how to write research proposal for masters degree

How to Write a Research Proposal for a Masters Degree

• Rachel R.N.
• July 8, 2024
• How to Guides

Writing a research proposal for your master’s degree can seem like a daunting task. But don’t worry! This guide will walk you through the process step by step, using simple language and plenty of examples. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to create a strong research proposal that will impress your professors and set you up for success in your master’s program.

A research proposal is essentially a roadmap for your intended study. It outlines what you plan to research, why it’s important, and how you’ll go about doing it. Think of it as a blueprint for your academic journey – it shows your professors that you’ve thought carefully about your research and have a solid plan in place.

What You'll Learn

Why is a Research Proposal Important?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of writing your proposal, let’s talk about why it matters:

• It demonstrates your readiness for advanced study
• It shows your ability to think critically and organize your ideas
• It helps you clarify your research goals and methods
• It allows your professors to assess the feasibility and value of your project
• It can be used to secure funding or resources for your research

Now that we understand the importance, let’s break down the key components of a strong research proposal.

Your title is the first thing anyone will see, so it needs to be clear, concise, and attention-grabbing. It should give readers a quick insight into what your research is about.

Tips for crafting a good title:

• Keep it under 20 words
• Use key terms related to your research
• Make it specific to your study
• Avoid jargon or overly technical language
• Weak title: “A Study of Climate Change”
• Strong title: “The Impact of Rising Sea Levels on Coastal Communities in Florida: A 10-Year Projection”

2. Abstract

The abstract is a brief summary of your entire proposal. It should be no more than 250-300 words and cover the main points of your research, including your research question, methodology, and expected outcomes.

Key elements to include in your abstract:

• The main research question or problem
• The context or background of the study
• Your proposed methodology
• The significance of the research
• Expected results or contributions to the field

Example abstract: “This study aims to investigate the impact of social media use on the mental health of college students. Despite the growing concern about the negative effects of social media, there is limited research on its long-term psychological consequences. Using a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and in-depth interviews with 200 undergraduate students, this research will explore the relationship between social media usage patterns and reported levels of anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. The findings of this study will contribute to our understanding of the complex interplay between digital technology and mental well-being, potentially informing policies and interventions to promote healthier social media habits among young adults.”

3. Introduction

Your introduction sets the stage for your research. It should provide context for your study, clearly state your research question or problem, and explain why your research is important.

Key elements to include in your introduction:

• Background information on your topic
• The gap in current knowledge that your research will address
• Your main research question or hypothesis
• The significance of your study
• A brief overview of your methodology

Example: “In recent years, the rapid growth of e-commerce has transformed the retail landscape. While much attention has been paid to the impact on large retailers, less is known about how small, local businesses are adapting to this shift. This study aims to investigate how independent bookstores in urban areas are responding to the challenge of online competition.

Despite predictions of their demise, many independent bookstores have shown remarkable resilience. However, the strategies they use to compete with online giants like Amazon remain poorly understood. By examining the experiences of independent bookstore owners in three major U.S. cities, this research will shed light on the innovative approaches these businesses are using to survive and thrive in the digital age.

The main research question guiding this study is: What strategies are independent urban bookstores employing to compete with online retailers, and how effective are these strategies in ensuring their survival and growth?

To answer this question, I will conduct in-depth interviews with 30 bookstore owners and managers, analyze their financial data (where available), and observe customer behavior in these stores. This mixed-methods approach will provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing independent bookstores in the e-commerce era.

The findings of this study will not only contribute to our understanding of small business adaptation in the digital age but may also provide valuable insights for policymakers and business owners seeking to support the vitality of local retail ecosystems.”

4. Literature Review

The literature review demonstrates your familiarity with existing research in your field. It should summarize and critically analyze relevant studies, identifying gaps or controversies that your research will address.

Tips for writing an effective literature review:

• Organize studies thematically or chronologically
• Focus on recent research (usually within the last 5-10 years)
• Critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of key studies
• Identify gaps or contradictions in the existing research
• Show how your study will contribute to or extend current knowledge

Example (excerpt from a literature review on the impact of mindfulness meditation on stress reduction):

“Research on mindfulness meditation and stress reduction has grown significantly over the past decade. Kabat-Zinn’s (2003) seminal work established the foundation for Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programs, demonstrating significant reductions in self-reported anxiety and depression among participants. Building on this, Hoffman et al. (2010) conducted a meta-analysis of 39 studies, finding moderate effect sizes for anxiety (0.63) and mood symptoms (0.59) across various clinical populations.

More recent studies have begun to explore the neurobiological mechanisms underlying these effects. For instance, Hölzel et al. (2011) used MRI scans to show that an 8-week MBSR program led to increased gray matter density in the hippocampus, a region associated with learning, memory, and emotion regulation. Similarly, Creswell et al. (2016) found that mindfulness training was associated with reduced activity in the right amygdala in response to emotional stimuli, suggesting improved emotion regulation.

However, the field is not without its critics. Van Dam et al. (2018) argued that many studies on mindfulness suffer from methodological flaws, including small sample sizes, lack of active control groups, and reliance on self-report measures. They called for more rigorous research designs and standardized protocols to establish the true efficacy of mindfulness interventions.

Furthermore, while most research has focused on clinical populations or high-stress professionals, there is a notable gap in our understanding of how mindfulness practices might benefit college students, a population facing unique stressors related to academic performance, social adjustment, and future career prospects.

This study aims to address this gap by investigating the effects of a brief, online mindfulness intervention on stress levels among undergraduate students. By using both self-report measures and physiological indicators of stress (e.g., cortisol levels), we hope to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits of mindfulness practice for this population.”

5. Research Methodology

This section outlines how you plan to conduct your research. It should describe your research design, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques in detail.

Key elements to include in your methodology section:

• Research design (e.g., experimental, quasi-experimental, observational)
• Participants or sample (who will be studied and how they’ll be selected)
• Data collection methods (e.g., surveys, interviews, observations, experiments)
• Instruments or tools you’ll use (e.g., questionnaires, lab equipment)
• Data analysis techniques (e.g., statistical tests, qualitative coding methods)
• Ethical considerations

Example (for a study on the effectiveness of a new teaching method):

“Research Design: This study will employ a quasi-experimental design to evaluate the effectiveness of the flipped classroom model in improving student engagement and learning outcomes in high school science classes.

Participants: The study will involve 200 10th-grade students from four public high schools in the Denver metropolitan area. Two schools will implement the flipped classroom model (experimental group), while the other two will continue with traditional teaching methods (control group). Schools will be matched based on demographic characteristics and previous academic performance to ensure comparability.

Data Collection:

• Pre- and post-tests: Students in both groups will complete standardized science tests at the beginning and end of the semester to measure learning outcomes.
• Classroom observations: Trained researchers will conduct bi-weekly observations in both flipped and traditional classrooms using a structured observation protocol to assess student engagement and classroom dynamics.
• Student surveys: All participants will complete surveys at the midpoint and end of the semester to measure their perceptions of the learning experience, motivation, and self-efficacy.
• Teacher interviews: Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with the eight participating teachers (four in each condition) at the beginning, middle, and end of the semester to gather insights on implementation challenges and perceived effectiveness.
• Student grades: Final grades for the science course will be collected as an additional measure of academic performance.

Instruments:

• Science Achievement Test (SAT-10) for pre- and post-testing
• Classroom Observation Protocol for Undergraduate STEM (COPUS) for structured observations
• Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) for student surveys
• Semi-structured interview guide for teacher interviews

Data Analysis: Quantitative data (test scores, survey responses, and grades) will be analyzed using:

• Descriptive statistics to summarize overall patterns
• Independent samples t-tests to compare outcomes between experimental and control groups
• Multiple regression analysis to control for potential confounding variables (e.g., prior academic performance, demographic factors)

Qualitative data from classroom observations and teacher interviews will be analyzed using thematic analysis. This will involve coding the data to identify recurring themes and patterns related to student engagement, implementation challenges, and perceived effectiveness of the flipped classroom model.

Ethical Considerations:

• Informed consent will be obtained from all participants (students, parents, and teachers).
• Student data will be anonymized to protect privacy.
• The study protocol will be reviewed and approved by the university’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) and the school district’s research committee.
• Participants will be informed that they can withdraw from the study at any time without penalty.

By combining quantitative and qualitative methods, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of the flipped classroom model in high school science education.”

6. Timeline

The timeline section outlines the schedule for your research project. It should show that you have a realistic plan for completing your study within the time constraints of your master’s program.

