Research Methods

Module code: AF7502

This module provides a rigorous foundation in financial research design and empirical analysis equipping you with the conceptual and technical skills required for advanced research in finance.  You will develop the ability to formulate theoretically grounded and practically relevant research questions, informed by contemporary academic debates.  A central component of the module is the systematic review and critical synthesis of scholarly literature, enabling you to construct robust theoretical frameworks that underpin high quality empirical research and prepare you for independent investigation at postgraduate level.

A central feature of the module is the design and defence of a rigorous research methodology, including the selection and justification of appropriate data sources, data collection strategies, and analytical techniques aligned with the formulated research questions.  You are also introduced to R programming language for the analysis of financial data, covering cross-sectional, time-series, and panel data methodologies commonly employed in empirical finance research.  You apply advanced descriptive and inferential statistical techniques to real-world datasets, enduring methodological rigour, transparency, and reproducibility.  The module culminates in the development of a formally assessed dissertation research proposal, requiring you to design and justify a coherent research methodology, demonstrate feasibility and articulate the academic and practical contribution of their proposed study, thereby ensuring effective progression to the dissertation stage.