2018-19 HBS PG STUDENT Dissertation Handbook - Final H Wells For PRINT

UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE
Hertfordshire Business School
Postgraduate Dissertation Handbook

STUDENTS
Academic Year: 2018 – 2019
Semester Intake: A or B
Dr Hany Wells
Associate Dean - Postgraduate Development

Postgraduate Dissertation Handbook for all Students 2018-19
This Dissertation Handbook is designed to provide all postgraduate (PG) students with
detailed guidelines for the management and development of your Dissertation module.
Most PG students at Hertfordshire Business School (HBS) must complete a Dissertation,
normally as the final assessment part of their programme. Hence it is crucial for you to
read this handbook, as the ultimate responsibility for managing a successful Dissertation
is yours. The guidance in this handbook forms Part One of the overall guidelines to all PG
students in developing a Dissertation, outlining the management processes and
procedures involved. The overall rules, regulations, ethics approval process and
Dissertation timetable are also included.
Part Two to this handbook is developed by the Dissertation module leader with a
programme-centric perspective, and contains programme specific information outlining
the arrangements for the development and management of the Dissertation and research
Method module for that specific programme. It is provided separately by the Dissertation
module leader.
Students on different programmes may undertake different types of research work, for
instance, Applied Individual Project (AIP), Business Research Report or Business Plan.
Please refer to the respective handbook developed and provided by the respective module
leader
I
Table of Contents
1. What is a Master’s Dissertation? .................................................................... 1
2. Contact Details for Dissertation Module Leaders .......................................... 2
3. Dissertation Schedule, Timetable and Deadlines ........................................... 3
4. Dissertation Progress and Management ......................................................... 5
4.1 Selecting and Agreeing a Dissertation Topic................................................................ 6
4.2 Dissertation and Research Skills Module Details ......................................................... 7
4.3 Supervision Management and Dissertation Development ............................................ 8
4.4 Request for Absence – Tier 4 Students ......................................................................... 9
5. Dissertation Support ..................................................................................... 10
6. Ethics Guidelines for Postgraduate Research............................................... 11
6.1 Primary Research ........................................................................................................ 11
6.2 Secondary Research .................................................................................................... 14
6.3 Academic Misconduct ................................................................................................ 18
6.4 Turnitin ....................................................................................................................... 18
7. Dissertation Structure and Formatting ......................................................... 19
8. Arrangement for Dissertation Submission ................................................... 21
8.1 Electronic Submission ................................................................................................ 21
8.2 Hard Copy Submission ............................................................................................... 21
8.3 Request for Extension ................................................................................................. 21
8.4 Dissertation Marking and Late Submissions .............................................................. 22
9. Dissertation Results: Pass, Referral, Deferral and Repeat ........................... 23
10. Recommended Reading List ........................................................................ 25
Appendices .......................................................................................................... 28
Appendix 1: PG Dissertation First Information Form ........................................................ 28
Appendix 2: Request for Absence – Tier 4 Students ........................................................... 29
Appendix 3: Dissertation Log .............................................................................................. 30
Appendix 4: Front Cover Page ............................................................................................ 34
Appendix 5: Title Page ....................................................................................................... 35
Appendix 6: Request for an extension – up to two weeks ................................................... 36
Appendix 7: Serious Adverse Circumstances (SAC) Guidelines ....................................... 38
Appendix 8: SAC Application Form / Dissertation Deferral Request Form ....................... 47
Appendix 9: Dissertation Mark Sheet .................................................................................. 51
Appendix 10: PG Dissertation Assessment & Grading Criteria Matrix .............................. 54
Appendix 11: What Happens After the Formal Submission ............................................... 60
Appendix 12: How to Calculate your Master’s Award ....................................................... 63
1. What is a Master’s Dissertation?

The Dissertation is usually the final part of the MA or MSc programme. It is one of the most
significant parts of your PG study through which Master’s level quality is identified and
assessed. It is an individual undertaking and the ultimate responsibility for the successful
planning, development and completion rests with you. Therefore, you need to demonstrate
the ability to work independently and ethically in selecting and researching the relevant topic
of your choice. Dissertations usually involve either an element of original research and/or the
re-work of secondary material from an original perspective. The successful completion of the
Dissertation module differentiates between students who successfully complete the taught
part of a postgraduate programme and those who can additionally demonstrate the ability to
carry out a significant piece of independent study to achieve a Master’s degree.
Aim and Objectives of the HBS Master’s Dissertation
The aim of a Dissertation is to enable students to advance their knowledge of the field
relevant to the programme of study, by pursuing an independent research project on a
selected topic within the field.
Students completing the Dissertation will be assessed on the following skills and abilities:
 To develop and apply postgraduate level skills of independent research, analysis,

judgement and evaluation, writing and presentation.
 To demonstrate the capacity to understand and explain business management
issues, opportunities and/or situations in their contexts.
 To demonstrate understanding of areas of literature relevant to the research topic.
A dissertation should include well-defined research questions or objectives, specified by

the student at the outset. It should present a logically developed argument and provide
supporting evidence to validate and verify the rationale for the case. Dissertations will
need to follow an appropriate and relevant research strategy and design from the overall
approach to data collection and analysis techniques, such as: a case study, a comparative
study using a quantitative approach or a qualitative approach.
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2. Contact Details for Dissertation Module Leaders

PROGRAMME Programme Code Module Leader Email
MA Human Resource Management BSHRMT Gary Pheiffer G.Pheiffer@herts.ac.uk
MBA (Master of Business Administration) MBA Phil Mason P.Mason3@herts.ac.uk
MSc Accounting and Financial Management BSAFM Edna Stan-Maduka E.I.Stan-maduka@herts.ac.uk
MSc Business Analysis and Consultancy BSBAC Soheil Davari S.Davari@herts.ac.uk
MSc Business and Organisational Strategy BSBOS Rachelle Andrews R.1.Andrews@herts.ac.uk
MSc Finance and Investment Baniking BSFIB Edward Lee e.y.lee@herts.ac.uk
MSc Global Business BSGB Paul Smith P.E.Smith@herts.ac.uk

BSMIB
(International Business
Report) David Ogle D.Ogle@herts.ac.uk
MSc International Business BSMIB
(Business Plan) David Ogle D.Ogle@herts.ac.uk
MSc International Tourism and Hospitality
Management BSITH Mary Quek M.J.Quek@herts.ac.uk
MSc Leadership and Management in Public Services BSLMPS Hans Schlappa H.Schlappa@herts.ac.uk
MSc Management BSMGMT Mary Simpson M.A.Simpson@herts.ac.uk
MSc Marketing BSMSCMK Madeline Tan M.Tan20@herts.ac.uk
MSc Project Management BSPM Marija Cubric M.Cubric@herts.ac.uk

Birinder B.S.Sandhawalia@herts.ac.u
MSc Project Management Practice BSNCPMP Sandhawalia k
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3. Dissertation Schedule, Timetable and Deadlines

The Dissertation is usually completed within eight to twelve months, depending on the
programme of study. This period starts from the date you register for the Dissertation module.
At HBS there are two cohorts of Dissertation students: Semester A and Semester B.
Semester A intake full-time students starting in September 2018
Task to complete Deadlines

First Information Form (FIF) Submission: No later than
Students must complete the Dissertation FIF (Appendix 1). This 15th February 2019
form will be used by the module leader and the Head of Subject
Group to assign a Supervisor.
Recommended ethics application submission deadline 29th March 2019
Regular meetings with Supervisor See Part Two for details
Final submission: 5th September 2019
 one electronic copy in PDF via StudyNet module site, and
 two hard copies, printed double sided to a designated room
(details to be confirmed nearer to the submission date).
Any early submissions should be submitted to The Coursework
Point.
Semester B intake Full-time Students Starting in January 2019
Task to complete Deadlines

First Information Form (FIF) Submission: No later than
Students must complete the Dissertation FIF (Appendix 1). This 7th June 2019
form will be used by the module leader and the Head of Subject
Group to assign a Supervisor.
Recommended ethics application submission deadline 25th October 2019
Regular meetings with Supervisor See Part Two
Final submission: 16th April 2020
 one electronic copy in PDF via StudyNet module site, and
 two hard copies double sided to a designated room (details to
be confirmed nearer to the submission date).
Any early submissions should be submitted to The Coursework
Point.
Deadlines for part-time students:
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Part-time students will need to refer to the schedule specified by Dissertation module leaders,
as the arrangement for Dissertation management and submission may vary for part-time
students in different programmes.
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4. Dissertation Progress and Management

It is vital for students to manage their time effectively throughout developing and completing the dissertation. Below are recommended timescale
and milestones.
February / March / April / May / June /

June October November December Janurary
• Submission • Submit • Complete • Complete • Complete
of FIF Ethics Chapter 1 - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 -
• Allocation of Application Introduction Literature Methodology
Superviors by • Start with Review
programme • Start with Literature • Start Data • Move onto
teams Introduction Review Collection Data Analysis
December/ October September / August July

September / June April / March / February
• Complete Chapter 5 -
• Graduation • Dissertation • Complete the Conclusions & • Complete
Ceremony Result will Draft & Recommendations Chapter 4 -
be published Proof Read • Complete Findings &
• Transcripts Reflection, Abstract Analysis
& Acknowledgement
will be • SUBMIT ON • Start
collected TIME Concluding
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4.1 Selecting and Agreeing a Dissertation Topic
The Dissertation topic may arise from literature relating to your programme of study or a
practical business or management problem. Alternatively, you may relate it to your current /
past work experience and select a topic that is practically based. You may be able to use the
research topic that you developed in Research Skills / Research Methods / Dissertation
Preparation module. You will need to think carefully about the exact focus of the Dissertation
topic. The chosen topic needs to be initiated by you and needs to be of interest to you, as you
will be spending around 600 hours of work on it. Given the lengthy process of Dissertation
development, you will need to sustain interest in the topic throughout the process of
researching and the final write up.
The topic can be further developed through discussion with your Dissertation Supervisor.
The topic selected will need to be appropriate to the programme of study, logistically
feasible, adequately resourced and will adequately address ethics, safety and any required
permissions. Therefore, you will need to invest some time in thinking about your chosen area
and topic for research.
Your first submission is usually the Dissertation First Information Form (FIF) (Appendix 1).
This form is used to allocate a supervisor, usually in the proposed subject discipline. A
detailed proposal (See Part Two) may need to be submitted if your FIF is unclear. This
process (the production of the detailed proposal) is usually part of the Research Skills /
Research Methods / Dissertation Preparation module and managed by the respective module
leader.
In some programmes, completion of the Research Skills / Research Methods / Dissertation

Preparation module is a pre-requisite to start the Dissertation. This means you cannot proceed
with the Dissertation - in particular the primary data investigation - until the module is
passed. This arrangement varies from programme to programme; hence see Part Two for
further information on this arrangement.
The following section outlines the module code and credit for each Dissertation and research
module for every postgraduate programme at HBS.
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4.2 Dissertation and Research Skills Module Details

