makes up 45 of the 180 credits required to obtain the LLM degree.
The RE is an extended piece of writing which forms part of the assessment of a taught master’s programme. It should show that students have identified and understood the key issues in the selected topic and the relevant law and literature, and that they have a capacity for critical analysis in presenting a point of view. The very best essays show some originality in ideas or interpretation. Students at Master’s level are expected to acquire advanced research and writing skills. The best way to acquire these skills is to engage in the task: read the relevant literature, think about the arguments raised, formulate and plan the RE.
Students normally write an RE in an area that they are studying as one of their taught modules. Students may elect to research an area that is outside their taught modules but within a lecturer’s field of expertise, however students should realise that learning a novel area in the time allowed for the RE will rarely allow them to achieve the depth of understanding commensurate with a Master’s degree.
Students who have chosen to follow a specialist degree, must write their RE in an area connected with that specialism.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
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