Student Handbook 2025/26

Word Count

You are permitted a 10% margin above or below the stated word limit without penalty.
However, please note that markers will not assess any content beyond the 10% upper limit.

All words are counted except for the bibliography.
The following elements are included in the word count:

• Table of contents
• Appendices
• Footnotes and endnotes
• Abstract
• Wording under diagrams
• Words within graphs, tables, and diagrams

This list is not exhaustive. As a general rule: if it’s written, it counts — so use your words wisely.

While it may be difficult to meet the word count exactly, you should aim to get as close as possible without exceeding the maximum.
At Master’s level, students are expected to be able to edit and refine their work to meet word count requirements.

There is no minimum word count, but dissertations that are significantly shorter than the maximum may fail to fully address the topic and will be marked accordingly.

Title Page Requirements

Your submitted dissertation must include a top sheet (title page) with the following information only:

• Module number (e.g. IPLMxxx)
• Module title
• Final word count
• Student ID number (not your username — check MySIS or your student ID card)
• Your name must not appear anywhere on the dissertation.

You may include colour or graphics on the title page if you wish, but this is optional.

Formatting Recommendations

There is no official style guide for dissertations. However, we recommend the following formatting for clarity and consistency:

• Font: Use a standard, readable font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri
• Font size: 12-point for the main text
• Line spacing: Double-spaced
• Margins: Minimum of 2 cm on all sides
• Footnotes: No smaller than 10-point font, ideally in the same font as the main text