 Dissertation is replaced by Business Report or Business Plan or Applied Individual Project in some programmes
 Research Skills may also be referred as Research Methods / Dissertation Preparation in different modules
PROGRAMME Dissertation Dissertation Module Dissertation Research Research Skills Research
Module Leader Code Credit Skills Module Leader Module Code Skills Credit
7BSP1037 (MA 45
CIPD route)
MA / PG Dip Human Resource Management Gary Pheiffer 7BSP1036 (MA non- 45 Gary Pheiffer 7BSP1298 15
CIPD route)
7BSP1051 (PG 45
Diploma – CIPD
route
Master of Business Administration (MBA) Phil Mason 7BSM1061 45 Hans Schlappa 7BSM1058 0
MSc Accounting and Financial Management Edna Stan-Maduka 7BSP1228 60 Mary Simpson 7BSP1127 30
MSc Business Analysis and Consultancy Soheil Davari 7BSP1180 60 Priyanka Roy 7BSP1285 15
MSc Business and Organisational Strategy Rachelle Andrews 7BSP1294 60 Rachelle Andrews 7BSP1344 0
MSc Finance and Investment Banking Edward Lee 7BSP1338 45 Edward Lee 7BSP1337 15
MSc Global Business Paul Smith 7BSP0357 60 Sarah Khalil 7BSP1268 0

David Ogle 7BSP1287 60
MSc International Business (Research Report) Xiangping Du 7BSP1205 15
David Ogle 7BSP1286 60
(Business Plan)
MSc International Tourism and Hospitality Management Mary Quek 7BSP1136 60 Nika Balomenou 7BSP1139 15
MSc Leadership and Management in Public Services Hans Schlappa 7BSP1241 60 Janet French 7BSP1240 15
MSc Management Xiangping Du 7BSP1246 60 Mary Simpson 7BSP1249 15
MSc Marketing Madeline Tan 7BSP1261 45 Ariadne Kapetanaki 7BSP1263 15
MSc Project Management Marija Cubric 7BSP1266 60 Marija Cubric 7BSP1191 0
MSc Project Management Practice Birinder Sandhawalia 7BSP1162 60 Birinder Sandhawalia 7BSP1161 3
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4.3 Supervision Management and Dissertation Development

All PG students will be assigned to a Dissertation supervisor, who will guide and support
students throughout the development of the Dissertation. Supervisors are NOT responsible
for the progress of your Dissertation but can help you with guidance on the structure,
content and overall coherence of the Dissertation. It is vital that you keep in regular
contact with your supervisor and consider the advice that you are given very carefully.
Arranging regular meetings with your Dissertation Supervisor is your responsibility. Your
supervisor will have received a time allocation for your supervision, which incorporates
time for reading drafts and your final submission, plus second marking of other students’
work. You can book up to seven face-to-face meetings, each up to forty five minutes, with
your supervisor. However, if you fail to turn up without prior notice or valid reasons, this
will be recorded as a 'no-show' for that supervision meeting.
It will benefit you to make every effort to use the time with your Supervisor effectively, e.g.
 Prior to meeting the supervisor, forward any chapter or other significant piece of work
you have completed with time for your supervisor to read before the meeting.
 Always have clear objectives in mind and be prepared to discuss your ideas and progress
rather than simply asking what to do next.
 Bring copies of what you want to discuss to the meeting. Do not expect that your
Supervisor will have these ready.
 In particular, supervisors can help enormously by reviewing drafts of questionnaires or
interview questions before you carry out your primary research; you only get one chance
at carrying out your primary research.
Remember that the meetings with your supervisor are part of the management of the
Dissertation. These will be recorded in your Dissertation Log (Appendix 3) and signed by
yourself and your supervisor. During the supervision meeting you will be expected to review
the work you have done on your Dissertation since the last meeting and to set goals to be
achieved by the next meeting.
Please note that most teaching staff take annual leave at some time during the
July/August/September period. It is your responsibility to make arrangements with your
supervisor to ensure that you receive support prior to or over the summer period. Please
also note that CASE have a summer support programme for all PG Dissertation students
(See CASE PG support timetable nearer the time).
If for any reason or at any time you feel your relationship with your allocated supervisor is
not working you must not change supervisors without agreement with your
Dissertation module leader. Academic staff cannot agree to supervise you unless you use
the proper procedures. Please see your Dissertation module leader in the first instance.
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Failure to seek regular supervisory support and record progress in the Dissertation Log will
be taken into account when your Dissertation is being assessed.
4.4 Request for Absence – Tier 4 Students
The study period for full-time students includes all periods when no teaching is
taking place. In general students are expected to be available for supervision at HBS for
the whole of the Dissertation development period. If you are an overseas student and
return home at any time during this period, you need to ensure that your Supervisor is
aware of this and you have obtained the approval from your programme tutor by
completing the Tier 4 Authorised Absence Form as advised above. Supervisors may be
happy to continue the supervision by email or Skype. You must be prepared to be available
for possible viva voce (personal interview) arrangements during the assessment period.
Therefore, Tier 4 Authorised Absence Form (see Appendix 2) should be completed by all
Tier 4 students wishing to take prolonged absence, i.e. one week or more for full-time
students, and two or more consecutive sessions for part-time students. Otherwise, it may
affect your immigration status here in the UK.
If you have any queries related to your visa, please seek advice from the International Student
Support team based in the Student Centre (Hutton Hub) or email iss@herts.ac.uk.
Once the form is completed, it needs to be signed by your Programme Tutor, and then passed
onto your PG Administrator (bspgadmin@herts.ac.uk). Academic approval should be granted
before the leave of absence is taken. Where possible, request for absence should be submitted
at least five working days prior to the start of absence.
Please note that this form does NOT replace the Serious Adverse Circumstance (SAC)
process (Appendix 8).
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5. Dissertation Support
Your supervisor is main point of contact should you need any form of support. Additionally,
there are other means of support to help you:
Dissertation Module Leaders

The members of staff listed in section 2 are able to advise on the administrative details of
your Dissertation, such as deadlines, required elements, submission details etc.
PG Academic Advisor
PG Academic advisor in CASE can support you to improve your academic skills required for
your Dissertation, and advise you on any other personal related issues which may affect the
progress of the Dissertation.
Centre for Academic Skills Enhancement (CASE) can support you on:
 Dissertation samples for viewing available in CASE.
 PG dissertation guides under ‘Dissertations and Projects’ folder, e.g. 1) Doing a
Dissertation – Overview; 2) Phrases for Academic Writing and more.
 Research Skills (Online Materials) under ‘Dissertations and Projects’ folder.
 Academic Skills Workshops (during term-time) on many relevant topics, e.g.
Harvard Referencing, Analysis & Critical Evaluation.
 Additional Dissertation surgeries during the Christmas and summer period.
Statistics drop-in support on maths, statistics, data analysis, SPSS and quantitative queries
are available in CASE (See CASE timetable).
Finding information and using specialist business databases support are available via
Mike (m.mylles@herts.ac.uk) or Jane (j.bilson@herts.ac.uk) for queries or appointments.
Dissertation formatting / Microsoft Office support can be obtained from HBS learning
technologist Que Mirza @ CASE-Technology@herts.ac.uk.
CASE Editing Services. If your supervisor thinks that your Dissertation English needs a lot
of correction, CASE can put you in touch with an approved external editor who will edit the
English for you. To use the service, you will need your supervisor’s permission, mention of
the use of the service in your Dissertation acknowledgement section, and completion of the
CASE editing form (available from the CASE office). You also need to ensure that your
Dissertation is in a final stage sufficiently in advance of the submission deadline to give the
editor time to work on your draft. Editors can only accept the complete final draft, and not
separate sections. This is not a free service, and costs and timings can be agreed with the
editor, once you have sent this to CASE, and CASE have put you in touch with one of their
approved editors. Editors normally require two weeks to complete your edit. Remember that
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the editors only correct English and do not change structure, content or referencing. See the
CASE guide to Dissertation/Project Editing Services for more information.
6. Ethics Guidelines for Postgraduate Research

The University has general ethics guidelines for research which must be complied with by
students within HBS. These guidelines offer a framework which embraces the ethical
responsibilities of researchers and contains procedures which should be adopted formulating
good research practice.
Prior to embarking on any research, it is imperative for students to justify the need for
collecting information or data as, in some cases, this could be more easily obtained through
published sources. Researchers should be aware of their role, the parameters of their
responsibility and to whom they are accountable. They need to be sensitive to some
fundamental ethical issues that may arise in research activities which could have an impact,
either positive or negative, on individuals or participants. It is recognised that there may be
circumstances when there is a conflict between the value of the furtherance of knowledge and
ethical considerations.
If the nature of your research changes during the process of the Dissertation you MUST
speak to your supervisor and your Dissertation module leader, as you may be required to
submit another ethics form. The ethics guidelines vary between primary research and
secondary research.
6.1 Primary Research
Primary research (data gathering that involves human participants) requires ethics approval
prior to any data collection. The ethics approval can be gained by submitting an ethics
application via your supervisor for UH ethics committee’s consideration and awaiting a
decision from a review panel.
Applications for studies considered to involve low risk research should take approximately 10
working days to process. However, it can take longer if your research is considered to involve
high risk or your ethics application is not complete or requires further explanation or
justification.
To gain ethics approval, you must follow the UH ethics guidance and complete the relevant
ethics application forms available from
http://www.studynet1.herts.ac.uk/ptl/common/ethics.nsf/Homepage?ReadForm.
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You would need to complete EC1A Individual or Group (not NHS); you may also need to
complete some other relevant forms, such as EC3, EC5 and EC6, as well as EC7 if your
approval is conditional.
Ethics Approval Process:

Ethics Clerks perform an Ethics feedback issued
Supervisor
admin check of the and resubmission
submits
paperwork and arrange requested if necessary or
application
for the ethics review approval granted
Ethics Approval Guidelines

