Learning Outcomes:
1. Develop a research question of relevance to the Strategic Management discipline such that the relationships within it can be conceptually developed using relevant theory from the disciple, can be empirically explored and is of relevance to conceptual and empirical debates within the strategy literature. Demonstrate in writing that researching this question can contribute to contemporary debates in the strategy literature.
2. Select and explain in writing the relevance of at least one theory of relevance to both Strategic Management and your research question. Develop this theory into a coherent argument, or conceptual framework, which acts as a bridge between the research question, research design and reflection back from results to prior literature. (Literature reviews may be inductive or deductive in approach; theory building or testing, but in all cases justified in light of above)
3. Explain the logic for selection of your chosen research design, communicating an appraisal of why and how this design is particularly relevant to your core research question(s) and how it can be practically implemented.
4. Demonstrate independence and ethical persistence in the collection of a substantial dataset through which your research question(s) can be explored.
5. Clearly describe your findings and critically evaluate these in the context of the prior literature, being mindful of the depth, contextual boundaries, and potential flaws of your work in of itself and in the context of the state of the art academic literature in your MSc subject area and related fields.
Indicative Module Content:
Content for this module varies depending on a combination of the thesis supervisor and the student's interests. All topics in management and strategy of scholarly and managerial relevance are suitable for this dissertation-based module.