Assessment methods

During the six-month taught course, students will be expected to complete four essays and one oral presentation, the marks of which contribute 25% to the student’s final result. In March, after the end of the taught course, the student will undertake two three-hour written examinations and one four-hour data handling/practical examination, which together contribute 25% to the final result.

At the end of August, upon completion of the research project, the student will submit a dissertation, and will be orally examined on the project. The dissertation contributes 40% of the final mark, and the oral examination (viva) 10%. For each component of the course the pass mark is 50%.  For the complete course, a distinction is awarded for an overall mark of 70% or more, a merit for an overall mark of 60% - 70%, and a pass for an overall mark of 50% - 60%.