Tips for creating a research timeline:

• Break your project into specific tasks or phases
• Estimate how long each task will take
• Include time for unexpected delays or setbacks
• Consider any external factors that might affect your schedule (e.g., academic holidays, participant availability)
• Use a Gantt chart or similar visual representation if helpful

Example timeline for a one-year master’s research project:

• Finalize research proposal
• Submit for IRB approval
• Begin detailed literature review
• Develop and pilot test research instruments (e.g., surveys, interview guides)
• Recruit participants
• Continue literature review
• Conduct data collection (surveys, interviews, experiments, etc.)
• Begin preliminary data analysis
• Complete data analysis
• Start writing results section

Month 10-11:

• Write discussion and conclusion sections
• Revise and refine entire thesis
• Final editing and proofreading
• Submit thesis for review
• Prepare for defense

If your research requires funding, you’ll need to include a budget section. This should outline all anticipated expenses and potential funding sources.

Key elements to include in your budget:

• Personnel costs (e.g., research assistants, transcription services)
• Equipment and supplies
• Travel expenses (if applicable)
• Participant compensation (if applicable)
• Software or data analysis tools
• Printing and publication costs

Example budget table:

8. Expected Outcomes and Significance

This section should discuss what you expect to find through your research and why it matters. Explain how your study will contribute to your field and potentially impact practice or policy.

Key points to address:

• Your anticipated findings or results
• How your research will fill gaps in current knowledge
• Potential practical applications of your research
• How your study might lead to future research directions

Example: “This study on the impact of mindfulness meditation on college students’ stress levels is expected to yield several important outcomes:

• Quantitative evidence: We anticipate finding a significant reduction in self-reported stress levels and physiological stress markers (cortisol) among students who complete the online mindfulness intervention compared to the control group.
• Qualitative insights: Through follow-up interviews, we expect to gain rich insights into students’ experiences with mindfulness practice, including perceived benefits and challenges of incorporating meditation into their daily routines.
• Dosage effects: By varying the duration and frequency of mindfulness practice, we hope to identify optimal ‘dosages’ for stress reduction in this population.
• Individual differences: We anticipate uncovering factors that may influence the effectiveness of mindfulness practice, such as personality traits or prior meditation experience.

The significance of this research lies in its potential to:

• Inform university mental health services: Results could guide the development of accessible, evidence-based stress management programs for college students.
• Enhance academic performance: If mindfulness is shown to effectively reduce stress, it may indirectly contribute to improved academic outcomes by enhancing students’ cognitive function and emotional well-being.
• Promote long-term health: By teaching stress management skills during a formative period, this intervention could have lasting impacts on students’ mental and physical health beyond their college years.
• Advance mindfulness research: This study will contribute to the growing body of literature on mindfulness interventions, particularly in non-clinical, young adult populations.
• Inspire future research: Findings may generate new questions about the mechanisms of mindfulness, its long-term effects, or its applicability to other stressful life transitions.

By providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of a brief, online mindfulness intervention for college students, this study has the potential to significantly impact how universities approach student well-being and stress management.”

9. References

Your reference list should include all sources cited in your proposal. Use the citation style specified by your department or institution (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

Tips for your reference list:

• Ensure all citations in the text are included in the reference list and vice versa
• Follow the required citation style consistently
• Include DOIs (Digital Object Identifiers) for journal articles when available
• Double-check for accuracy in authors’ names, publication dates, and titles

Example (in APA 7th edition style): Creswell, J. D., Taren, A. A., Lindsay, E. K., Greco, C. M., Gianaros, P. J., Fairgrieve, A., ... & Ferris, J. L. (2016). Alterations in resting-state functional connectivity link mindfulness meditation with reduced interleukin-6: A randomized controlled trial. Biological Psychiatry, 80(1), 53-61. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2016.01.008 Hölzel, B. K., Carmody, J., Vangel, M., Congleton, C., Yerramsetti, S. M., Gard, T., & Lazar, S. W. (2011). Mindfulness practice leads to increases in regional brain gray matter density. Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging, 191(1), 36-43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pscychresns.2010.08.006 Kabat-Zinn, J. (2003). Mindfulness-based interventions in context: Past, present, and future. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 10(2), 144-156. https://doi.org/10.1093/clipsy.bpg016 Van Dam, N. T., van Vugt, M. K., Vago, D. R., Schmalzl, L., Saron, C. D., Olendzki, A., ..

10. Writing Style and Formatting

How you present your research proposal is almost as important as its content. A well-written, properly formatted proposal shows attention to detail and professionalism.

Key points to remember:

• Use clear, concise language: Avoid jargon or overly complex sentences.
• Be consistent: Use the same tense and style throughout your proposal.
• Follow formatting guidelines: Adhere to your institution’s requirements for font, margins, spacing, and page numbers.
• Use headings and subheadings: These help organize your proposal and make it easier to read.
• Proofread carefully: Typos and grammatical errors can distract from your ideas.

Example of clear writing:

Unclear: “The utilization of social media platform s by adolescents has been hypothesized to potentially result in deleterious effects on their psychological well-being.”

Clear: “Research suggests that teenagers’ use of social media may harm their mental health.”

11. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced researchers can make mistakes in their proposals. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Being too ambitious: Ensure your research is feasible within your time and resource constraints.
• Neglecting the “So what?” question: Always explain why your research matters.
• Ignoring potential limitations: Acknowledge possible weaknesses in your study design.
• Using outdated sources: Rely primarily on recent, peer-reviewed research.
• Failing to connect ideas: Ensure each section flows logically into the next.
• Overlooking ethical considerations: Always address how you’ll protect participants and handle data ethically.
• Writing a vague methodology: Provide enough detail for someone else to replicate your study.

Example of addressing limitations:

“While this study will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of online mindfulness interventions for college students, it has some limitations. The sample is drawn from a single university, which may limit generalizability to other student populations. Additionally, the short-term nature of the study (one semester) means we cannot assess the long-term effects of the intervention. Future research could address these limitations by including multiple universities and incorporating follow-up assessments.”

12. Tailoring Your Proposal to Your Field

While the basic structure of a research proposal is similar across disciplines, there may be field-specific expectations you should be aware of.

Social Sciences:

• Emphasize theoretical frameworks
• Discuss how your research builds on or challenges existing theories
• Consider mixed-methods approaches (combining quantitative and qualitative data)

Natural Sciences:

• Provide detailed descriptions of experimental procedures
• Explain how you’ll control for variables
• Include power analyses to justify your sample size

Humanities:

• Focus on the cultural, historical, or philosophical significance of your topic
• Discuss your approach to analyzing texts, artifacts, or other primary sources
• Explain how your research contributes to ongoing scholarly debates in your field

Example (for a literature proposal):

“This study will employ close reading techniques and historical contextualization to examine the representation of technology in early 20th century science fiction novels. By analyzing works by H.G. Wells, Jules Verne, and E.M. Forster, I aim to illuminate how these authors’ portrayals of imagined technologies reflected and shaped societal attitudes towards technological progress. This research will contribute to ongoing discussions in the field of literature and science studies about the role of fiction in shaping public understanding of scientific and technological developments.”

13. Seeking Feedback

Before submitting your proposal, it’s crucial to get feedback from others. This can help you identify weaknesses in your argument, clarify confusing points, and refine your ideas.

Sources of feedback:

• Your advisor or supervisor: They can provide subject-specific guidance and ensure your proposal meets department expectations.
• Peers: Fellow students can offer fresh perspectives and catch things you might have missed.
• Writing center: Many universities have writing centers that can help with structure and clarity.
• Experts in your field: If possible, consider reaching out to scholars whose work you cite for their input.

When seeking feedback, consider asking specific questions like:

• Is my research question clear and focused?
• Does my methodology seem appropriate and feasible?
• Have I adequately explained the significance of this research?
• Are there any parts of the proposal that are confusing or need more detail?

14. Revising and Polishing

After receiving feedback, take the time to revise and polish your proposal. This process often involves several rounds of editing.

Tips for effective revision:

• Address all feedback: Consider each suggestion carefully, even if you ultimately decide not to incorporate it.
• Read your proposal aloud: This can help you catch awkward phrasing or repetitive language.
• Take breaks: Step away from your proposal for a day or two, then return with fresh eyes.
• Check for consistency: Ensure your research question, objectives, and methodology all align.
• Tighten your writing: Eliminate unnecessary words and phrases.
• Update your references: Double-check that all your sources are current and correctly cited.

