The aim of the dissertation is to demonstrate the student's ability to carry out independent research and development work and to develop expertise in a focused area of the programme. In undertaking the dissertation, the student should demonstrate initiative and intellectual achievement, understanding of the chosen subject matter, and the principles being applied. He/She will also develop and demonstrate the ability to pursue a subject area of the course to substantial depth and present the dissertation in a precise and coherent manner.

Assessment Process:

The submitted written Dissertation is assessed by the Supervisor (and any Co-Supervisor) and another independent Assessor.  A student may be asked to make an Oral Defence of the Dissertation work in the presence of a Dissertation Committee nominee, the Supervisor, the Assessor and any Co-Supervisor. 

After the written Dissertation has been assessed as satisfactory, a student must submit one soft copy of his/her final Dissertation to the host department office.  The dissertation should follow the format set by the department.  In general, equal weighting would be given to the Supervisor's and the independent Assessor's assessments. The Dissertation Committee shall resolve any major discrepancies between the assessments made by Supervisors and Assessors.