Aims and Fit of Module

This module provides students with the opportunity to explore in depth a valid topic in the field of the whole program leading to the MSc Actuarial Science degree, to facilitate students in developing independent research and presenting skills in scientific project that could be essential for their career.

Learning outcomes

A.	Apply existing knowledge to do meaningful research in the relevant field of Actuarial Science.
B.	Rationally assess the information, data, and materials at hand.
C.	Demonstrate good research skills i.e. including using information technology efficiently and effectively, reading academic publication, data collection and organisation, and critical analysis.
D.	Demonstrate and interpret meaningful research results in the dissertation report using academic English

Method of teaching and learning

Students will choose a research direction with a nominated supervisor at the end of semester 2. They will have the opportunity to gain some experience of potential research projects by the introduction sessions and workshop in the first month. After one month, students will propose a research topic and start to conduct research under supervision. The students will be required to discuss the research outline with supervisor(s) at the beginning of semester 3. The students will be required to regularly report their progression to supervisor(s) and obtain feedback.   
At the end of semester 3, the research results arising from the project will be subsequently reported by oral presentation and by a research dissertation. Normally, supervisor(s) and one internal examiner will be appointed to conduct marking of presentation and dissertation.