Example of tightening writing:

Before: “In this study, we will be conducting an investigation into the effects that social media usage has on the mental health and well-being of adolescents.”

After: “This study investigates how social media use affects adolescents’ mental health.”

15. Preparing for Questions

Once you submit your proposal , you may be asked to defend it orally. Preparing for potential questions can boost your confidence and demonstrate your thorough understanding of the project.

Common questions to prepare for:

• Why is this research important?
• How does your study differ from previous research on this topic?
• What are the potential challenges or limitations of your methodology?
• How will you ensure the ethical treatment of participants?
• What do you expect to find, and what will you do if your results differ from these expectations?
• How might your findings be applied in real-world settings?
• What are your plans for disseminating the results of this study?

Example answer:

Question: “How does your study on mindfulness in college students differ from existing research?”

Answer: “While there’s a growing body of research on mindfulness interventions, our study is unique in several ways. First, we’re focusing specifically on college students, a population often experiencing high stress levels but underrepresented in mindfulness research. Second, we’re using a brief, online intervention, which is more accessible and potentially more scalable than traditional in-person programs. Lastly, we’re combining both physiological measures (cortisol levels) and self-report data, providing a more comprehensive picture of the intervention’s effects than many previous studies that relied solely on self-report measures.”

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Writing a research proposal for your master’s degree is a challenging but rewarding process. It’s your opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of your field, your ability to identify important research questions, and your capacity to design a rigorous study to answer those questions.

Remember, a good proposal:

• Clearly states the research question and its significance
• Demonstrates familiarity with existing literature
• Outlines a feasible and appropriate methodology
• Anticipates potential challenges and limitations
• Explains the expected outcomes and their importance

By following the guidelines in this post, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a compelling research proposal. Don’t be discouraged if it takes several drafts to get it right – this is a normal part of the process. With persistence, critical thinking, and attention to detail, you can create a proposal that sets a strong foundation for your master’s research.

Good luck with your proposal, and enjoy the journey of contributing new knowledge to your field!

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How to write a research proposal for a Master's dissertation

Unsure how to start your research proposal as part of your dissertation read below our top tips from banking and finance student, nelly, on how to structure your proposal and make sure it's a strong, formative foundation to build your dissertation..

It's understandable if the proposal part of your dissertation feels like a waste of time. Why not just get started on the dissertation itself? Isn't 'proposal' a just fancy word for a plan?

It's important to see your Master's research proposal not only as a requirement but as a way of formalising your ideas and mapping out the direction and purpose of your dissertation. A strong, carefully prepared proposal is instrumental in writing a good dissertation.

How to structure a research proposal for a Master's dissertation

First things first: what do you need to include in a research proposal? The recommended structure of your proposal is:

• Motivation: introduce your research question and give an overview of the topic, explain the importance of your research
• Theory:  draw on existing pieces of research that are relevant to your topic of choice, leading up to your question and identifying how your dissertation will explore new territory
• Data and methodology: how do you plan to answer the research question? Explain your data sources and methodology
• Expected results: finally, what will the outcome be? What do you think your data and methodology will find?

Top Tips for Writing a Dissertation Research Proposal

Choose a dissertation topic well in advance of starting to write it

Allow existing research to guide you

Make your research questions as specific as possible

When you choose a topic, it will naturally be very broad and general. For example, Market Efficiency . Under this umbrella term, there are so many questions you could explore and challenge. But, it's so important that you hone in on one very specific question, such as ' How do presidential elections affect market efficiency?'  When it comes to your Master's, the more specific and clear-cut the better.

Collate your bibliography as you go

Everyone knows it's best practice to update your bibliography as you go, but that doesn't just apply to the main bibliography document you submit with your dissertation. Get in the habit of writing down the title, author and date of the relevant article next to every note you make - you'll be grateful you did it later down the line!

Colour code your notes based on which part of the proposal they apply to

Use highlighters and sticky notes to keep track of why you thought a certain research piece was useful, and what you intended to use it for. For example, if you've underlined lots of sections of a research article when it comes to pulling your research proposal together it will take you longer to remember what piece of research applies to where.

Instead, you may want to highlight anything that could inform your methodology in blue, any quotations that will form your theory in yellow etc. This will save you time and stress later down the line.

Write your Motivation after your Theory

Your Motivation section will be that much more coherent and specific if you write it after you've done all your research. All the reading you have done for your Theory will better cement the importance of your research, as well as provide plenty of context for you to write in detail your motivation. Think about the difference between ' I'm doing this because I'm interested in it ' vs. ' I'm doing this because I'm passionate, and I've noticed a clear gap in this area of study which is detailed below in example A, B and C .'

Make sure your Data and Methodology section is to the point and succinct

Link your Expectations to existing research

Your expectations should be based on research and data, not conjecture and assumptions. It doesn't matter if the end results match up to what you expected, as long as both of these sections are informed by research and data. 

Published By Nelly on 01/09/2020 | Last Updated 23/01/2024

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Research Proposal Example/Sample

In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals , one for a Master’s-level project, and one for a PhD-level dissertation. We also start off by unpacking our free research proposal template and discussing the four core sections of a research proposal, so that you have a clear understanding of the basics before diving into the actual proposals.

• Research proposal example/sample – Master’s-level (PDF/Word)
• Research proposal example/sample – PhD-level (PDF/Word)
• Proposal template (Fully editable) 

If you’re working on a research proposal for a dissertation or thesis, you may also find the following useful:

• Research Proposal Bootcamp : Learn how to write a research proposal as efficiently and effectively as possible
• 1:1 Proposal Coaching : Get hands-on help with your research proposal

FAQ: Research Proposal Example

Research proposal example: frequently asked questions, are the sample proposals real.

Yes. The proposals are real and were approved by the respective universities.

Can I copy one of these proposals for my own research?

As we discuss in the video, every research proposal will be slightly different, depending on the university’s unique requirements, as well as the nature of the research itself. Therefore, you’ll need to tailor your research proposal to suit your specific context.

You can learn more about the basics of writing a research proposal here .

How do I get the research proposal template?

You can access our free proposal template here .

Is the proposal template really free?

Yes. There is no cost for the proposal template and you are free to use it as a foundation for your research proposal.

Where can I learn more about proposal writing?

For self-directed learners, our Research Proposal Bootcamp is a great starting point.

For students that want hands-on guidance, our private coaching service is recommended.

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How to Write a Dissertation or Thesis Proposal

Published on September 21, 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on July 18, 2023.

When starting your thesis or dissertation process, one of the first requirements is a research proposal or a prospectus. It describes what or who you want to examine, delving into why, when, where, and how you will do so, stemming from your research question and a relevant topic .

The proposal or prospectus stage is crucial for the development of your research. It helps you choose a type of research to pursue, as well as whether to pursue qualitative or quantitative methods and what your research design will look like.

You can download our templates in the format of your choice below.

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Table of contents

What should your proposal contain, dissertation question examples, what should your proposal look like, dissertation prospectus examples, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about proposals.

Prior to jumping into the research for your thesis or dissertation, you first need to develop your research proposal and have it approved by your supervisor. It should outline all of the decisions you have taken about your project, from your dissertation topic to your hypotheses and research objectives .

Depending on your department’s requirements, there may be a defense component involved, where you present your research plan in prospectus format to your committee for their approval.

Your proposal should answer the following questions:

• Why is your research necessary?
• What is already known about your topic?
• Where and when will your research be conducted?
• Who should be studied?
• How can the research best be done?

Ultimately, your proposal should persuade your supervisor or committee that your proposed project is worth pursuing.

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Strong research kicks off with a solid research question , and dissertations are no exception to this.

Dissertation research questions should be:

• Focused on a single problem or issue
• Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources
• Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints
• Specific enough to answer thoroughly
• Complex enough to develop the answer over the space of a paper or thesis
• Relevant to your field of study and/or society more broadly
• What are the main factors enticing people under 30 in suburban areas to engage in the gig economy?
• Which techniques prove most effective for 1st-grade teachers at local elementary schools in engaging students with special needs?
• Which communication streams are the most effective for getting those aged 18-30 to the polls on Election Day?

An easy rule of thumb is that your proposal will usually resemble a (much) shorter version of your thesis or dissertation. While of course it won’t include the results section , discussion section , or conclusion , it serves as a “mini” version or roadmap for what you eventually seek to write.

