CD:
Suggest that you have a look at the subject coordinators for each subject. Most unis will have these people listed, so you can see what their background is, what level of experience they have had, and how you might improve your own networking by doing their subject and getting to know them.
Being able to put a research thesis on a potential employers desk at interview can be an advantage. A research project is all about finding more about a topic by finding relevant literature and putting the sometimes conflicting ideas together in a coherent way.
Having been at a few interviews, I would say that detailed and careful answers showing a depth of understanding is more important than simply having the ticket. So your overall subject choice will provide you a background in which you are better informed, and in which you will have a better chance at a job.
Progressive:
Sounds like a superhuman task; hats off to you. With a full time job and full time study all at happening at the same time, I hope the budgerigar and dog were not neglected.
SB