Postgraduate study

Postgraduate taught 

Philosophy of Mind & Psychology MSc

Philosophy Research Methods C PHIL5096

  • Academic Session: 2026-27
  • School: School of Humanities
  • Credits: 10
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No
  • Curriculum For Life: No

Short Description

Research Methods course for postgraduates enrolled in the MSc in Philosophy of Mind and Psychology. Course will prepare students for general research and employability.

Timetable

1 hour lectures per week x 5 weeks

1 hour seminar per week x 4 weeks

2 hour workshop on critically evaluating arguments x 1 week

Excluded Courses

Philosophy Research Methods B

Co-requisites

None

Assessment

The standard assessments for this course are:

■ 1 x Oral presentation (20 min + 5min q&a) - 40%

■ 1x Essay (1500 words) - 40%

■ 7 May Dissertation plan (1500 words) - 20%

 

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available:

■ Self-recorded presentation + written answers to questions by markers as an alternative to the oral presentation

■ There is no alternative to the essay, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)

■ There is no alternative to the dissertation, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustments (students should follow the usual process for extensions)

 

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.

Course Aims

This course aims to:

■ Develop skills in listening comprehension in philosophy

■ Develop skills in planning and organizing independent research

■ Develop skills relating to employability

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Make an accurate and informative summary of an oral presentation in philosophy that includes the student's own critical commentary.

■ Give a formal presentation of their own research material.

■ Produce a viable and informative research plan for a dissertation of 12,000-15,000 words including a bibliography.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

No exceptions