Be sure to include:

• A succinct introduction to your topic and problem statement
• A brief literature review situating your topic within existing research
• A basic outline of the research methods you think will best answer your research question
• The perceived implications for future research
• A reference list in the citation style of your choice

The length of your proposal varies quite a bit depending on your discipline and type of work you’re conducting. While a thesis proposal is often only 3-7 pages long, a prospectus for your dissertation is usually much longer, with more detailed analysis. Dissertation proposals can be up to 25-30 pages in length.

Writing a proposal or prospectus can be a challenge, but we’ve compiled some examples for you to get your started.

• Example #1: “Geographic Representations of the Planet Mars, 1867-1907” by Maria Lane
• Example #2: “Individuals and the State in Late Bronze Age Greece: Messenian Perspectives on Mycenaean Society” by Dimitri Nakassis
• Example #3: “Manhood Up in the Air: A Study of Male Flight Attendants, Queerness, and Corporate Capitalism during the Cold War Era” by Phil Tiemeyer

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The research methods you use depend on the type of data you need to answer your research question .

• If you want to measure something or test a hypothesis , use quantitative methods . If you want to explore ideas, thoughts and meanings, use qualitative methods .
• If you want to analyze a large amount of readily-available data, use secondary data. If you want data specific to your purposes with control over how it is generated, collect primary data.
• If you want to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables , use experimental methods. If you want to understand the characteristics of a research subject, use descriptive methods.

A thesis or dissertation outline is one of the most critical first steps in your writing process. It helps you to lay out and organize your ideas and can provide you with a roadmap for deciding what kind of research you’d like to undertake.

Generally, an outline contains information on the different sections included in your thesis or dissertation , such as:

• Your anticipated title
• Your abstract
• Your chapters (sometimes subdivided into further topics like literature review , research methods , avenues for future research, etc.)

A well-planned research design helps ensure that your methods match your research aims, that you collect high-quality data, and that you use the right kind of analysis to answer your questions, utilizing credible sources . This allows you to draw valid , trustworthy conclusions.

The priorities of a research design can vary depending on the field, but you usually have to specify:

• Your research questions and/or hypotheses
• Your overall approach (e.g., qualitative or quantitative )
• The type of design you’re using (e.g., a survey , experiment , or case study )
• Your sampling methods or criteria for selecting subjects
• Your data collection methods (e.g., questionnaires , observations)
• Your data collection procedures (e.g., operationalization , timing and data management)
• Your data analysis methods (e.g., statistical tests  or thematic analysis )

A dissertation prospectus or proposal describes what or who you plan to research for your dissertation. It delves into why, when, where, and how you will do your research, as well as helps you choose a type of research to pursue. You should also determine whether you plan to pursue qualitative or quantitative methods and what your research design will look like.

It should outline all of the decisions you have taken about your project, from your dissertation topic to your hypotheses and research objectives , ready to be approved by your supervisor or committee.

Note that some departments require a defense component, where you present your prospectus to your committee orally.

Formulating a main research question can be a difficult task. Overall, your question should contribute to solving the problem that you have defined in your problem statement .

However, it should also fulfill criteria in three main areas:

• Researchability
• Feasibility and specificity
• Relevance and originality

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• Dissertation

How to Write a Dissertation Proposal | A Step-by-Step Guide

Published on 14 February 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on 11 November 2022.

A dissertation proposal describes the research you want to do: what it’s about, how you’ll conduct it, and why it’s worthwhile. You will probably have to write a proposal before starting your dissertation as an undergraduate or postgraduate student.

A dissertation proposal should generally include:

• An introduction to your topic and aims
• A literature review  of the current state of knowledge
• An outline of your proposed methodology
• A discussion of the possible implications of the research
• A bibliography  of relevant sources

Dissertation proposals vary a lot in terms of length and structure, so make sure to follow any guidelines given to you by your institution, and check with your supervisor when you’re unsure.

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Table of contents

Step 1: coming up with an idea, step 2: presenting your idea in the introduction, step 3: exploring related research in the literature review, step 4: describing your methodology, step 5: outlining the potential implications of your research, step 6: creating a reference list or bibliography.

Before writing your proposal, it’s important to come up with a strong idea for your dissertation.

Find an area of your field that interests you and do some preliminary reading in that area. What are the key concerns of other researchers? What do they suggest as areas for further research, and what strikes you personally as an interesting gap in the field?

Once you have an idea, consider how to narrow it down and the best way to frame it. Don’t be too ambitious or too vague – a dissertation topic needs to be specific enough to be feasible. Move from a broad field of interest to a specific niche:

• Russian literature 19th century Russian literature The novels of Tolstoy and Dostoevsky
• Social media Mental health effects of social media Influence of social media on young adults suffering from anxiety

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Like most academic texts, a dissertation proposal begins with an introduction . This is where you introduce the topic of your research, provide some background, and most importantly, present your aim , objectives and research question(s) .

Try to dive straight into your chosen topic: What’s at stake in your research? Why is it interesting? Don’t spend too long on generalisations or grand statements:

• Social media is the most important technological trend of the 21st century. It has changed the world and influences our lives every day.
• Psychologists generally agree that the ubiquity of social media in the lives of young adults today has a profound impact on their mental health. However, the exact nature of this impact needs further investigation.

Once your area of research is clear, you can present more background and context. What does the reader need to know to understand your proposed questions? What’s the current state of research on this topic, and what will your dissertation contribute to the field?

If you’re including a literature review, you don’t need to go into too much detail at this point, but give the reader a general sense of the debates that you’re intervening in.

This leads you into the most important part of the introduction: your aim, objectives and research question(s) . These should be clearly identifiable and stand out from the text – for example, you could present them using bullet points or bold font.

Make sure that your research questions are specific and workable – something you can reasonably answer within the scope of your dissertation. Avoid being too broad or having too many different questions. Remember that your goal in a dissertation proposal is to convince the reader that your research is valuable and feasible:

• Does social media harm mental health?
• What is the impact of daily social media use on 18– to 25–year–olds suffering from general anxiety disorder?

Now that your topic is clear, it’s time to explore existing research covering similar ideas. This is important because it shows you what is missing from other research in the field and ensures that you’re not asking a question someone else has already answered.

You’ve probably already done some preliminary reading, but now that your topic is more clearly defined, you need to thoroughly analyse and evaluate the most relevant sources in your literature review .

Here you should summarise the findings of other researchers and comment on gaps and problems in their studies. There may be a lot of research to cover, so make effective use of paraphrasing to write concisely:

• Smith and Prakash state that ‘our results indicate a 25% decrease in the incidence of mechanical failure after the new formula was applied’.
• Smith and Prakash’s formula reduced mechanical failures by 25%.

The point is to identify findings and theories that will influence your own research, but also to highlight gaps and limitations in previous research which your dissertation can address:

• Subsequent research has failed to replicate this result, however, suggesting a flaw in Smith and Prakash’s methods. It is likely that the failure resulted from…

Next, you’ll describe your proposed methodology : the specific things you hope to do, the structure of your research and the methods that you will use to gather and analyse data.

You should get quite specific in this section – you need to convince your supervisor that you’ve thought through your approach to the research and can realistically carry it out. This section will look quite different, and vary in length, depending on your field of study.

You may be engaged in more empirical research, focusing on data collection and discovering new information, or more theoretical research, attempting to develop a new conceptual model or add nuance to an existing one.

Dissertation research often involves both, but the content of your methodology section will vary according to how important each approach is to your dissertation.

Empirical research

Empirical research involves collecting new data and analysing it in order to answer your research questions. It can be quantitative (focused on numbers), qualitative (focused on words and meanings), or a combination of both.

With empirical research, it’s important to describe in detail how you plan to collect your data:

• Will you use surveys ? A lab experiment ? Interviews?
• What variables will you measure?
• How will you select a representative sample ?
• If other people will participate in your research, what measures will you take to ensure they are treated ethically?
• What tools (conceptual and physical) will you use, and why?

It’s appropriate to cite other research here. When you need to justify your choice of a particular research method or tool, for example, you can cite a text describing the advantages and appropriate usage of that method.

Don’t overdo this, though; you don’t need to reiterate the whole theoretical literature, just what’s relevant to the choices you have made.

Moreover, your research will necessarily involve analysing the data after you have collected it. Though you don’t know yet what the data will look like, it’s important to know what you’re looking for and indicate what methods (e.g. statistical tests , thematic analysis ) you will use.

Theoretical research

You can also do theoretical research that doesn’t involve original data collection. In this case, your methodology section will focus more on the theory you plan to work with in your dissertation: relevant conceptual models and the approach you intend to take.