As demonstrated above, the ethics forms should be completed by the applicant, and checked
by the supervisor. Once the application form is complete and the supervisor has confirmed
their support for the ethics application submission, the form and other necessary attachments
can be sent electronically to the relevant ECDA email address (ssahecda@herts.ac.uk) by the
Supervisor ONLY.
If the form is sent electronically from the applicant or any other person who is not the
supervisor of the research, the paperwork will be forwarded to the supervisor and their support
will be requested. This will cause a delay in processing the application.
If it is not possible for you or your supervisor to complete your application electronically, a
hard-copy may be submitted. This must be physically signed by both the applicant and the
supervisor (in pen), marked for the attention of the Ethics Administrators and handed in to, or
posted to, the Ethics Clerks, Ground Floor, MacLaurin Building, de Havilland Campus
Please ensure you discuss your application with your supervisor and take on board their
advice and guidance. The Ethics Clerks will contact you should you need to amend your
paperwork during the process. Your supervisor will also be copied in to any correspondence.
Applications for studies considered to involve low risk research should take approximately 10
working days to process. You will receive a UH protocol number when your application has
been approved. This number should be written on your Dissertation front sheet when you
submit the final report. You are not permitted to recruit participants or start to collect
data until you have UH ethics approval.
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Verifying primary research
Your primary research will be examined. You should always consult your supervisor prior to
the collection of primary data. For example, asking your supervisor’s comments on your
questionnaire and/or interview design before you start to collect the data.
Your supervisor has the right to request for access to the original data at any point before
Dissertation marking is completed. Therefore, you should keep records of your primary data
until your receive your Dissertation results. The primary data records can be interview
recordings, completed questionnaires hard copies, online survey login details etc., so your
supervisor can check the authenticity of the data, if available. Your Dissertation may not be
marked if you are unable to provide the original data on request, or you may not be given any
mark on your findings and the remaining content chapters of the Dissertation.
Should any other language besides English be involved in your research, translation should
be made available in an agreed form with your supervisor, e.g. bilingual transcripts. Where
any translations are involved, you should also justify the reliability of the translation.
Using Online Survey Tools
Online surveys can be very time consuming and costly to collect data. Online Survey
(formally BOS) and Qualtrics are both commonly used professional survey tools. They
provide a quick and easy way to create and share your surveys through email, a web link or
social media which you can use to carry out a survey. They also allow effective collaboration,
distribution and analytics for projects or studies which can be shared with peers or academics.
Students would need an account for Online Survey (OS) and Qualtrics. If students are
interested in using either OS or Qualtrics, please first discuss it with their allocated
Supervisor who must then contact CASE-Technology@herts.ac.uk to request a OS account
on behalf of the student with the student’s name and email address.
If students are using Online Surveys (OS) or Qualitrics for their research, then your
supervisors must have access to the student accounts, in order to check the authenticity of
their research.
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6.2 Secondary Research
Secondary research (use of data previously gathered by others and sometime called “desk
research” or “library research”) does NOT require ethics approval so you will not be required
to apply for UH ethics approval, or obtain a UH ethics protocol number. Throughout the
Dissertation writing process, your supervisor will check that you are continuing only to use
secondary data. Second markers and other moderators will also check this when the work is
submitted. There are penalties for students who are found to have breached ethics procedures.
Students only using secondary sources, and their Supervisors, should sign the
declaration below. A copy of this declaration should be submitted with your Dissertation
and one copy should be submitted to your Dissertation module leader.
SECONDARY RESEARCH DECLARATION

I declare that my research involves ONLY secondary sources that any member of the public
is legitimately free to access and use without obtaining permission.
I declare that my research includes agreed access to the company / organisation / charity
named in this dissertation, from who I have permission to access sources which are
confidential to it, and that I have agreed to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of these
sources.
I understand that should I wish to amend my study and collect data from human participants,
I am required to apply for and receive UH ethics approval prior to recruiting participants and
collecting data.
I understand that failure to obtain UH ethics approval for the collection of primary data
constitutes a breach of ethics and academic penalties may apply.
Programme Title :
Dissertation Module :
Leader’s Name
Student’s Name : Student’s :

ID Number
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Student’s Signature : Date :
Supervisor’s Name :
Supervisor’s : Date :
Signature
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Integrity of Research
As an underlying principle, there must be a sense of openness and transparency when

conducting research. Researchers have the responsibility to:
 Use the information or data collected only for the purpose intended, and are under an
obligation to prevent its misuse.
 Recognise that they must not influence the opinion or behaviour of participants,
though, in some instances, their presence may well influence the participant’s
response.
 Ensure that bias is eliminated or, at least, minimised.
 Alert potential users of the research about any limitations of validity and reliability of
the research methodology.
Awareness and sensitivity
Any research involving human participants should be explained, as comprehensively as

possible, to all concerned. Researchers must take into account the nature and the degree of
sensitivity relating to the specific area under investigation. The following elements should be
fully communicated:
 The nature and purpose of the research.

 How information or data is collected, stored and analysed.
 Assurance given in relation to identity, anonymity and confidentiality, as
appropriate, ensuring that guarantees are fulfilled.
 Individuals must have the right to refuse participation or withdraw their responses.
 Research using under 18s will be undertaken only under exceptional
circumstances. Any such proposal would need to be discussed with your
Supervisor and then given full consideration by the relevant Ethics Committee.
 For vulnerable groups, e.g. people in hospital or care homes, please note that you
may need an additional personal criminal records check (DBS clearance) which
can take several months and for which a fee needs to be paid.
Things to make sure you do and you don’t
 Do complete, sign and submit an application for ethics approval form by the
recommended due date for primary research only.
 Do discuss and explain clearly the work with your supervisor.
 Do observe local customs and regulations.
 Do inform participants of the purpose and method of the investigation. ‘Covert’
research (research without telling participants) will not be approved.
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 Do obtain permission, consent or approval before the start of the investigation if the
research takes place in a work environment.
 Do assure confidentiality or ensure acceptability from the participants for disclosure
of information or data obtained.
 Do ensure consideration and respect for others.
 Do be aware of responsibilities to the University, organisation, industry, profession
and the general public.
 Do seek advice from the supervisor prior to carrying out primary research.
 Do be aware of the University’s guidelines on intellectual property rights.
 Do make sure there is security of information or data, where appropriate.
 Do ensure that any assurances given are honoured.
 Do create a good impression by behaving ethically to open doors for future
researchers and students on placements.
 Do always recognise sources of information.
 Don’t cause unnecessary emotional stress, embarrassment or annoyance to

participants.
 Don’t ask potentially offensive or intrusive questions, especially in relation to
sexuality, race or religion.
 Don’t plagiarise.
High ethical standards must be maintained at all times as the integrity of researchers and the
image of the School and the University are at stake. If ever in doubt, always ask.
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6.3 Academic Misconduct
Make sure that your work has academic integrity and that it is truly your own work. Any
circumstances of academic misconduct will face serious consequences. Most academic
misconduct incidents fall under the following categories: Cheating, plagiarism, collusion,
breach of professional confidentiality, failure to obtain ethics approval prior to undertaking
work involving human participants (UPR RE01) and failure to comply with the terms and
conditions of an ethics approval granted for work involving human participants (UPR RE01).
The following is a brief definition of cheating, plagiarism and collusion:
Cheating: to attempt to gain an unfair, improper or dishonest advantage in the assessment

process.
Plagiarism: the representation by an individual, whether intentionally or otherwise of

another person’s work as their own, or use of another person’s work without
acknowledgment being included; this includes copying text from the internet or from books
without stating that this is where the text comes from or putting it in quotation marks.
Collusion: evidence of the representation by an individual of work which he or she has

undertaken jointly with another person as having been undertaken independently of that
person; in other words, working closely with other students on your individual assessed work.
Other academic misconduct includes: falsification of data, duplication of assessed work

without acknowledging previous submission, allowing or helping another student to copy or
paraphrase your work without acknowledgment.
A detailed definition of each can be found in the Academic Offences Section in the UPR
http://sitem.herts.ac.uk/secreg/upr/pdf/AS14-Apx3-Assessment%20Offences-v10.0.pdf.
6.4 Turnitin
Every final Dissertation submitted on StudyNet will be checked for plagiarism via Turnitin
software, and the similarity reports will be used to identify suspected plagiarism. Dissertation
supervisors will report suspected plagiarism to the Academic Conduct Unit. Therefore,
students are strongly advised to use the Turnitin self-check facility to check the Dissertation
draft and make amendments prior to the final submission.
The Turnitin check facility will be set up by your Dissertation module leader when the
Dissertation Assignment is set up under the relevant module site. The Turnitin user guide /
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instructions can be found from the CASE website Turnitin folder. Any Turnitin related
queries should be addressed to your module leader.
7. Dissertation Structure and Formatting

The Dissertation should be presented to high standard. CASE have some Dissertation
samples and you are advised to view them to see what a final Dissertation looks like.
The following structure is recommended, although this may change based on the type of
Dissertation or your supervisor may suggest an alternative heading:
1. Front Cover Page (Appendix 4)
2. Title Page (Appendix 5)
3. Acknowledgment
4. Executive Summary or Abstract (brief, normally not more than 350 words)
5. Table of Contents and Page Numbers
6. List of Figures and Tables
7. Chapter One – Introduction
8. Chapter Two – Literature Review
9. Chapter Three – Research Methodology and Methods
10. Chapter Four – Data Findings and Analysis
11. Chapter Five – Conclusions and Recommendations (where appropriate)
12. Personal Reflections
13. References
14. Appendices: Must include your proposal, dissertation log, ethics related information
(primary research needs to include final ethics application form and ethics approval letter,
questionnaire/interview questions and anonymised evidence of original data for primary
research, e.g. completed questionnaire samples or interview transcriptions; secondary
research need to include the signed secondary declaration form).
Word Count
The 15,000 (+ / - 10%) word limit:
INCLUDES EXCLUDES
All discussion from the first chapter up to Front Page, Abstract, Acknowledgment,
and including the final chapter of Table of Content, List of Figures and
conclusions and recommendations Tables, Personal Reflections
Tables, charts, diagrams within the body of
the discussion
In-text References/ In-text Citations List of references and appendices
Typically for most programmes at HBS, there is no penalty for submitting a Dissertation
report containing (+ / - 10%) of overall limit of 15,000 words. The number of words used
must be stated on the first page of the Dissertation. In general, if submissions are in excess of,
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or less than, the word count, the recommended penalty is that the mark will be reduced by
one grade classification (10%), with a maximum penalty leading to a mark of 50% being
awarded. You will not fail on penalties alone.
Referencing
You MUST use the Harvard Referencing Format for all referencing, both in-text citations
and final list of references. Go to www.studynet.herts.ac.uk/go/case and use the Academic
Skills ‘Referencing’ materials.
Layout Specification
Margins: Left Margin 3.5cms Bottom Margin 3.5cms
Right Margin 2.0cms Top Margin 2.0cms
Font Times New Roman Size 12 or Arial Size 11
Spacing 1.5 point spacing
Pagination Sequentially numbered in Arabic numerals.
Typeface: Top right of Page
Headings / Emboldened not underlined.
Subheadings All headings should have section numbers
Justification: Left justified or central justified
Footer: Every page should contain a footer in small font (9 point) stating:
“University of Hertfordshire Dissertation (year)”
Paper Good quality white 80 - 120 gsm. Printing should be double sided.
Title Page The Title Page template in the Appendix should be used.
This should not be paginated.
The final Dissertation should be saved in one single document in PDF format with the file
name consisted of "Given Name + Surname+ Student ID" (e.g. Xiangping Du 05103525) to
be submitted on StudyNet.
Printing and Soft Spiral Binding:
You can print and bind your dissertation by yourself using the LRC facilities (remember to buy
your own spiral binder), or using the university’s professional services:
 the Document Services / Reprographics on College Lane Campus
o Drop-in services (8:30 – 12:00 & 13:30 – 16:30 (3:30 on a Friday)
o 24 Hour Turn Around Email Service’: email the completed Dissertation in PDF to
projectprint@herts.ac.uk
 the Student Union Office (SU) on both College Lane and De Havilland Campus
o Drop-in service: Monday – Friday 10:00 – 16:00 (term time for De Havilland SU)
Click and Collect Service through: https://hertfordshire.su/your-services/printingservices/
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Please note:
 you need to print 2 copies, double sided;
 price for printing and binding depends on length, colour, etc.
 any page that needs to be single sided (e.g. cover page, content page,
acknowledgments) should have a blank page following it in the pdf file. If Document
Services do this for you, the cost is £3.00 per file.
8. Arrangement for Dissertation Submission

