Aims
The primary rationale for this programme is to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and the practical application of research methodologies. By offering a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including research design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation, the programme aims to:
- Enhance Research Skills: Equip students with the tools and techniques to conduct high-quality research.
- Develop Critical Thinking: Foster critical thinking and analytical abilities to evaluate research questions and methodologies.
- Improve Academic Writing Proficiency: Refine writing skills to produce clear, concise, and impactful research papers.
- Cultivate Scholarly Habits: Encourage a scholarly mindset and a commitment to academic excellence.
- Build Confidence: Boost students’ self-assurance in their ability to undertake independent research.
By investing in this Level 8 Doctoral Diploma in Research, candidates can significantly increase their chances of success in their doctoral studies and contribute meaningfully to the field of business administration.
Learning Outcomes
A) Knowledge and Understanding
- Demonstrate a deep and comprehensive understanding of advanced research methodologies and methods across various fields within business administration, including quantitative and qualitative approaches.
- Critically evaluate and synthesize complex theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence relevant to their chosen research topic via a critical literature review.
- Apply advanced statistical techniques and tools to analyse and interpret large and complex datasets.
- Articulate the ethical implications of research and demonstrate a commitment to responsible research practices.
- Understand the nuances of different research paradigms (e.g., positivism, interpretivism, critical theory) and their applicability to various research questions.
- Demonstrate a deep understanding of academic writing conventions including style, structure, and citation formats.
- Critically evaluate the quality of academic writing in terms of clarity, coherence, and originality.
- Identify and critically assess the limitations of existing research and propose appropriate approaches to address these shortcomings.
B) Cognitive (Thinking) Skills
- Critically analyse and evaluate complex research problems and formulate original research questions.
- Develop and apply fit for purpose research designs that address complex research questions.
- Synthesize and integrate diverse theoretical perspectives to generate new insights and knowledge.
- Critically evaluate the validity and reliability of research evidence and identify potential biases.
- Demonstrate advanced problem-solving skills and apply creative thinking to overcome challenges in the research process.
- Communicate complex research ideas effectively and persuasively to both academic and non-academic audiences.
- Synthesize complex information from various sources into a coherent and persuasive argument.
- Critically analyse and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different academic writing styles.
C) Transferable Skills
- Demonstrate independent and self-directed learning and the ability to manage complex research projects effectively.
- Communicate effectively both orally and in writing, including the ability to present complex research findings to a variety of audiences.
- Adapt to changing research environments and demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges.
- Critically reflect on one’s own research practices and engage in continuous research and professional development.
- Ethical decision-making and the ability to apply ethical principles to research practices.
- Communicate complex ideas effectively in written form, tailoring their writing to different audiences.
D) Practical skills
- Demonstrate proficiency in using advanced research software and tools (e.g., statistical software, data analysis tools, bibliographic databases).
- Apply advanced data analysis techniques to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets.
- Design and conduct effective research interviews and focus groups.
- Develop and implement rigorous data collection protocols that ensure data quality and reliability.
- Critically evaluate and select appropriate research instruments (e.g., surveys, questionnaires, case studies).
- Prepare and submit high-quality research proposals.
- Produce high-quality academic writing that adheres to the standards of their field.
- Use appropriate research tools and software to support their academic writing process
Programme Structure
This 100 credits Level 8 Doctoral Diploma in Research consists of 5 modules of 20 credits each, and each module as set out below:
Module 1: Undertaking and Writing a Critical Literature Review
Module 2: Research Methodologies
Module 3: Advanced Research Methods and Analysis
Module 4: Academic Research Writing
Module 5: Reflective Research Skill and Professional Development Portfolio
Assessment of Modules 1 – 5
- 100% Individual Assignment(s)
- The Reflective Research Skills and Professional Development module has three assessments, each with a word count of between 1,500 and 2,000 words (totaling a maximum of 6,000 words).
- All other modules have a single assignment with a word count of between 6,000 and 6,500 words.
Overview of the Programme Structure
(a) All students undergo an online induction workshop, which is not assessed and is aimed at acquiring e-learning skills for the use of the online learning portal and e-library. In addition, academic expectations, regulations, and the concept of independent learning are also covered, and the induction will be delivered through a pre-recorded video.
(b) There are 5 mandatory modules of 20 credits each.
(c) To complete the programme and gain the Level 8 Doctoral Diploma in Research award, students must successfully complete and earn a total of 100 credits.
(d) Each term will usually be delivered over a duration of 8 weeks, where the cycle of delivery will follow a prescribed module planner for a full academic year.
(e) Students are required to complete their Level 8 Doctoral Diploma in Research between a minimum of 10 months and a maximum of 12 months from the time of enrollment as a student.
Delivery Mode
(a) Mode A: Blended Learning mode – Each taught Module should have a total of 8 hours of face-to-face lectures and supported by self-study using the Online Learning Resources and online interactions with the Module Leader.
(b) Mode B: Fully Online mode – Each taught Module should have a total of 8 hours of asynchronous classes. There will be a Programme Tutor to answer any questions or queries. This will be supported by self-study using Online Learning Resources. Pre-recorded video lectures for each module will be provided.
Admission Criteria
An applicant may be admitted on the basis of evidence to suggest that he/she will be able to fulfil and benefit from the objectives of the programme and achieve the standard required for the award and have:
· A recognised master’s degree or equivalent in a subject area relevant to the proposed research topic.
· A minimum of two years’ post-qualification professional practice and ability to demonstrate professional competence of a high standard in the relevant research area.
· EU and international students need IELTS 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in any other component) or equivalent.