University of Technology Sydney

22906 Thesis in Accounting

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Subject handbook information prior to 2025 is available in the Archives.

UTS: Business: Accounting
Credit points: 24 cp

Subject level:

Undergraduate

Result type: Grade and marks

Requisite(s): 22901 Accounting Research and Consulting Skills AND 22902 Financial Reporting, Capital Markets and Disclosure AND 22903 Contemporary Issues in Management Accounting Research AND 22908 Current Issues in Corporate Governance and Assurance
There are course requisites for this subject. See access conditions.

Description

This subject requires the student to produce a 20,000-word (maximum) thesis based on an original problem of a theoretical or applied nature. The thesis is expected to demonstrate the student's competency to conceptualise, conduct and present research in a scholarly and independent manner.

Subject learning objectives (SLOs)

Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
1. conceptualise, develop and defend a research proposal on an original problem of a theoretical or applied nature
2. carry out the proposed research in an independent and competent manner
3. present the research in a manner that demonstrates competencies in conducting research and presenting the outcomes in a scholarly manner.

Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)

This subject also contributes specifically to the following program learning objectives:

  • Apply critical thinking and analytical skills in the process of completing a research project (1.1)
  • Communicate research and its potential impacts effectively to a range of audiences (2.1)
  • Evaluate how research design and outcomes contribute to ways that others can work ethically and sustainably (3.1)
  • Apply the appropriate research method and analytical tools in addressing discipline specific problems (4.1)

Contribution to the development of graduate attributes

The Bachelor of Business (Honours) program provides an opportunity for advanced study in the disciplinary areas of accounting, finance and economics, management or marketing. The course provides the ideal foundation for students who plan to pursue a career in applied research in business and related professions, or who plan to undertake master's or doctoral research studies.

Teaching and learning strategies

This honours thesis subject is individually supervised with no formally scheduled class contact. Regular meetings are arranged between supervisor and student. The frequency of these meetings varies; however, meetings should occur every two weeks. Where possible, supervisors are assigned prior to the commencement of the first semester of study so as to facilitate the early delineation of research topics and development of a proposal.

Content (topics)

A research proposal is developed and implemented. The thesis involves the pursuit of an approved set of research objectives via an appropriate methodology to achieve these objectives. A significant component of the thesis involves the written presentation of the thesis research, with due attention being paid to professional and scholarly standards.

Assessment

Assessment task 1: Written Thesis (Individual)

Objective(s):

This addresses subject learning objective(s):

1, 2 and 3

This addresses program learning objectives(s):

1.1, 2.1, 3.1 and 4.1

Weight: 100%
Length:

15,000 - 30,000 words.

Criteria:

The marking criteria for the accounting honours thesis are divided into several categories, each focusing on specific aspects of the thesis. These categories assess the comprehensive ability of the student to conduct, present, and analyze research in a coherent and impactful manner. The criteria include:

1. Research Question
Clarity and Relevance: The research question should be clearly stated, specific, and relevant to the field of accounting. The work should demonstrate an understanding of the research problem and its significance.
Originality and Scope: The research question should reflect original thinking and appropriately scope the research.

2. Knowledge of Literature
Comprehensiveness: The review of literature should cover all relevant research, theories, and discussions in the field. It should demonstrate a thorough understanding of the current state of knowledge on your topic.
Critical Engagement: The literature review should not just summarize existing knowledge but critically engage with it, identifying gaps, debates, and areas for further research.

3. Methodology and Research Design
Appropriateness and Justification: The chosen methodology should be appropriate for the research questions posed. A rationale for the chosen methods must be provided, along with a discussion of their strengths and limitations.
Detail and Clarity: The methodology section should clearly explain how the research was conducted, including data collection and analysis methods, ensuring replicability.

4. Quality of Analysis and Conclusions
Depth and Insight: The analysis should go beyond descriptive reporting, providing deep insights and a thorough understanding of the data. It should demonstrate an ability to interpret results in the context of the literature and theoretical framework.
Validity of Conclusions: Conclusions should be logically derived from the data and analysis. They should reflect the evidence presented and tie back to the research questions and objectives.

5. Presentation of the Thesis
Organization and Coherence: The thesis should be well-structured, with a logical flow from introduction to conclusion. Each section should serve a clear purpose and contribute to the overall argument or narrative.
Writing Quality: The thesis should adhere to the highest standards of academic writing. It should be clear, concise, and free of grammatical or typographical errors. The use of tables, figures, and appendices should enhance clarity and not obscure it.

Minimum requirements

Students must achieve at least 50% of the subject’s total marks.