Identical copies of the final Dissertation need to be submitted: one electronic copy and
two spirally bound double sided printed copies.
8.1 Electronic Submission
The final Dissertation must be submitted to the relevant Dissertation module site on StudyNet
in a single PDF file saved by your "Given Name, Family Name, Student ID"(e.g.
Xiangping Du 05103525).
Prior to the final submission, you will be allowed to submit your Dissertation draft to
Turnitin to obtain formative feedback. This will enable you to submit the draft work,
receive a report and see the impact of your changes before the final submission.
Each final submission of the dissertation will be checked via Turnitin for plagiarism.
8.2 Hard Copy Submission
The two hard copies should be submitted to a designated room on the due date. You will
be communicated about the exact location for submission nearer the deadline.
Any early submission should be submitted to the Coursework Point. If you wish to post
your hard copies, the address is: Postgraduate Office, Room M015, de Havilland
Campus, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 9AB, United Kingdom.
(Please post early and allow plenty of time for delivery and mail them recorded
delivery/Internationally tracked).
8.3 Request for Extension
In exceptional circumstances, up to two weeks extension can be granted. Students will

need to complete the relevant form: Request for an Extension – Up to two weeks
(Appendix 6) with supporting evidence. A period of up to two weeks must be proposed
by the supervisor and authorised by both the Dissertation module leader and the Head of
Postgraduate Development.
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If an extension beyond two weeks is required, then the Serious Adverse Circumstances
(SAC) procedure will need to be followed. You must have valid reasons and sufficient
ground as outlined in Appendix 7 to be able to succeed in the application. The relevant
SAC application form can be found from. You will be granted a Deferral if your
application is successful.
Please note: that the application for 2 weeks extension and SAC is mutually exclusive and
you can only apply for one or the other.
8.4 Dissertation Marking and Late Submissions

Your finished work will undergo a rigorous assessment process. It will be assessed by your
supervisor and a second marker who will mark it independently using the Dissertation Mark
Sheet (Appendix 9) as guided by the PG Dissertation Assessment & Grading Criteria Matrix
(Appendix 10), before agreeing a final grade. Therefore, it is vital for you to understand what
merits your Dissertation will be assessed on.
Samples of Dissertations from each subject area will be sent to external examiners whose role
is to confirm that the quality of a Master’s Dissertation at the University of Hertfordshire
Business School is comparable with those of other UK Universities. The relevant board of
examiners will confirm the final grade.
Late Submission Penalties
Late submissions will be penalised. First attempt and deferred Dissertations submitted up to
one week late after the published deadline will be capped at the pass grade of 50%, and any
further late submission will be awarded a grade of ZERO.
Referred Dissertations submitted after the published deadline will be awarded a grade of
ZERO unless an extension has been granted.
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9. Dissertation Results: Pass, Referral, Deferral and Repeat

Dissertation results will be published at the end of October for September submission, and
the end of June for April submission (see Appendix 11 for more information on what
happens after the submission). Specific dates will be published on StudyNet nearer the time.
Pass (P): Passed Dissertations

A Pass is when your Dissertation is graded at 49.5% and above.
Congratulations, you have passed your Dissertation and successfully completed your
Master’s degree and you will be able to graduate in the forthcoming December or September.
Please refer to Appendix 12 for how to calculate your Master’s award.
Referral (FREFC): Referred Dissertations
Dissertations marked between 20% and 49% are ‘referred’ (given an FREFC grade). This
means the student will get another chance to submit, without paying any further fee. Referred
Dissertation students are entitled to 2 hours of supervision meetings with their supervisor to
receive clear and constructive feedback and action plans in order to revise accordingly.
Students must agree a schedule of when and how these meetings will take place. A record of
meetings must be kept and attached to the Dissertation as an Appendix.
Referred Dissertation students should not change the research topic or ethics number, but
may need to complete EC2 if there are any changes of ethics.
Referred Dissertation students do not have to stay in the UK (they can if they want to) and
can communicate with their supervisors via email, Skype or through StudyNet. However,
they must complete a Tier 4 Authorised Absence Form (Appendix II) and obtain approval
from their progamme tutor as well as acknowledge their Supervisor and module leader.
The final grade of a FREFC Dissertation will be capped at 50%.
Deferral (DEFC): Deferred Dissertations

Students with deferred Dissertations are those who have successfully applied for Serious
Adverse Circumstances (SAC) which impacted on their original progress and could not
submit their Dissertations at the expected submission date. Deferred Dissertations are
normally submitted at the next available submission date, the following September or April.
Students may still be able to obtain support from their supervisor if they have remaining
supervision meetings outstanding, or as kindly agreed by their supervisor. However, if the
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student is deferred at a late stage and all support, including the seven supervisory meetings,
have already taken place, then the student can no longer expect any further support.
Deferred Dissertation students are not expected to stay in the UK (they can if they want to).
The final grade of a DEFC Dissertation will NOT be capped at 50%.
Repeat (FREN): Re-registered Dissertations
If a Dissertation is graded below 20% (given a FREN grade) for their first attempt or deferred
Dissertation, or students fail their referred Dissertations, the student must re-enrol and pay to
repeat the Dissertation module if they would like to obtain a Master’s degree. This means, the
student will need to start from scratch with a new topic and a new supervisor.
Students with a FREN are repeating the whole module and therefore should be in the UK. If
they are tier 4 students they will have to swipe attendance and also attend the School’s
monthly sign in sessions and the University’s visa check sessions.
The final grade of a FREN Dissertation will be capped at 50%.
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10. Recommended Reading List

The list of recommended reading shows some general research related book resources that
you may find useful. You need to do your own content research with respect to the texts, e.g.
books, journals, reports, trade articles, and news items, in your own specific topic area.
Adams, J., Khan, H. R. A. and Raeside, R. (2014) Research Methods for Business and Social
Science Students 2nd edn. New Delhi: SAGE Publications
Bell, J. (2010) Doing Your Research Project 5th edn. Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill Education
Bell, J. and Waters, S. (2014) Doing Your Research Project: A Guide For First-Time
Researchers 6th edn. Maindenhead: McGraw-Hill Education
Bryman, A. (2016) Social Research Methods 5th edn. Oxford: Oxford University Press
Bryman, A. and Bell, E. (2015) Business Research Methods 4th edn. Oxford: Oxford
University Press
Cooley, L. and Lewkowicz, J. (2006) Dissertation Writing in Practice: Turning Ideas into
Text Hong Kong: Hong Kong University Press
Cooper, D. R. and Schindler, P. S. (2008) Business Research Methods 10th edn. International
edn. New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin
Courtney, M. and Du, X. (2015) Study Skills for Chinese Students London: SAGE
Creswell, J. W. and Plano-Clark, V. L. (2011) Designing and Conducting Mixed Methods

Research 2nd edn. Thousand Oaks, Calif: SAGE
Crowther, D. and Lancaster, G. () Research Methods: A Concise Introduction to Research in

Management and Business Consultancy 2nd edn. Oxford: Elsevier
Feak, C.B. and Swales, J.M. (2009) Telling a Research Story: Writing a Literature Review
Michigan: University of Michigan Press
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Fisher, C.M. and Buglear, J. (2010) Researching and Writing a Dissertation: An Essential
Guide for Business Students 3rd edn. Harlow: Financial Times Prentice Hall
Flick, U. (eds.) (2014) The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Data Analysis London: SAGE
Publications
Hammond, M. and Wellington, J. (2012) Research Methods: The Key Concepts New York: Routledge
Ltd
Horn, R. and Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (2009) Researching and
Writing Dissertations: A Complete Guide for Business and Management Student London:
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development
Gibbs, G. 2007, Analysing Qualitative Data London: SAGE
Grbich, C. 2013, Qualitative Data Analysis: An Introduction, 2nd edn. Los Angeles: SAGE
Guthrie, G. (2010) Basic Research Methods, New Delhi: Sage Publications
Jesson, J., Matheson, L. & Lacey, F.M. (2012) Doing Your Literature Review: Traditional
and Systematic Techniques Los Angeles: SAGE
Oliver, P. (2012) Succeeding With Your Literature Review: A Handbook for Students 1st edn.
Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill EducatioN
Riley, M. 2000, Researching and Writing Dissertations in Business and

Management London: Thomson Learning
Saunders, M., Lewis, P. and Thornhill, A. (2012) Research Methods for Business Students. 6th edn.
Harlow: Pearson Education Ltd.
Saunders, M. and Lewis, P. (2012) Doing Research in Business and Management: An

Essential Guide to Planning Your Project Harlow: Financial Times Prentice Hall
Treiman, D.J. (2014), Quantitative Data Analysis: Doing Social Research to Test Ideas 2nd
edn. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass
Wallace, M. and Wray, A. (2016) Critical Reading and Writing for Postgraduates 3rd edn.
London: SAGE
Walliman, N. S. R. (2010) Research Methods London: Routledge Ltd
Waters, C.D.J. (2011) Quantitative Methods for Business 5th edn. Harlow: Financial Times
Prentice Hall
26 | P a g e
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Appendices
Appendix 1: PG Dissertation First Information Form

Family Name : Given Name :
Student ID No. : Student Email :
Programme : Dissertation :
Module Leader
Dissertation Topic
Please provide a brief outline of your Dissertation research subject topic. This should state the
topic area and briefly, the research question, aim and objectives, plus key literature sources,
proposed research strategy and proposed methods.
If you have already discussed this topic with a member of staff and they provisionally agreed to be
your supervisor please include their name:
Please note that there is no guarantee that the member of staff mentioned above can be allocated due to their
availability and other work contestants.
Indicate the subject area that your Dissertation primarily focuses on (tick 1 box only):
Accounting & Finance Marketing
Project Management or Information Systems Economics
Human Resource Management Tourism
Strategy OR/ Management Science
Signature: Date:
This section is be used by the Dissertation module leader and Head of Subject group
Supervisor: 2nd Marker:
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Appendix 2: Request for Absence – Tier 4 Students