For example, a literary analysis dissertation rarely involves collecting new data, but it’s still necessary to explain the theoretical approach that will be taken to the text(s) under discussion, as well as which parts of the text(s) you will focus on:

• This dissertation will utilise Foucault’s theory of panopticism to explore the theme of surveillance in Orwell’s 1984 and Kafka’s The Trial…

Here, you may refer to the same theorists you have already discussed in the literature review. In this case, the emphasis is placed on how you plan to use their contributions in your own research.

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You’ll usually conclude your dissertation proposal with a section discussing what you expect your research to achieve.

You obviously can’t be too sure: you don’t know yet what your results and conclusions will be. Instead, you should describe the projected implications and contribution to knowledge of your dissertation.

First, consider the potential implications of your research. Will you:

• Develop or test a theory?
• Provide new information to governments or businesses?
• Challenge a commonly held belief?
• Suggest an improvement to a specific process?

Describe the intended result of your research and the theoretical or practical impact it will have:

Finally, it’s sensible to conclude by briefly restating the contribution to knowledge you hope to make: the specific question(s) you hope to answer and the gap the answer(s) will fill in existing knowledge:

Like any academic text, it’s important that your dissertation proposal effectively references all the sources you have used. You need to include a properly formatted reference list or bibliography at the end of your proposal.

Different institutions recommend different styles of referencing – commonly used styles include Harvard , Vancouver , APA , or MHRA . If your department does not have specific requirements, choose a style and apply it consistently.

A reference list includes only the sources that you cited in your proposal. A bibliography is slightly different: it can include every source you consulted in preparing the proposal, even if you didn’t mention it in the text. In the case of a dissertation proposal, a bibliography may also list relevant sources that you haven’t yet read, but that you intend to use during the research itself.

Check with your supervisor what type of bibliography or reference list you should include.

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• Masters Dissertation Proposals

Written by Sarah Hastings-Woodhouse

Before you can get down to the task of writing your Masters dissertation , you’ll need to submit a proposal, which will outline the objectives of your research and a how you plan to complete it. In this guide, we’ll cover what a dissertation proposal is and what it should include.

On this page

What is a masters dissertation proposal.

You may have already written a dissertation proposal for your undergraduate degree – in which case you’ll be pleased to hear that the process isn’t that different at Masters level. In short, it should introduce the research question you intend to answer, and outline how you plan to do so.

Your proposal should demonstrate that you’ve thought carefully about your project and that you’re well equipped to undertake it – though it doesn’t need to provide an exact blueprint for your final dissertation. Research is a fluid process, and it’s likely that your objectives and methodology will evolve over time.

What should my Masters dissertation proposal include?

We’ve provided a rough guideline to what your proposal should contain below. This is not an exhaustive list, and your department may have specific requirements. There are many ways to structure your proposal – so don’t feel that you need to stick with the order we’ve used (your university may also provide you with a premade template!).

Introduction

This should include a working title (although this is not set in stone!) and a brief description of your research topic, objectives and the questions you intend to answer. You should also establish the scope of your research (a Masters student in History might specify a particular time period to be focused on, for example).

At the end of your introduction, you may want to include an overview of how the rest of your proposal will be structured.

Preliminary literature review

Your literature review should list the key texts that you will consult in your research and summarise the contributions they have made to the field. Make sure you explain why you have chosen these works as your key sources, and exactly how you intend to use them.

This is also an opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of the academic context in which your research will take place. What other research has already been conducted in this area, and how will your work expand, enrich, or complicate our understanding of it?

You might also want to mention any previous work you have done in this area – a module you have studied in the past, for example – and how you will fill existing gaps in your knowledge.

Research methodology

This is where you’ll get into the nitty gritty of exactly how you’ll achieve your research objectives. You’ll have specified your key sources in your literature review – but now you’ll need to break down precisely what qualitative or quantitative data you will extract from them, as well as how you’ll collect any primary data.

Beyond laying out your research game-plan, it’s important to justify your decisions. What makes your chosen methodologies particularly appropriate to your research? Can you foresee any biases or constraints that they might present, and how will you overcome them?

Be as precise as you can about the research tools you’ll employ – these could include lab-based experiments, surveys, interviews or participant observation to name just a few.

Of course, not every project will involve direct experimentation or the collection of your own empirical data – but this does not mean you should be any less exact in detailing your research approach. You might be planning to examine a source through a particular theoretical framework, for example.

Research aims

Here you’ll outline exactly what you hope to achieve by the end of your project. You may also wish to predict what the outcome of your research is will be (though this is likely to change once you get stuck in to writing the dissertation itself!).

Make sure you are realistic about what your research can achieve. The scope of your project needs to be narrow enough that you can thoroughly address it within the dissertation word count. The purpose of a dissertation proposal, beyond explaining what your aims are, is demonstrating that they are feasible! Which brings us onto our next section…

Constraints and limitations

Sadly, there is a limit to what can be accomplished in 15,000-20,000 words! It’s important to include not only what your research will address but also what it will not. This is also a useful way of situating your work within a larger body of knowledge – by specifying the limits of your research, you’re acknowledging that your work is a small (but important!) piece of a wider academic puzzle.

Ethical considerations

If you’re planning on conducting any experiments with human participants, it’s important to make sure you address any ethical concerns. This might include specifying how you will obtain informed consent and maintain confidentiality. Your university should have its own policy on research ethics, as well as guidance on how you can carry out you work in accordance with it.

Bibliography

Your bibliography should consist of properly formatted references of all the sources mentioned in your proposal, as well as any others that you plan to use in the dissertation itself. Don't leave this part to the last minute! Remember to keep track of any sources you are consulting as you go, to save yourself the headache of tracking them all down later.

How long should my Masters dissertation proposal be?

Word limits for dissertation proposals can vary considerably depending on your discipline. Humanities departments will generally require a proposal of around 1,000 words (this can occasionally be up to 2,000), while a proposal for a STEM dissertation could be as short as 250-350 words . Your department will provide guidance on this.

Hopefully, this guide has given you an idea of what you Masters dissertation proposal should include. Though it will likely not count towards your overall grade, it’s worth using the proposal writing process as an opportunity to put in some serious groundwork. This will help you parse and flesh out your ideas and provide you will with an invaluable resource that you can draw on later in the writing process!

For more information, check out our full guide to researching and writing your Masters dissertation .

Applying for a Masters can feel a bit daunting. Here is a checklist of all the things you need to do to make sure you have everything covered in your Masters application.

Postgraduate study is often very flexible, with the option to study a Masters degree or other qualification part-time, online or through blended learning.

How do Bachelors and Masters courses differ? We’ve covered the main differences you’ll encounter when making the transition from undergrad to postgrad study.

All Masters programmes include some form of extended individual project or dissertation. This guide covers how to structure a Masters dissertation, word count, how the work is assessed and what you should expect from your dissertation supervisor.

Our guide explains how online Masters degree work, what the benefits of online learning are and how to choose what to study online.

Our guide tells you everything about the application process for studying a Masters in Italy.

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How to write a research proposal that stands out

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Writing your research proposal

When you apply for a research degree at the University of Portsmouth, you may have to submit a research proposal that outlines, among many other things, the nature of your research, and why it's important. 

To help make yours as compelling as possible, read our helpful hints for creating a clear, concise and engaging research proposal.

Prospective supervisors will not be expecting you to have all the answers at this stage; if accepted onto a research degree, your ideas will develop throughout the course of your studies.

What should a research proposal contain?

Title and abstract.

• Your title should be clear and easy-to-understand.
• The abstract is a concise and engaging summary of your research question and approach (around 300 words). It should be written as a standalone piece so that any prospective supervisor can understand what you plan to do, and why, from the abstract alone.

Introduction, background and rationale

• This section should provide a background to your research - what you want to investigate and why the research is important/needed.

Research aims, questions or hypothesis

• You should clearly communicate the research question(s) you would seek to answer in your intended research proposal. Depending on your chosen subject area you may also wish to specify some aims, objectives and hypotheses. If you are not sure whether this is necessary, discuss this with your potential supervisor.

Literature review

• In this section you will need to demonstrate your understanding of the key literature that relates to your research question(s), and outline your critical understanding of what previous research has found. You may also have identified any gaps in the current knowledge related to your area of research, and you can highlight these here.

