Indicative timetable for MFOM dissertations written “for purpose” (Regulation M12a)
This dissertation timetable has been developed by the Chief Examiner (Research Methods) to guide trainees with their planning when preparing and writing their dissertations.
FOM guidelines on writing a dissertation for purpose stress the importance of early planning by trainees, but a 2012 audit by FOM showed that the recommended timelines are seldom being followed. The late submission of dissertations is the principal reason that trainees’ CCT completion dates become delayed and the most common reason for issuing an unsatisfactory ARCP outcome.
Clearly, the responsibility to lay timely plans lies with each trainee. However, other stakeholders need to be more proactive at an earlier stage, including educational supervisors and ARCP panels. It is recommended that ARCP panels award trainees an outcome 2 or 3 if at ARCP review they fail to demonstrate that they have met the stages indicated in the timetable below.
Before starting the process, trainees should ensure that they have read the dissertation guide and the following:
- Question and Answer Sheet on Changes to the MFOM Dissertation [1]
- Regulations for Membership (MFOM) [2]
Indicative stage of training | Stage of dissertation | Activities |
During ST-3 | Prior to submission of outline protocol |
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End of ST-3 or beginning of ST-4 | Outline protocol |
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ST-4 and ST-5 | Data collection and analysis |
|
At the latest, by mid-way through ST5 | Drafting |
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ST-5 or ST-6 | Final drafting |
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Recommended to be before ST-6 | Assessment |
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ST-5 and ST-6 | Revision, resubmission |
|
Before CCT awarded |
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