Guidance notes for students:
 You do not need to request absence if the absence is for less than one week.
 Where possible, a request for absence should be submitted at least five (5) working days in
advance of the absence.
 Any absence should not impact on your original course completion date – you will still be
expected to complete your studies by your original course end date.
 DO NOT use this form if you are returning to your home country to complete all studies
from overseas. Contact the Tier 4 Compliance team in this situation –
tier4compliance@herts.ac.uk
 If you wish to be absent during Reading weeks, Visa Check and Induction week, you must
submit an Absence request form and it must be authorised by your programme leader.
 If you are working on your dissertation and do not want to come onto campus, you must
submit an absence request and the absence must be authorised.
 If your programme leader does not authorise the absence, you must attend all studies as
normal.
 The University reserves the right to withdraw sponsorship of your Tier 4 visa if you take
unauthorised absence.
 Please remember to start swiping your ID card again as soon as you are back on campus.
 If you have any queries relating to your Tier 4 visa, you should seek advice from the
International Student Support team based in the Student Centre – iss@herts.ac.uk
 This form does not replace the Serious Adverse Circumstance (SAC) process.
How to request absence of one week or more:

1) Complete Section 1 below.
2) Take / email the form to your programme leader (tutor) or supervisor.
3) The programme leader will complete Section 2 and confirm if the absence has been
granted (or not).
4) Return the fully completed and signed form to your School Administration Office.
SECTION 1 (student to complete)
Name: ID number:
Email: Contact number:
Course:
Start and end dates of absence:
Reason for absence

Family emergency overseas Parental (maternity/paternity)
Holiday/vacation Renew overseas residency
Cultural/religious Family celebration (including weddings)
Medical Data collection overseas
Other (give details)
Signature: Date:
SECTION 2: ACADEMIC APPROVAL (staff use only)

 Can student still complete on time if absence is granted? YES / NO (please circle)
 Is the absence for the above dates approved? YES / NO (please circle)
…………………………………… ………………………………… …………………………
Programme Leader Name Signature Date
(Block capitals)
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Appendix 3: Dissertation Log
UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE
DISSERTATION LOG
This is an important document, which will need to be attached to your Dissertation. This log
will be taken into consideration when awarding the final mark for the Dissertation.
Student Name: Student ID:
Supervisor’s Dissertation
Name: Module
Leader’s Name:
Dissertation Topic:
SECTION A: MONITORING STUDENT DISSERTATION PROCESS
The plan below is to be agreed between the student & Supervisor and will be monitored
against progress made at each session.
Milestone/Deliverable Date
Activity
Final details of proposal to be agreed between student and
supervisor
Suggest milestones are:
1 Refine initial proposal
2 Complete literature review
3 Complete methodology section
4 Complete data collection
5 Complete data analysis
6 Complete conclusions and recommendations
7 Submit draft for feedback
SECTION B: ETHICS
Ethics form protocol number (Primary Research Only): _________________

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SECTION C: RECORD OF MEETINGS
The expectation is that students will meet their supervisors up to seven times and these
meetings should be recorded.
Meeting 1
Date of Meeting
Progress Made
Agreed Action
Student Signature
Supervisor’s
Signature
Meeting 2
Date of Meeting
Progress Made
Agreed Action
Student Signature
Supervisor’s
Signature
Meeting 3
Date of Meeting
Progress Made
Agreed Action
Student Signature
Supervisor’s
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Signature
Meeting 4
Date of Meeting
Progress Made
Agreed Action
Student Signature
Supervisor’s
Signature
Meeting 5
Date of Meeting
Progress Made
Agreed Action
Student Signature
Supervisor’s
Signature
Meeting 6
Date of Meeting
Progress Made
Agreed Action
Student Signature
Supervisor’s
Signature
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Meeting 7
Date of Meeting
Progress Made
Agreed Action
Student Signature
Supervisor’s
Signature
SECTION D: COMMENTS ON MANAGEMENT OF PROJECT
(Optional - to be completed at the end of the Dissertation process)
Signature of Student: Date:
Signature of Supervisor: Date:
Ethics Protocol Number (Primary Research Only):
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Appendix 4: Front Cover Page

This must be put at the front of all Dissertations submitted
DISSERTATION TITLE:
Programme:
Dissertation Module Code and Title:
Dissertation Module Leader:
Student’s Family Name:
Students Given Name(s):
Student Number:
Supervisor:
I have submitted an identical version of this Dissertation on StudyNet
YES NO
(Please tick as appropriate: if NO explain why. Your hardcopies may not be accepted until
electronic submission is confirmed.)
Ethics number (for primary research only): ...............................................

This dissertation is strictly confidential Yes / No
For Module Leader Use Only
Internal Moderator:
First Copy to Supervisor Second Copy to internal

moderator
Only one copy handed in:
Date of Submission:
Extension Agreed:
Agreed Submission Date:
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Appendix 5: Title Page
University of Hertfordshire Business School
<Programme Title>
<Dissertation Title>
Author :
Student Number :
Supervisor :
Submission Date :
Final Word Count :
Ethics Number (Primary Research Only):
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Appendix 6: Request for an extension – up to two weeks
Students must first gain the support of the supervisor by completing the form below. The
request must then be signed by the supervisor and then authorised by the Dissertation module
leader and the Head of Postgraduate Development. A copy of the final signed form will be
submitted, together with relevant supporting documentation (e.g. medical certificate,
employer letter), to the Head of Postgraduate Development.
Applications without supporting evidence will normally be refused.

Applications made after the date of submission will normally be refused.
Student Name:
Student No.:
Programme Code:
Dissertation supervisor:
Reasons for request:
Signed:
Date:
(Supervisor)
Signed:
Date:
(Dissertation Module leader )
Signed:
(Associate Dean - Postgraduate Development) Date:
Approval granted: YES / NO Date for submission:
Students: Insert a copy behind the title page of both copies of your Dissertation on
submission. Supervisors and Dissertation module leaders please keep a copy for your
records.
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Appendix 7: Serious Adverse Circumstances (SAC) Guidelines
Guidelines to Students, Module Boards of Examiners and School Assessment

Panels on Dealing with Students’ Serious Adverse Circumstances
What are serious adverse circumstances
Principles
Process for submission of serious adverse circumstances in relation to assessed work
Serious adverse circumstances and attendance at lectures/seminars etc
Serious adverse circumstances and non-attendance at an examination/in class test
Serious adverse circumstances and failure to submit coursework by the due date
Serious adverse circumstances and attendance at an examination/in class test or the submission of coursework
Serious adverse circumstances and students with a disability
Table of serious adverse circumstances and actions
1. What are ‘serious adverse circumstances’?

'Serious adverse circumstances' are significant circumstances beyond a student’s control that would have affected the student’s ability to
perform to their full potential if they were to submit or attend assessments at the appointed time. The table below sets out guidance to be
followed by Assessment Panels and Module Boards. It provides as many examples as possible of the types of circumstance that the University
considers to be sufficiently serious, along with some examples of what would not be sufficient.
Associated guidance is issued to all students, through either student handbooks or the A-Z Guide on StudyNet
2. Principles
(a) The University allows students to draw to its attention any significant circumstances beyond the student’s control that mean their
performance would have been prejudiced if they were to submit or sit an assessment at the appointed time in the academic session.
However, if a student, despite such circumstances, decides to sit/submit an assessment, the University will not accept a claim
that the student has serious adverse circumstances in respect of the assessment. This principle is in line with the University’s aim
of making its students fit for the world of employment; one such skill involves taking responsibility for one’s own decision making. This
principle operates subject to two highly exceptional circumstances set out in paragraph 7 below.
(b) Programme staff will advise students on what an Assessment Panel/Module Board is likely to regard as a serious adverse
circumstance, but the decision whether to sit/submit or not to sit/submit will lie with the student alone.
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(c) Where a claim of serious adverse circumstances is submitted by a student, the following principles will be adhered to by the
Assessment Panels and Module Boards:
(i) The University will treat information about a student’s serious adverse circumstances with
sensitivity and respect regardless of the level of perceived severity.
(ii) The University will treat a student’s reported circumstances with as much confidentiality
as practically reasonable. In very sensitive circumstances, a student may request that the
circumstances are only disclosed to the Chair of the Assessment Panel, the Chair of the
Module Board and the external examiners (UPR AS 14 C2.7.6).
3. Process for submission of serious adverse circumstances in relation to assessed work

If there is a serious adverse circumstance that has affected an assessment(s) of a student, the student must communicate details to the
University, using the form provided by the School, with appropriate evidence. All Schools should have a system of recording the receipt of such
forms and evidence, and acknowledging receipt to the student. The details must be submitted to the Module Board, normally through the
designated programme administrative office or Programme Administrator, prior to any meeting of the Board as described in the University’s
Policies and Regulations (UPR AS14 paragraph C2.7; AS12 Appendix I, paragraph 5.4.2; and AS/C/6.1 Appendix II). Students are informed
that submission should be no later than 10 working days before the meeting of the Board, but where the relevant assessment is within 12
working days of the Module Board, any serious adverse circumstances must be notified no later than 2 working days after the assessment.
4. Serious adverse circumstances and attendance at lectures/seminars etc.

If students are required to attend a lecture, seminar, practical or other types of timetabled class and they are unable to do so due to illness, they
must self-certify to this effect. If, however, the illness extends beyond 7 successive working days and attendance is required, students should
obtain a medical certificate verifying that they are not fit to attend.
5. Serious adverse circumstances and non-attendance at an examination/in class test