Methodology

• A rationale and description of the approach you would intend to take to answer your research question(s). You should discuss the general approach you would take to answering your research question(s) e.g. in a Social Science PhD, whether you’d take a qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods approach, as well as considering the more specific issues e.g. would you use interviews or focus groups.
• Clearly outline any separate studies you expect to conduct and how they link or relate to each other. As a rule of thumb, most Science, Social Science and Engineering PhDs research proposals would be expected to contain 3-4 separate studies, each approximately equivalent to a Masters thesis project in size.
• What ethical considerations do you anticipate within your research, and how might you approach these?

Dissemination and impact

• Sharing the findings of your research is a fundamental part of being a researcher, and prospective supervisors will be interested to know how you anticipate disseminating your research findings.
• A research degree can take between 3-6 years to complete, so a timeline of the key stages of your research should be included.

Referencing

• Don't forget to include your references  

How long should my research proposal be? 

Most proposals are between 1,500-4,000 words, but the exact length will vary depending on which research area you're applying to join. 

Your potential supervisor can let you know any specific requirements for the area you’re applying to.

You are strongly encouraged to work with your potential supervisor to refine your proposal before you make a formal application. This way, you can make sure the project is a good fit with their interests and expertise.

Do your homework - make sure your problem hasn't already been solved.

Engage the reader - you don't want the reader to switch off!

Be realistic - especially about timescales and accessing data

Take your time - it's important not to rush writing your research proposal 

Seek feedback - it's always a good idea to get others to read your research proposal

Prepare to be flexible, your project can evolve or change

Important do’s and don’ts

• Write your research proposal in your own words.
• Acknowledge any sources you used for information or ideas presented in your research proposal.
• Make sure the research proposal you are about to submit looks fantastic - f irst impressions count!

Don’t: 

• Copy and paste text directly from sources such as journal articles without acknowledging them in the text. Some universities use plagiarism checking software on the research proposals submitted to them.
• Use AI or similar tools to produce your finished proposal.

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Postgraduate Research Proposal Guide

Learn more about research proposals and the process involved in creating the perfect application. 

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Examples of research proposals

How to write your research proposal, with examples of good proposals.

Research proposals

Your research proposal is a key part of your application. It tells us about the question you want to answer through your research. It is a chance for you to show your knowledge of the subject area and tell us about the methods you want to use.

We use your research proposal to match you with a supervisor or team of supervisors.

In your proposal, please tell us if you have an interest in the work of a specific academic at York St John. You can get in touch with this academic to discuss your proposal. You can also speak to one of our Research Leads. There is a list of our Research Leads on the Apply page.

When you write your proposal you need to:

• Highlight how it is original or significant
• Explain how it will develop or challenge current knowledge of your subject
• Identify the importance of your research
• Show why you are the right person to do this research
• Research Proposal Example 1 (DOC, 49kB)
• Research Proposal Example 2 (DOC, 0.9MB)
• Research Proposal Example 3 (DOC, 55.5kB)
• Research Proposal Example 4 (DOC, 49.5kB)

Subject specific guidance

• Writing a Humanities PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
• Writing a Creative Writing PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
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How to write a research proposal

What is a research proposal.

A research proposal should present your idea or question and expected outcomes with clarity and definition – the what .

It should also make a case for why your question is significant and what value it will bring to your discipline – the why . 

What it shouldn't do is answer the question – that's what your research will do.

Why is it important?

Research proposals are significant because it formally outlines your intended research. You need to provide details on how you will go about your research, including:

• your approach and methodology
• timeline and feasibility
• all other considerations needed to progress your research, such as resources.

Think of it as a tool that will help you clarify your idea and make conducting your research easier.

How long should it be?

Usually no more than 2000 words, but check the requirements of your degree, and your supervisor or research coordinator.

Presenting your idea clearly and concisely demonstrates that you can write this way – an attribute of a potential research candidate that is valued by assessors.

What should it include?

Project title.

Your title should clearly indicate what your proposed research is about.

Research supervisor

State the name, department and faculty or school of the academic who has agreed to supervise you. Rest assured, your research supervisor will work with you to refine your research proposal ahead of submission to ensure it meets the needs of your discipline.

Proposed mode of research

Describe your proposed mode of research. This may be closely linked to your discipline and is where you will describe the style or format of your research, e.g. data, field research, composition, written work, social performance and mixed media etc. 

This is not required for research in the sciences, but your research supervisor will be able to guide you on discipline-specific requirements.

Aims and objectives

What are you trying to achieve with your research? What is the purpose?

This section should reference why you're applying for a research degree. Are you addressing a gap in the current research? Do you want to look at a theory more closely and test it out? Is there something you're trying to prove or disprove? To help you clarify this, think about the potential outcome of your research if you were successful – that is your aim. Make sure that this is a focused statement.

Your objectives will be your aim broken down – the steps to achieving the intended outcome. They are the smaller proof points that will underpin your research's purpose. Be logical in the order of how you present these so that each succeeds the previous, i.e. if you need to achieve 'a' before 'b' before 'c', then make sure you order your objectives a, b, c.

A concise summary of what your research is about. It outlines the key aspects of what you will investigate as well as the expected outcomes. It briefly covers the what, why and how of your research. 

Tip: A good way to evaluate if you have written a strong synopsis, is to get somebody to read it without reading the rest of your research proposal. Would they know what your research is about?

Now that you have your question clarified, it is time to explain the why. Here, you need to demonstrate an understanding of the current research climate in your area of interest.

Providing context around your research topic through a literature review will show the assessor that you understand current dialogue around your research, and what is published.

Demonstrate you have a strong understanding of the key topics, significant studies and notable researchers in your area of research and how these have contributed to the current landscape.

Expected research contribution

In this section, you should consider the following:

• Why is your research question or hypothesis worth asking?
• How is the current research lacking or falling short?
• What impact will your research have on the discipline?
• Will you be extending an area of knowledge, applying it to new contexts, solving a problem, testing a theory, or challenging an existing one?
• Establish why your research is important by convincing your audience there is a gap.
• What will be the outcome of your research contribution?
• Demonstrate both your current level of knowledge and how the pursuit of your question or hypothesis will create a new understanding and generate new information.
• Show how your research is innovative and original.

Draw links between your research and the faculty or school you are applying at, and explain why you have chosen your supervisor, and what research have they or their school done to reinforce and support your own work. Cite these reasons to demonstrate how your research will benefit and contribute to the current body of knowledge.

Proposed methodology

Provide an overview of the methodology and techniques you will use to conduct your research. Cover what materials and equipment you will use, what theoretical frameworks will you draw on, and how will you collect data.

Highlight why you have chosen this particular methodology, but also why others may not have been as suitable. You need to demonstrate that you have put thought into your approach and why it's the most appropriate way to carry out your research. 

It should also highlight potential limitations you anticipate, feasibility within time and other constraints, ethical considerations and how you will address these, as well as general resources.

A work plan is a critical component of your research proposal because it indicates the feasibility of completion within the timeframe and supports you in achieving your objectives throughout your degree.

Consider the milestones you aim to achieve at each stage of your research. A PhD or master's degree by research can take two to four years of full-time study to complete. It might be helpful to offer year one in detail and the following years in broader terms. Ultimately you have to show that your research is likely to be both original and finished – and that you understand the time involved.

Provide details of the resources you will need to carry out your research project. Consider equipment, fieldwork expenses, travel and a proposed budget, to indicate how realistic your research proposal is in terms of financial requirements and whether any adjustments are needed.

Bibliography

Provide a list of references that you've made throughout your research proposal. 

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How to write your research proposal

A key part of your application is your research proposal. Whether you are applying for a self-funded or studentship you should follow the guidance below.

If you are looking specifically for advice on writing your PhD by published work research proposal, read our guide .

You are encouraged to contact us to discuss the availability of supervision in your area of research before you make a formal application, by  visiting our areas of research .

What is your research proposal used for and why is it important?

• It is used to establish whether there is expertise to support your proposed area of research
• It forms part of the assessment of your application
• The research proposal you submit as part of your application is just the starting point, as your ideas evolve your proposed research is likely to change

How long should my research proposal be?

It should be 2,000–3,500 words (4-7 pages) long.

What should be included in my research proposal?