If a student is not sufficiently fit to attend an examination/in class test they should notify the appropriate staff in their School before the
scheduled start time, and their doctor or other registered medical professional/counsellor (where appropriate) as soon as possible. It is
important to note that the University Medical Practice is not prepared to give retrospective certification after the date of the examination/in class
test. Certification can only be provided if a doctor or nurse has actively consulted a person during their illness.
6. Serious adverse circumstances and failure to submit coursework by the due date
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If a student is unable to submit coursework by the due date, in the first instance, they should apply to the designated member of staff for the
programme, for an extension (if available). Once the period for extensions has expired, students must complete a serious adverse
circumstances form following the procedure set out in para 3 above.
7. Serious adverse circumstances and attendance at an examination/in class test or the submission of coursework
Except in the two circumstances outlined below, students who sit/submit an assessment deem themselves to be sufficiently able to undertake
the assessment and cannot later claim to have suffered ‘serious adverse circumstances’ that explain poor performance.
Exceptions:
(i) where at the time of sitting/submitting the relevant assessment, it is established that the student is not capable of understanding that their
performance was likely to be affected seriously by ill health and/or its treatment and this view is supported by a doctor/psychiatric
practitioner or the University’s Disability Services.
This ground will be a very rare occurrence as in most circumstances students will be in a position to decide whether their serious
adverse circumstances are likely to affect their performance in assessments. Examples may include, death of a close family member
within a day or so of the examination/in class test etc; being involved in a serious car accident on the way to an examination and
suffering post traumatic stress; or being unaware of the likely effect of a serious mental illness on assessment performance.
The student will be required to lodge a claim of serious adverse circumstances using the normal procedures (para 3 above)
If the claim is upheld the original mark will be null and void. If the claim is not upheld the mark recorded will stand.
(ii) where a student suddenly becomes unwell during an examination or in-class test and they decide to leave without completing the
assessment. In this event, they must notify the invigilator before leaving the examination room of the serious adverse circumstances
which necessitate their leaving unless it is impractical to do so e.g. the student is unconscious, being violently sick etc).
If, having left the examination room, the student decides to rely on serious adverse circumstances and they submit a form requesting a
deferral, and their circumstances are approved, the original mark will be null and void. If the claim is not upheld the mark recorded will
stand.
8. Serious Adverse Circumstances and students with a disability
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(i) Whilst it is acceptable for Schools to accept evidence of a medical disability from a doctor, it is not appropriate for Schools to
accept a diagnosis of a specific learning difficulty without consulting Disability Services.
(ii) Where a School Assessment Panel (SAP) considers that a serious adverse circumstance is linked to a disability and the School
has received no information from Disability Services, the SAP should obtain the consent of the student in question to refer the
evidence to Disability Services.
(iii) Before accepting cases of serious adverse circumstances on the grounds of disability, Boards of Examiners should check with
Disability Services whether the evidence of disability provided by the student to the Board is satisfactory. This includes cases
where the student has alleged that they have not received appropriate support from Disability Services.
(iv) Students submitting serious adverse circumstances for a reason related to disability support should ask a member of Disability
Services for a written statement to support their claim.
(v) Disability Services may submit evidence on behalf of a student under exception (ii) paragraph 7 above where appropriate.
41 | P a g e
Main types of Serious Adverse Evidence required Action (levels Action (levels 6, 7)
Circumstance (SAC) reported 0,4,5) (if level 6 referral is allowed, the Board can use advice for levels
0,4 and 5)
1 Medical (serious – not a recognised Medical certificate Deferral Deferral.
disability). (self-certification for
Examples: broken limb, problem with the first 7 days of If, however, the student has acceptable serious
eyesight, influenza, vomiting or migraine at illness only if the policy adverse circumstances which prevent him/her
time of assessment, infectious condition. of the GP practice is from sitting the deferral until the same time in
Notes: not to issue medical the following academic session, the Programme
a. Influenza (‘flu’) does not refer to the certificates), or Board has discretion to offer Final
common cold or conditions with similar evidence from the Compensatory Credit with or without penalty (for
symptoms. Invigilator’s log. a total of 30 credits)subject to the limitations set
b. Some conditions may be able to be out in UPR AS14 D.4.1. NB the option of
accommodated by separate awarding Final Compensatory Credit does not
arrangements (eg. the use of an apply to the award of a University Certificate.
amanuensis for those with broken arms)
if they are reported before the cut-off date
for adjustments published on StudyNet.
2 Not applicable Not an acceptable SAC
Medical (minor). The following conditions are
considered to be minor ( unless, in the case
of an examination/in class test, the
symptoms are so bad on the relevant day
that the student is too unwell to attend
when the condition will be treated as serious
as in 1 above):
 Self limiting respiratory infections,

e.g. Cold, sore throat, earache,
cough, sinusitis.
 Other short term infections, e.g.
Cystitis, gastroenteritis.
 Asthma.
42 | P a g e
0,4 and 5)
 Mechanical pain such as low back
pain, sprains and tendonitis e.g.
Writer’s cramp / RSI
 Tension type headaches.
 Period pains.
 Irregular Irritable bowel syndrome.
 Hay fever.
 Stress or anxiety when this is
exclusively related to examinations.
0,4 and 5)
3 Disabled students
A diagnosis of a disability (as opposed to a Not applicable Not an acceptable Not an acceptable SAC
reason related to a diagnosed disability) is SAC
not valid grounds for a SAC.
(i) A reasonable adjustment, agreed through (i) Not applicable (i) Not an (i) Not an acceptable SAC
a Study Needs Agreement (SNA) more than acceptable SAC
4 weeks prior to the exam period is not an
acceptable SAC.
(ii) Late disclosure of a disability with valid (ii) Confirmation in (ii) Deferral (ii) As circumstance 1; the Module/Programme
reason /request for disability adjustment writing from a member Board will consider the seriousness of the
(after the cut-off date for agreeing of Disability Services condition and the extent of the student’s control.
adjustments published on StudyNet). that the SAC is valid.
Adjustments will only be made if failure to do
so would disturb other candidates and/or
endanger themselves if left in the main exam
room. Extra time will not be given.
The student has the choice of whether or
not to sit/submit; but if they decide to
sit/submit they cannot claim to have
serious adverse circumstances.
43 | P a g e
0,4 and 5)
(iii) Confirmation in (iii) Deferral (iii) As circumstance 1; the Module/Programme

(iii) Unforeseen effect of a disability – when writing from a member Board will consider the seriousness of the
the effect of a disability is not anticipated or a of Disability Services condition and the extent of the student’s control.
reasonable adjustment agreed through a that the SAC is valid.
SNA e.g. an epileptic seizure, unexpected
episode of ill mental health
4 Death in immediate family (grandparent, Death certificate, Deferral As circumstance 1; the Module/Programme
parent, sibling, child, grandchild, first cousin, additional information Board will consider the timing of the death, the
aunt, uncle, spouse, partner, parent-in-law) (location of funeral, responsibilities of the student and the closeness
or close friend within the semester (or for an any religious of the relationship.
extended time period in exceptional observance
circumstances). requirements for
mourning, etc.)
5 Attendance at a funeral at the time of the Death certificate, Deferral As circumstance 1; the Module/Programme
assessment. additional information Board will consider the timing of the death, the
(location of funeral, responsibilities of the student and the closeness
any religious of the relationship.
observance
requirements for
mourning, etc.)
6 Death of a relative or friend outside the Not applicable Not an acceptable SAC.
semester, or the funeral is not at same time
of assessment.
7 Serious illness in family (particularly where Medical certificate Deferral As circumstance 1; the Module/Programme
the student has duty of care, “family” defined Board will consider the timing of the illness, the
as circumstance 4) responsibilities of the student and the closeness
of the relationship.
8 Commitment outside of the student’s control As appropriate, (e.g. Deferral As circumstance 1; the Module/Programme
(e.g. emergencies, including unexpected letter from employer or Board will consider the seriousness of the event
loss of child care) on the date when the nursery). and the extent of the student’s control.
student is required to attend for an
assessment.
44 | P a g e
0,4 and 5)
9 Work commitments (part-time students only) As appropriate, (e.g. Deferral
(e.g. heavy workload at the time that an letter from employer).
assessment is due)
1 Serious transport problem (i.e. exceptional As appropriate, (e.g. Deferral As circumstance 1; the Module/Programme
0 circumstance such as a serious rail delay or copy of ticket, Board will consider the severity of the transport
road traffic accident) compensation slip from incident and the extent of the student’s control.
rail company)
1 Routine type, predictable or partly Not applicable Not an acceptable SAC
1 predictable transport problem (e.g. traffic
jams, a late train or bus, tyre puncture etc)
1 Misunderstood examination timetable Not applicable Not an acceptable SAC
2
1 Overslept Not applicable Not an acceptable SAC
3
1 Religious reasons, where not working is a Requests must be The University will make reasonable attempts to make adjustments
4 requirement (UPR GEN/A/5) notified to the to the assessment timetable. Deferral is an option where work is
University at least 2 proscribed on a particular day for a particular Faith Group. If there is
weeks in advance, with doubt as to whether work is proscribed then the University will be
appropriate evidence, guided by information given by the East of England Faiths Council
or by the deadline and the current Festivals appendix to Multicultural Matters. In all
published by the cases the University's decision is final. Boards of Examiners should
Examinations Office in consult the University Chaplaincy for guidance on acceptable
the case of religious circumstances (Chaplain@herts.ac.uk). For the 2012/13
examinations. academic session, a calendar of recognised proscribed days has
been issued.
1 Serious personal problems not medical (e.g. As appropriate (letter Deferral Deferral.
5 separation from spouse/partner, victims of from counsellor,
crime) within the semester. landlord, crime If, however, the student has further acceptable
reference number, serious adverse circumstances which prevent
etc.) him/her from sitting the deferral until the same
time in the following academic session, the
Programme Board has discretion to offer Final
Compensatory Credit without or without penalty
(for a total of 30 credits). NB the option of
45 | P a g e
0,4 and 5)
awarding Final Compensatory Credit does not
apply to the award of a University Certificate.
1 Financial Not applicable Not an acceptable SAC
6
1 International, National (and exceptionally Letter from the Deferral
7 regional or University*) sports events* University’s Director of
scheduled on the date(s) of an examination, Sport (David Connell
in-class test or a coursework to be completed d.b.connell@herts.ac.u
within a 3 - 48 hour time period. k)
1 Holidays Booking information Deferral. Only acceptable if the booking is made prior to acceptance
8 of the UH offer
1 Computer problems As appropriate (e.g. Not acceptable, As circumstance 1; the Module/Programme
9 memo from IH unless Board will consider the seriousness of the event
explaining the nature experienced by a and the extent of the student’s control.
of the problem) sufficiently large
group of students
2 Complaints about UH staff (e.g. supervision) Various (diary of Dealt with as appeals procedure.
0 missed meetings or
classes etc)
*Serious Adverse Circumstances will not normally be accepted for regional or University sports events but it lies within the sole discretion of the Director of
Sport to decide whether the circumstances are exceptional in the case of a regional or University sports event. The term ‘sports event’ includes the fixture and
attendance at any compulsory training session.
46 | P a g e
Appendix 8: SAC Application Form / Dissertation Deferral Request Form

Date received: CONFIDENTIAL
Notification of Serious Adverse Circumstances

affecting assessment
Please note that acceptance of Serious Adverse Circumstances does not allow the Module
Board of Examiners to change a grade, but only permits them to offer a deferral.
Please complete all sections of this form in black ink and PRINT all information (except your
signature).
This form must be completed and submitted to the HBS Information Point, or emailed to
the Assessment Process Co-ordinator, Esther Walker (e.walker3@herts.ac.uk), together
with your supporting evidence, by the published Serious Adverse Circumstance deadline.
Serious Adverse Circumstances will be considered by the School Assessment Panel (SAP).
Students are strongly advised to consult the document ‘Guidelines to Students, Module Boards
of Examiners and Faculty Assessment Panels on Dealing with Students’ Serious Adverse
Circumstances’ and their Programme Leader (or designate) before completing this form and
submitting it to HBS Information Point.
A receipt for this form (and supporting evidence submitted) may be obtained from HBS
Information Point. If you are concerned about the personal and sensitive nature of the
information, please tick the box below to request that the information is only disclosed to the
Chairperson and Clerk of the School, School Assessment Panel, the Chairperson of the Module
Board and the External Examiner(s):
Strictly Confidential (evidence should be submitted in a sealed envelope).
Student Forename(s) (Given name(s)): Student Surname (Family name):
Student ID number: School of Study: (e.g. Business, Humanities, Law)

(i.e. the 8 digit number on your ID card)
Programme of Study (Course): Course Code and Level:

(e.g. BSBUS and your level (level 4, 5, 6 or 7)
(i.e. BA (Hons) Education Studies)
Course Instance (e.g. BS2S): Programme Tutor:
Mode of study: Full time Part time Distance Sandwich

For Office Use Flagged received Flagged Outcome Student File
47 | P a g e
Modules affected by Serious Adverse Circumstances: List all modules you wish to be considered together with details of the assessment
Module Title (please state if semester A, Module Code Type of Assessment Date of exam / Did you attend
B, AB or for referral/deferral) e.g. coursework (c) including the exercise (title coursework the exam / submit
or code), exam (e), placement (p), attendance submission the assessment?
(a)
48 | P a g e
Evidence
Supplementary evidence from independent or third parties must be included to support your
submission. Evidence should indicate the time, nature and probable effect of the serious
adverse circumstances.
It is important that this SAC form is submitted by the deadline so that the School is aware
of your situation; a few days grace may be given for evidence to follow.
For guidance on the nature of evidence to be submitted please refer to the Guidelines to
Students on the Submission of Serious Adverse Circumstances. These guidelines are
available on StudyNet under Help and Support > EXAMS & AWARDS OFFICE >
Examinations > Candidate information > Serious Adverse Circumstances
Please give a brief explanation of how the serious adverse circumstances impacted on the
type of assessment (if you are submitting this in hard copy you may attach pages as necessary)
Evidence included: Yes Number of items of evidence included:

No
49 | P a g e
Disability
Is your submission disability related? If ‘yes’ has this been discussed with the UH
Disability Services department?
Yes
Yes
No
No
If you have not included evidence from Disability Services as part of your submission, do
we have your permission to discuss the content with a member of staff in Disability
Services if required in order to make a decision?
Yes
No
Please note if you do not give permission it might not be possible to get the information we
need in order to make a decision on your submission. In such circumstances, the Board
will not be able to uphold your Serious Adverse Circumstances.
Signature of student: Date:
Email:
Your application will be considered by the School Assessment Panel who will determine
the validity of your application and make a recommendation to the Board of Examiners.
The Board of Examiners will make the final decision regarding the outcome of your
application. The decision will be reflected in the grades awarded by the Board of
Examiners and published on your Student Record.
You will be notified of the outcome of your serious adverse circumstances application by
email.
Please ensure your student details are kept up to date.
50 | P a g e
Appendix 9: Dissertation Mark Sheet
For Supervisors and Second Markers Dissertation Assessment
Student ID This Dissertation is Confidential
YES NO
Student Name
Programme Supervisor –
Mark out of 100% /100
Dissertation Second Marker

Module Leader Mark out of 100% /100
Dissertation FINAL AGREED

Module Code MARK %
as a percentage
Supervisor Name
and Signature Secondary Research
Yes / No
Second Marker For Primary Research

Name and
Signature Ethics Protocol --------------------
Number
Please note:
 PASS is at 50 and above;
 FREFC (referral) is between 20 – 49;
 FREN (repeat) is 19 and below
Please keep a copy of this sheet for your own records.
51 | P a g e
Award a grade in % for each section to reach an overall mark

(Please see PG Dissertation Assessment & Grading Criteria Matrix in Appendix X)
Section Subsections Comments

Introduction Dissertation
Introduction and
and Research Context
(10 Marks)
Reflection =
20% Reflective chapter
(10 Marks)
Mark: /20
Literature Identification of
Review = appropriate/relevant
20% theory
Literature
Employed
Critical
assessment/review
Independence of
thought/ideas
Mark: /20
Method = Methodology
20%
Methods of Data
Collection
Mark: /20
Analysis = Analysis of data
20%
Discussion
Conclusion and
recommendations
Mark: /20
52 | P a g e
Structure = Logical Sequencing

20%
Writing Style
Referencing
Presentation
Mark: /20
Comments by Supervisor and Second Marker
Both supervisor and the second marker have achieved an agreed Mark
Yes / No
If ‘YES’ briefly explain how agreement was achieved

Or if ‘NO’ briefly explain the issues of contention
Third Marker and /or External Examiner’s comments on how the contentious issues
were resolved.
53 | P a g e
Appendix 10: PG Dissertation Assessment & Grading Criteria Matrix

Dissertation Introduction and Literature Review Research Method and Analysis Structure
Reflection (20%) (20%) Methodology (20%) (20%) (20%)
80-100 Outstanding Outstanding Outstanding Outstanding Outstanding
Outstanding Provides a very clear Provides a comprehensive, Demonstrates a significant Excellent ...Demonstrates Very well written in clear
and concise introduction wide ranging and in-depth ability to critically evaluate significant ability to analyse and concise manner with no
to the research issue or literature review and existing methodologies and data critically with very errors of syntax or
questions. Provides a demonstrates a thorough suggest new approaches to high levels of creativity, expression. Presents a well-
detailed and substantial understanding of key current research and/or originality and constructed argument, which
outline of the business/ theoretical concepts. professional practice; independence of thought. flows smoothly and
organisational context in Engages in a critically Employs a highly suitable Shows outstanding levels of coherently to a logical
which the research is informed debate of the methodology which is well accuracy, technical conclusion. The work is
carried out literature, Demonstrates a understood, well explained competence and presented to a very high
Demonstrates a very significant ability to and justified having organization, Demonstrates professional standard.
high level of reflection evaluate contrasting considered alternative a significant capacity to Referencing is
and of excellent insight viewpoints with a high methodologies, Uses develop a sophisticated and comprehensive, appropriate
into own learning. degree of independent appropriate data collection intellectually rigorous and rigorous.
thought. methods which are likely to argument based on a
capture data that is valid, sophisticated understanding
reliable and perhaps of relevant literature and of
extensive. the data, balancing
appropriately between data
and theory in the
development of the analysis
and conclusions. Makes
suitable rrecommendations
(if appropriate) and
limitations are recognised.
54 | P a g e
70-79 Excellent Excellent Excellent Excellent Excellent

Provides a clear and
Excellent concise introduction to Provides a comprehensive Demonstrates a significant Demonstrates a significant Well written in clear and
the research issue or literature review and ability to thoroughly evaluate ability to analyse data concise manner with no
questions. Provides a demonstrates a thorough existing methodologies and critically with high levels of errors of syntax or
detailed outline of the understanding of key suggest alternative approaches creativity, originality and expression. Presents a well-
business/ organisational theoretical concepts. to current research and/or independence of thought. constructed argument which
context in which the Engages in a critically professional practice. Demonstrates high levels of flows smoothly and
research is carried out informed debate of the Employs a very suitable accuracy, technical coherently to a logical
literature, Demonstrates a methodology, which is well competence and conclusion. The work is
very good ability to evaluate understood, well explained organization, Demonstrates presented to a high
Demonstrates a high contrasting viewpoints with and justified having an ability to develop a professional standard.
level of reflection and a high degree of considered alternative sophisticated and Referencing is
excellent insight into independent thought. methodologies, Uses intellectually rigorous comprehensive, appropriate
own learning. appropriate data collection argument based on a and rigorous.
methods which are likely to thorough understanding of
capture data that is valid, relevant literature and of the
reliable and perhaps data, balancing
extensive. appropriately between data
and theory in the
development of the analysis
and conclusions. Makes
suitable rrecommendations
limitations are recognised.
55 | P a g e
60-69 Very good Very good Very good Very good Very good
Very Good Provides a good Provides an extensive Demonstrates a good ability to Demonstrates a good ability Well written in clear manner
introduction to the literature review and evaluate existing to analyze data critically and with few errors of syntax or
research issue or demonstrates a good methodologies and suggest creatively and with a degree expression. Presents a
questions. Provides a understanding of key alternative approaches. of independence of thought. generally well-constructed
good general outline of theoretical concepts. Employs a suitable Demonstrates good levels of argument, which flows
the business/ Engages in an informed methodology, which is accuracy, technical smoothly and coherently to a
organisational context in debate of the literature, understood, explained and competence and logical conclusion. The work
which the research is justified having considered organization, Demonstrates is presented to a high
carried out alternative methodologies. an ability to develop a standard.
Demonstrates a very good Uses appropriate data logical and coherent Referencing is
Demonstrates a high ability to evaluate collection methods which are argument based on a good comprehensive, appropriate
level of reflection and contrasting viewpoints with likely to capture data that is understanding of relevant and rigorous.
very good insight into a degree of independent valid and reliable. literature and of the data,
own learning. thought, balancing appropriately
between data and theory in
the development of the
analysis and conclusions.
Makes suitable
recommendations (if
appropriate) and limitations
are recognised.
56 | P a g e
55-59 Good Good Good Good Good

Provides a good Provides a good literature Demonstrates ability to Demonstrates ability to Written in satisfactory
Good introduction to the review which covers the evaluate possible analyse and synthesise manner Presents an argument
research issue or main themes addressed and methodologies and employ information, and to integrate which for the most part is
questions. Provides an demonstrates an suitable approach. Data theory to data, logically structured. The
outline of the understanding of key collection methods generally recommendations (if work is presented to an
business/organisational theoretical concepts. appropriate, data generally appropriate). Limitations acceptable standard, but there
context in which the Engages in a debate of the valid and reliable. recognised. are ways in which it could be
research is carried out. literature, Demonstrates an improved.
ability to evaluate
Demonstrates good contrasting viewpoints with Referencing is appropriate
level of reflection and a degree of independent and generally follows
insight into own thought. accepted conventions.
learning.
50-54 Satisfactory...Provides Satisfactory….Provides a Satisfactory…Demonstrates Satisfactory….Demonstrate Satisfactory… Written in a

a satisfactory literature review which basic but adequate s at least some ability to generally satisfactory manner
Satisfactory introduction to the covers the main themes understanding of methodology analyse and synthesise but with some errors of
research issue or addressed and demonstrates and chooses relevant information, and to integrate syntax or expression.
questions. Provides an an understanding of key approach. Data collection theory to data, Presents an argument which
outline of the business/ theoretical concepts. methods generally recommendations (if is generally reasonably
organisational context in Engages in a debate of the appropriate, data generally appropriate). Some structured. The work is
which the research is literature, Demonstrates at valid and reliable. limitations recognised. presented to an acceptable
carried out least some ability to standard, but there are ways
evaluate contrasting in which it could be
Demonstrates some viewpoints. improved.
reflection and
satisfactory insight into Referencing is appropriate
own learning. and generally follows
accepted conventions, though
with some minor errors and
omissions.
57 | P a g e
40-49 Weak Weak Weak Weak Weak