Your proposal should include the following:

• your title should give a clear indication of your proposed research approach or key question

2. BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE

You should include:

• the background and issues of your proposed research
• identify your discipline
• a short literature review
• a summary of key debates and developments in the field

3. RESEARCH QUESTION(S)

You should formulate these clearly, giving an explanation as to what problems and issues are to be explored and why they are worth exploring

4. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

You should provide an outline of:

• the theoretical resources to be drawn on
• the research approach (theoretical framework)
• the research methods appropriate for the proposed research
• a discussion of advantages as well as limits of particular approaches and methods

5. PLAN OF WORK & TIME SCHEDULE

You should include an outline of the various stages and corresponding time lines for developing and implementing the research, including writing up your thesis.

For  full-time study  your research should be completed within three years, with writing up completed in the fourth year of registration.

For  part-time study  your research should be completed within six years, with writing up completed by the eighth year.

6. BIBLIOGRAPHY

• a list of references to key articles and texts discussed within your research proposal
• a selection of sources appropriate to the proposed research

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• Graduate School

How to Write a Master's Thesis Proposal

How to write a master’s thesis proposal is one of the most-asked questions by graduate students. A master's thesis proposal involves a copious amount of data collection, particular presentation ethics, and most importantly, it will become the roadmap to your full thesis. Remember, you must convince your committee that your idea is strong and unique, and that you have done enough legwork to begin with the first few drafts of your final thesis. Your proposal should serve as a foundational blueprint on which you will later build your entire project. To have the perfect thesis proposal, you need to have original ideas, solid information, and proper presentation. While it is a good idea to take assistance from thesis writing services , you still need to personally understand the elements that contribute to a master’s thesis proposal worthy of approval. In this blog, we will discuss the process of writing your master’s thesis proposal and give you tips for making your proposal strong. Stay tuned!

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Article Contents 8 min read

How to decide the goals for your master's thesis.

If you are pursuing a master’s or a PhD , you will be undertaking a major research paper or a thesis. Thus, writing a thesis proposal becomes inevitable. Your major objective for pursuing a master’s degree is to improve your knowledge in your field of study. When you start your degree, you delve deeper into different concepts in your discipline and try to search for answers to all kinds of questions. If you come across a question that no one can answer, you can select that question as your research thesis topic.

A master's thesis proposal will have multiple sections depending on your decided layout. These sections will continuously support your argument and try to convince the reader of your core argument. The structure will also help you arrange the various parts of the paper to have a greater impact on the readers. A paper should always begin with you giving a brief summary of the topic and how you have come across it. The introduction is particularly important because it will give the readers a brief idea about the topic of discussion and win their interest in the matter.

After the summary has been given, slowly you need to progress into the body of the thesis proposal which would explain your argument, research methodology, literary texts that have a relation to the topic, and the conclusion of your study. It would be similar to an essay or a literary review consisting of 3 or 4 parts. The bibliography will be placed at the end of the paper so that people can cross-check your sources.

Let's take a look at the sections most master's thesis proposals should cover. Please note that each university has its own guidelines for how to structure and what to include in a master’s thesis proposal. The outline we provide below is general, so please make sure to follow the exact guidelines provided by your school:

Restate your primary argument and give us a glimpse of what you will include in the main master\u2019s thesis. Leave the reader wanting more. Your research proposal should talk about what research chapters you are trying to undertake in your final thesis. You can also mention the proposed time in which you will complete these chapters.  ","label":"Conclusion and proposed chapters","title":"Conclusion and proposed chapters"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

A thesis proposal needs to be convincing enough to get approval. If the information is not enough to satisfy the evaluation committee, it would require revision. Hence, you need to select and follow the right methodology to make your argument convincing. When a research proposal is presented, the reader will determine the validity of your argument by judging the strength of your evidence and conclusions. Therefore, even writige:ng a proposal will require extensive research on your part. You should start writing your thesis proposal by working through the following steps.

Interested in a summary of the points covered below? Check out this infographic:

Exploring your topic in detail

You need to delve deeper into your chosen topic to see if your idea is original. In the process of this exploration, you will find tons of materials that will be supportive of your argument. When choosing your research topic and the problem you want to explore, you should always consider your primary research interest (yes, the one which you had mentioned in your research interest statement during grad school applications) for a better master’s thesis. You have a high probability of performing better in an area that you have always liked as compared to any other research area or topic.

Reviewing the literature

You have to include all the sources from where you have formed your argument and mention them in the thesis proposal. If you neglect to mention important source texts, the reader may consider it to be plagiarism. Furthermore, you want to keep track of all your research because it will be easier to provide references if you know the exact source of each piece of information.

Finding opposing arguments for your study

You should also mention any texts that would counter your argument and try to disprove their claims in the thesis. Make sure to use evidence if you try to disprove the counterarguments you face.

Emphasizing the importance of your research

At the end of the thesis proposal, you need to convince the reader why your proposal is important to your chosen field of study, which would ultimately help you in getting your topic approved. Thus, it is essential to outline the importance of your research thoroughly.

Drafting your proposal

After doing proper research, you should go ahead and draft your proposal. Remember you will not get it right in just one draft, it will take at least 50 attempts to come up with a satisfactory proposal. You should proofread your draft several times and even have a fellow student review it for you before sending it further to your research supervisor.

Getting your proposal evaluated by your supervisor

After you have written sufficient drafts, you need to get your proposal evaluated by your research supervisor. This is necessary to meet the graduate research requirements. It will ensure the clarity and correctness of your proposal. For your supervisor to evaluate your proposal, you should complete the research methodology part along with sufficient proposed work.

Since your supervisor will play a crucial role in your master's research thesis, you must choose a supervisor who can be your ultimate guide in writing your master's thesis. They will be your partner and support system during your study and will help you in eliminating obstacles to achieving your goal.

Choosing the ideal supervisor is a pretty daunting task. Here’s how you can go about the process:

You should approach your professor with an open mind and discuss the potential goals of your research. You should hear what they think and then if you both mutually agree, you can choose them as your supervisor for your master\u2019s thesis. "}]">

Length of a Master’s Thesis Proposal

The length of a master’s thesis proposal differs from university to university and depends on the discipline of research as well. Usually, you have to include all the above-mentioned sections, and the length is around 8 pages and can go up to 12-15 pages for subjects such as the liberal arts. Universities might also define the number of words in the guidelines for your master’s thesis proposal and you have to adhere to that word limit.

How to Format a Research Thesis Proposal Correctly?

Now that you know how to write a thesis proposal, you must make it presentable. Although your school might give your specific instructions, you can keep in mind some of the general advice:

• You can use some basic font like Times New Roman and keep the font size to 10 or 12 points.
• The left margin should be 1.5 inches and all other margins should be 1 inch each.
• You should follow double-spacing for your content.
• The first line of paragraphs should be indented 0.5 inches and the paragraphs should be left or center aligned.

Tips to Write a Strong Master's Thesis Proposal

When you are writing your master’s thesis proposal, you should keep these tips in mind to write an excellent master’s thesis proposal with all the correct elements to get approval from the evaluating committee:

Select your research objectives wisely

You should be clear on what you wish to learn from your research. Your learning objectives should stem from your research interests. If you are unsure, refer to your grad school career goals statement to review what you wanted out of grad school in the first place. Then, choose your objectives around it.

Write a clear title

The title of your research proposal should be concise and written in a language that can be understood easily by others. The title should be able to give the reader an idea of your intended research and should be interesting.

Jot down your thoughts, arguments, and evidence

You should always start with a rough outline of your arguments because you will not miss any point in this way. Brainstorm what you want to include in the proposal and then expand those points to complete your proposal. You can decide the major headings with the help of the guidelines provided to you.

Focus on the feasibility and importance

You should consider whether your research is feasible with the available resources. Additionally, your proposal should clearly convey the significance of your research in your field.

Use simple language

Since the evaluation committee can have researchers from different subject areas, it is best to write your proposal in a simple language that is understandable by all.

Stick to the guidelines

Your university will be providing the guidelines for writing your research proposal. You should adhere to those guidelines strictly since your proposal will be primarily evaluated on the basis of those.

Have an impactful opening section

It is a no-brainer that the opening statement of your proposal should be powerful enough to grasp the attention of the readers and get them interested in your research topic. You should be able to convey your interest and enthusiasm in the introductory section.

Peer review prior to submission

Apart from working with your research supervisor, it is essential that you ask some classmates and friends to review your proposal. The comments and suggestions that they give will be valuable in helping you to make the language of your proposal clearer.

You have worked hard to get into grad school and even harder on searching your research topic. Thus, you must be careful while building your thesis proposal so that you have maximum chances of acceptance.