Provides a limited
Fail introduction to the Provides a limited literature Demonstrates a limited ability Demonstrates a limited Poorly written with far too
research issue or review and demonstrates to evaluate existing ability to analyze data with many errors of syntax or
questions. Provides a some understanding of key methodologies and suggest little independence of expression. Presents an
limited outline of the theoretical concepts. Does alternative approaches. thought. Demonstrates poor argument, which for does not
business/ organisational not engage in a debate of the Employs a suitable levels of accuracy, technical flow coherently to a logical
context in which the literature and demonstrates a methodology which is not competence and conclusion. The work is
research is carried out. limited ability to evaluate well understood, explained or organization, Demonstrates presented in an unsatisfactory
contrasting viewpoints with justified having considered a limited ability to develop standard.
little evidence independent alternative methodologies. an argument or to balance Referencing is not to the
Demonstrates some thought, Uses data collection methods appropriately between data required standard.
reflection and limited which may or may not capture and theory in the
insight into own data that is valid and reliable. development of the analysis
learning and conclusions. Makes
limited or recommendations
limitations may be
recognised.
58 | P a g e
20 – 39 Inadequate Inadequate Inadequate Inadequate... Inadequate….
Clear Fail Provides a very limited Does not engage with the Demonstrates a no ability to Demonstrates no ability to Poorly written. Lacks any
introduction to the relevant literature and evaluate existing analyze data and no logical argument. The work
research issue or demonstrates a very limited methodologies and suggest independence of thought. is poorly presented.
questions. Provides a knowledge of the key issues. alternative approaches. Does Demonstrates very poor Referencing is not to the
very limited outline of Demonstrates little not employ any particular levels of accuracy, technical required standard.
the business/ appreciation of the existence methodological approach and competence and
organisational context in of alternative viewpoints provides no justification or organization, Demonstrates
which the research is and little evidence of a explored alternative no ability to develop an
carried out capacity for independent methodologies. Uses data argument or to balance
thought. collection methods, which are appropriately between data
Demonstrates limited inappropriate or incomplete. and theory in the
reflection and no insight development of the analysis
into own learning. and conclusions. Makes
limited or recommendations
(if appropriate) and does not
recognise limitations.
1 – 19 Nothing of merit Nothing of merit Nothing of merit Nothing of merit Nothing of merit
Little or No introduction to the Demonstrates little or no Demonstrates little or no Demonstrates no evidence Very poorly written work,
Nothing of research issue or knowledge of the relevant knowledge of methodology of critical thought or data lacking structure, paragraph
merit questions. No outline of literature. No evidence of and/or method. analysis. Presents an /signposting. Many
the business/ understanding of the key incoherent argument. inaccuracies in spelling &
organisational context in issues or of their capacity grammar. Referencing is
which the research is for individual thought. inadequate.
carried out
No reflection and no
insight into own
learning.
59 | P a g e
Appendix 11: What Happens After the Formal Submission

SEPTEMBER 2019 SUBMISSSION: Dissertation Results will be published in your student record end of October 2019
FREN
FREFC
P
Results: between 20 and Results: 50⁺ Results: below 20
49
CONGRATULATIONS, you have
Sorry, it’s a fail, referred in coursework (Dissertation). Sorry, it’s a fail, re-enrol.
passed！
What do I do What do I do What do I do
next? next? next?
Contact your Supervisorfor feedback and action plan on your You will be sent an email in July 2020 advising you of your
first submission and revise accordingly Transcripts / Results for your Master’s
award will be available in October 2019 options to
 Your research topic and ethics number cannot be change, 1) accept an interim award based upon the number of
but if there will be any changes of ethics, please  Collect in person - details will be
emailed closer to the time. credits you have achieved so far, or
complete EC2
2) pay and re-register to repeat starting in September 2020
 You are entitled to 2 hours' supervision meetings with  Nominate someone to collect for you
your Supervisor (face-to-face or video). You and your – email bspgadmin@herts.ac.uk o You will need a new research topic, new ethics
Supervisor must agree a schedule of when and how these your full name, student id number approval and will be allocated a new Supervisor
meetings will take place. A record of meetings (including and the name of the Nominee. o To extend your visa or apply for a CAS, please
the agreement) must be keptand attached to your  If not collected it will be posted to contact International Student Support team on
Dissertation as an Appendix. your home address as currently listed iss@herts.ac.uk
Next
on Student Record, so please update o Please note, your repeated Dissertation result will
Submit your referred Dissertation in April 2020 your contact details. be capped at 50
Your degree certificate will be posted
Next directly to your home address on your You need to confirm your choice with
Student Record in November 2019. Next
Publication of Dissertation Results in June 2020 Please ensure your home address is
updated. The Exams & Award Office is Submit your repeat Dissertation in April/September 2021
P(50)
FREN
no longer offer the collection of

certificates. Next
60 | P a Sorry,
g e it’s a fail, re- CONGRATULATIONS, you Attendance of the Graduate Ceremony
Publication of Dissertation Results in June/October 2021
enrol. in December 2019can be registered via:
have passed your referral, but
http://www.herts.ac.uk/ceremonies.
your mark is capped at 50
61 | P a g e
APRIL 2020 SUBMISSSION: Dissertation Results will be published in your student record in June 2020
FREN*
FREFC*
P
Results: between 20 and 49 Results: 50⁺ Results: below 20
CONGRATULATIONS, you have

Sorry, it’s a fail, referred in coursework (Dissertation). passed！ Sorry, it’s a fail, re-enrol.
What do I do What do I do What do I do
next? next? next?
You will be sent an email in July 2021 advising you of your
Contact your Supervisorfor feedback on your first submission
options to
and revise accordingly
Transcripts / Results for your Master’s  accept an interim award based upon the number of
 Your research topic and ethics number cannot be change
award will be available in July 2020 credits you have achieved so far, or
 You are entitled to 2 hours' supervision meetings with your
 Collect in person in July 2020–  pay and re-register to repeat starting in September 2021
Supervisor (face-to-face or video). You and your
details will be emailed closer to the o You will need a new research topic, new ethics
Supervisor must agree when and how these meetings will time. approval and will be allocated a new Supervisor
take place. A record of meetings (including the agreement)
 Nominate someone to collect for you o To extend your visa or apply for a CAS, please
must be kept – email bspgadmin@herts.ac.uk contact International Student Support team on
your full name, student id number
iss@herts.ac.uk
and the name of the Nominee.
o Please note, your repeated Dissertation result will
Next  If not collected it will be posted to
your home address as currently listed be capped at 50
Submit your referred Dissertation in September 2020 on Student Record, so please update
your contact details. You need to confirm your choice with
Next bspgadmin@herts.ac.uk
Your degree certificate will be posted

directly to your home address on your Next
Publication of Dissertation Results in November 2020 Student Record in summer 2020. Please
ensure your home address is updated.
Submit your repeat Dissertation in April / September 2022
P(50)
The Exams & Award Office is no longer

FREN
offer the collection of certificates.

Next
Attendance of the Graduate Ceremony
Sorry, it’s a fail, re- in September 2020 be registered via:
enrol. CONGRATULATIONS, you Publication of Dissertation Results in June / October 2022
have passed your referral, but http://www.herts.ac.uk/ceremonies.
your mark is capped at 50
62 | P a g e
Appendix 12: How to Calculate your Master’s Award
Classification is based on Course Grade Average (CGA )

of the best 150 credits
requires
Masters Degree
180 credits
Pass
= CGA ≥ 49.5
If there is any compensated module, the classification is Commendation

based on the 'resulting CGA' (after the deduction of classification
compensation penalty) = CGA ≥ 59.5
Distinction
requires
Postgraduate Diploma 120 - 165
= CGA ≥ 69.5
credits
Classification is based on Course Grade Average (CGA )
of the best 120 credits
Postgraduate requires
Certificate 60-105 credits Awarded with no classification
Explanation of the Award of a Master’s Degree

You need 180 credits to be eligible for a Master’s degree. The Course Grade Average (CGA) used for classification purposes for a Master’s degree and based upon
the average of the best 150 credits achieved. Referred and repeat modules are capped at P(50) for the CGA calculation.
A maximum of 30 credits of failed modules may be compensated at the discretion of the Programme Board.
For each 15 credits of compensation, a penalty of - 2.5 is deducted from the CGA.
* compensation is not awarded if the resulting CGA (after applying the penalty) is less than 49.5
* compensation will not be awarded where a student has a module grade of Zero.
If you need further clarification, or discuss your options, please contact your Programme Tutor.
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2018-19 HBS PG STUDENT Dissertation Handbook - Final H Wells For PRINT

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2018-19 HBS PG STUDENT Dissertation Handbook - Final H Wells For PRINT

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UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE

Hertfordshire Business School

Postgraduate Dissertation Handbook

Academic Year: 2018 – 2019

Associate Dean - Postgraduate Development

1. What is a Master’s Dissertation?

Aim and Objectives of the HBS Master’s Dissertation

 To develop and apply postgraduate level skills of independent research, analysis,

A dissertation should include well-defined research questions or objectives, specified by

2. Contact Details for Dissertation Module Leaders

MA Human Resource Management BSHRMT Gary Pheiffer G.Pheiffer@herts.ac.uk

MBA (Master of Business Administration) MBA Phil Mason P.Mason3@herts.ac.uk

MSc Accounting and Financial Management BSAFM Edna Stan-Maduka E.I.Stan-maduka@herts.ac.uk

MSc Business Analysis and Consultancy BSBAC Soheil Davari S.Davari@herts.ac.uk

MSc Business and Organisational Strategy BSBOS Rachelle Andrews R.1.Andrews@herts.ac.uk

MSc Finance and Investment Baniking BSFIB Edward Lee e.y.lee@herts.ac.uk

MSc Global Business BSGB Paul Smith P.E.Smith@herts.ac.uk

MSc Project Management BSPM Marija Cubric M.Cubric@herts.ac.uk

3. Dissertation Schedule, Timetable and Deadlines

Semester A intake full-time students starting in September 2018

Task to complete Deadlines

Semester B intake Full-time Students Starting in January 2019

Task to complete Deadlines

Deadlines for part-time students:

4. Dissertation Progress and Management

February / March / April / May / June /

December/ October September / August July

4.1 Selecting and Agreeing a Dissertation Topic

In some programmes, completion of the Research Skills / Research Methods / Dissertation

4.2 Dissertation and Research Skills Module Details

MSc Global Business Paul Smith 7BSP0357 60 Sarah Khalil 7BSP1268 0

4.3 Supervision Management and Dissertation Development

Dissertation Module Leaders

6. Ethics Guidelines for Postgraduate Research

6.1 Primary Research

Ethics Approval Process:

Ethics Approval Guidelines

Verifying primary research

Using Online Survey Tools

6.2 Secondary Research

SECONDARY RESEARCH DECLARATION

Student’s Name : Student’s :

Student’s Signature : Date :

As an underlying principle, there must be a sense of openness and transparency when

Awareness and sensitivity

Any research involving human participants should be explained, as comprehensively as

 The nature and purpose of the research.

Things to make sure you do and you don’t

 Don’t cause unnecessary emotional stress, embarrassment or annoyance to

6.3 Academic Misconduct

Cheating: to attempt to gain an unfair, improper or dishonest advantage in the assessment

Plagiarism: the representation by an individual, whether intentionally or otherwise of

Collusion: evidence of the representation by an individual of work which he or she has

Other academic misconduct includes: falsification of data, duplication of assessed work

7. Dissertation Structure and Formatting

Printing and Soft Spiral Binding:

8. Arrangement for Dissertation Submission

8.1 Electronic Submission

8.2 Hard Copy Submission

8.3 Request for Extension

In exceptional circumstances, up to two weeks extension can be granted. Students will

8.4 Dissertation Marking and Late Submissions

Late Submission Penalties