Writing the perfect research proposal might be challenging, but keeping to the basics might make your task easier. In a nutshell, you need to be thorough in your study question. You should conduct sufficient research to gather all relevant materials required to support your argument. After collecting all data, make sure to present it systematically to give a clearer understanding and convince the evaluators to approve your proposal. Lastly, remember to submit your proposal well within the deadline set by your university. Your performance at grad school is essential, especially if you need a graduate degree to gain admission to med school and your thesis contributes to that performance. Thus, start with a suitable research problem, draft a strong proposal, and then begin with your thesis after your proposal is approved.

In your master’s thesis proposal, you should include your research topic and the problem statement being addressed in your research, along with a proposed solution. The proposal should explain the importance and limitations of your research.

The length of a master’s thesis proposal is outlined by the university in the instructions for preparing your master’s thesis proposal.

The time taken to write a master’s thesis proposal depends upon the study which you are undertaking and your discipline of research. It will take a minimum time of three months. The ideal time can be around six months. 

You should begin your master’s thesis proposal by writing an introduction to your research topic. You should state your topic clearly and provide some background. Keep notes and rough drafts of your proposal so you can always refer to them when you write the first real draft.

The basic sections that your master’s thesis proposal should cover are the problem statement, research methodology, proposed activities, importance, and the limitations of your research.

A master’s thesis proposal which clearly defines the problem in a straightforward and explains the research methodology in simple words is considered a good thesis proposal.

You can use any classic font for your master’s thesis proposal such as Times New Roman. If you are recommended a specific font in the proposal guidelines by your institution, it would be advisable to stick to that.

The ideal font size for your master’s thesis proposal will be 10 or 12 points.

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When learning how to write a research proposal, it is important to start with a detailed plan that outlines the objectives, methodology, and significance of a research project. A research proposal is a crucial document for securing funding, gaining approval from academic committees, or outlining a structured plan for personal research endeavours. Crafting a compelling research proposal requires a clear understanding of the subject matter, a well-defined research question, and a meticulous approach to planning and presenting your research. This article will explore how to write a winning research proposal and how to navigate the challenges associated with it.

Understanding the Components of a Research Proposal

A well-structured research proposal typically includes several key components. Each section serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall coherence and persuasiveness of the proposal.

The title of your research proposal should be concise, descriptive, and indicative of the main research question or hypothesis. A well-crafted title captures the essence of the study and draws the reader’s attention.

2. Abstract

The abstract is a brief summary of the research proposal, usually no more than 250 words. It should provide an overview of the research problem, objectives, methodology, and potential implications. The abstract should be clear and succinct, giving readers a quick understanding of what the proposal entails.

3. Introduction

The introduction sets the stage for your research by providing background information on the topic, outlining the research problem, and stating the research objectives. This section should:

• Introduce the topic: Provide context and explain why the topic is important.
• State the research problem: Clearly define the issue or gap in knowledge that your research aims to address.
• Outline the research objectives: Specify the aims of your research and the questions you intend to answer.

4. Literature Review

The literature review demonstrates your understanding of the existing research on your topic. This section should:

• Summarise relevant studies: Discuss key findings from previous research that relate to your topic.
• Identify gaps: Highlight areas where further research is needed.
• Justify your research: Explain how your study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge.

5. Research Methodology

The methodology section outlines the research design and the methods you will use to collect and analyse data. This section should include:

• Research design: Describe whether your study is qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods.
• Data collection methods: Detail how you will gather data (e.g., surveys, interviews, experiments).
• Data analysis methods: Explain how you will analyse the data (e.g., statistical analysis, thematic analysis).
• Ethical considerations: Address any ethical issues related to your research and how you will handle them.

6. Research Plan and Timeline

Provide a detailed plan of the research activities and a timeline for completing each phase of the project. This section should demonstrate that your research is feasible within the given timeframe.

7. Budget (if applicable)

If you are seeking funding, include a budget that outlines the estimated costs of your research. Be specific about how funds will be allocated (e.g., equipment, travel, participant incentives).

8. Expected Outcomes and Impact

Discuss the potential outcomes of your research and its significance. Explain how your findings could contribute to the field, inform policy, or have practical applications.

9. References

List all the sources you cited in your proposal. Use a consistent and appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).

Tips for Writing a Strong Research Proposal

Be clear and concise.

Use clear and straightforward language. Avoid jargon and complex sentences that might confuse readers. Aim for clarity and precision in explaining your research.

Stay Focused

Ensure that your proposal remains focused on the research question and objectives. Avoid including irrelevant information that does not contribute to the understanding of your proposed study.

Demonstrate Feasibility

Provide a realistic assessment of what can be achieved within the given timeframe and resources. Be honest about the scope of your research and any potential limitations.

Edit and Proofread

Your proposal must be clear, concise, and logically organised, following all rules of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and referencing. Adhere to the specific format and style required by your funding source or institution. Proofread your proposal multiple times, ideally with the help of a colleague or mentor, to identify and correct any mistakes or inconsistencies. Enhance the proposal’s structure, flow, and language to improve its overall quality. Ensure your proposal is compelling, engaging, and professionally presented.

Writing a research proposal is a critical step in the research process. It requires careful planning, a thorough understanding of the topic, and a clear presentation of your research plan. By following the structure outlined in this guide and paying attention to detail, you can craft a compelling research proposal that effectively communicates your ideas and secures the necessary support for your research.

At Unicaf , we offer comprehensive courses and resources to help you develop your research skills and succeed in your academic and professional endeavours. Explore our programmes today and take the next step in your research journey.

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NSF Financial Assistance awards (grants and cooperative agreements) made on or after October 1, 2024, will be subject to the applicable set of award conditions, dated October 1, 2024, available on the NSF website . These terms and conditions are consistent with the revised guidance specified in the OMB Guidance for Federal Financial Assistance published in the Federal Register on April 22, 2024.

Important information for proposers

All proposals must be submitted in accordance with the requirements specified in this funding opportunity and in the NSF Proposal & Award Policies & Procedures Guide (PAPPG) that is in effect for the relevant due date to which the proposal is being submitted. It is the responsibility of the proposer to ensure that the proposal meets these requirements. Submitting a proposal prior to a specified deadline does not negate this requirement.

Supports fellowships for outstanding graduate students who are pursuing full-time, research-based masters and doctoral degrees in science, technology, engineering or math or STEM education.

The purpose of the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) is to help ensure the quality, vitality, and diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce of the United States. The program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students who are pursuing full-time research-based master's and doctoral degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) or in STEM education. The GRFP provides three years of support over a five-year fellowship period for the graduate education of individuals who have demonstrated their potential for significant research achievements in STEM or STEM education.  NSF actively encourages submission of applications from the full spectrum of diverse talent that society has to offer which includes underrepresented and underserved communities.

NSF GRFP was established to recruit and support individuals who demonstrate the potential to make significant contributions in STEM. NSF especially encourages applications from undergraduate seniors and Bachelor's degree-holders interested in pursuing research-based graduate study in STEM.  First- and second-year graduate students in eligible STEM fields and degree programs are also encouraged to apply.

Program contacts

The Graduate Research Fellowship Operations Center is responsible for processing applications and responding to requests for information.  General inquiries regarding the Graduate Research Fellowship Program should be made to:

Graduate Research Fellowship Operations Center, telephone: 866-NSF-GRFP, 866-673-4737 (toll-free from the US and Canada) or 202-331-3542 (international). email: [email protected]

Program events

• August 15, 2024 - Information and Intelligent Systems (IIS) Office Hours
• August 12, 2024 - DEB Virtual Office Hour: Graduate Research Fellowship Program
• July 18, 2024 - IOS Virtual Office Hour: Graduate Research Fellowship Program
• August 15, 2023 - Division of Biological Infrastructure (DBI) Virtual Office…
• August 9, 2023 - MCB Virtual Office Hour: Graduate Research Fellowship Program

Additional program resources

• Non-NSF website with comprehensive information on how to apply, eligibility, phone numbers and email addresses
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the Graduate Research Fellowship Program
• Administrative Guide for Fellows and Coordinating Officials
• List of Fellows and Honorable Mentions

Awards made through this program

Organization(s).

• Directorate for Biological Sciences (BIO)
• Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE)
• Directorate for STEM Education (EDU)
• Division of Graduate Education (EDU/DGE)
• Directorate for Engineering (ENG)
• Directorate for Geosciences (GEO)
• Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (MPS)
• Directorate for Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences (SBE)
• Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP)
• Office of Integrative Activities (OD/OIA)
• Office of International Science and Engineering (OD/OISE)