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151+ Research Proposal Topics [Updated 2024]

Research Proposal Topics

Crafting a compelling research proposal begins with selecting the right topic—a task that demands careful consideration and a thoughtful approach. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the intricacies of choosing research proposal topics, exploring the importance of a well-defined focus and guiding you through the steps to create a robust proposal.

How to Select Research Proposal Topics?

Table of Contents

Selecting research proposal topics is a crucial step in the research process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose a compelling and impactful research topic:

  • Self-reflection:
  • Identify your personal interests, passions, and curiosities.
  • Consider topics that resonate with you on a deep level.
  • Academic and Professional Interests:
  • Reflect on subjects that captivated you during coursework or work experience.
  • Assess the relevance of these interests to your academic or career goals.
  • Current Issues and Trends:
  • Stay informed about contemporary challenges and emerging trends in your field.
  • Choose a topic that addresses current issues for greater relevance and impact.
  • Literature Review:
  • Conduct a thorough review of existing research in your chosen field.
  • Identify gaps and limitations in the current body of knowledge.
  • Formulate Clear Research Questions:
  • Develop clear and concise research questions based on the gaps identified.
  • Ensure your questions are feasible and align with the chosen topic.
  • Choose a Methodology:
  • Select an appropriate research methodology (experimental, qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods).
  • Justify your choice and discuss data collection techniques.
  • Significance and Contribution:
  • Articulate the relevance of your proposed research.
  • Highlight the potential contributions your work can make to the field.
  • Research Design and Plan:
  • Outline the specifics of your research design.
  • Create a realistic timeline, allocating resources and budget effectively.
  • Address Challenges and Limitations:
  • Acknowledge potential challenges and limitations.
  • Discuss strategies to mitigate challenges and be transparent about constraints.
  • Conclusion:
  • Summarize key points of your research proposal.
  • Emphasize the importance of the chosen topic and encourage feedback.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your research proposal topic is not only engaging but also has the potential to make a meaningful contribution to your field of study.

151+ Research Proposal Topics: Category Wise

Science and technology.

  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Market Trends
  • Advancements in Renewable Energy Technologies
  • Exploring the Potential of CRISPR Technology in Genetic Engineering
  • Cybersecurity Measures for Critical Infrastructure Protection
  • The Role of Blockchain in Supply Chain Management
  • Augmented Reality in Education: Enhancing Learning Experiences
  • Quantum Computing: Current Status and Future Implications
  • Sustainable Technologies for Environmental Conservation
  • Smart Cities: Integrating Technology for Urban Development
  • Robotics in Healthcare: Applications and Ethical Considerations

Health and Medicine

  • Precision Medicine: Customizing Healthcare Based on Genetic Factors
  • The Impact of Telemedicine on Patient Care
  • Mental Health Stigma: Strategies for Reduction and Education
  • Vaccination Hesitancy: Understanding Causes and Developing Interventions
  • Aging Population and Healthcare Challenges
  • Bioinformatics and Personalized Cancer Therapies
  • The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Diagnosing Medical Conditions
  • Emerging Infectious Diseases: Preparedness and Response Strategies
  • Nutrition Education in Schools: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles
  • Healthcare Disparities: Addressing and Eliminating Gaps in Access

Social Sciences

  • Social Media and its Influence on Political Discourse
  • Impact of Social Isolation on Mental Health in Elderly Populations
  • Cultural Competence in Education: Training and Implementation
  • The Role of Gender Stereotypes in Career Choices
  • Cyberbullying: Prevention and Intervention Strategies
  • The Effects of Immigration Policies on Migrant Communities
  • Restorative Justice in Criminal Justice Systems
  • Examining the Relationship Between Social Media Use and Self-Esteem
  • Intersectionality in Feminist Movements: Challenges and Opportunities
  • Community Policing: Building Trust between Law Enforcement and Communities
  • E-Learning Platforms: Effectiveness and Challenges
  • Inquiry-Based Learning: Enhancing Critical Thinking Skills
  • Inclusive Education Practices: Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners
  • The Impact of Standardized Testing on Educational Equity
  • School Safety Measures: Strategies for Prevention and Response
  • Teacher Professional Development: Models and Effectiveness
  • Online Education Accessibility for Students with Disabilities
  • Gamification in Education: Engaging Students in Learning
  • Bilingual Education: Benefits and Challenges
  • STEM Education Initiatives: Encouraging Interest in Science and Technology

Business and Economics

  • Sustainable Business Practices: Balancing Profit and Environmental Impact
  • Corporate Social Responsibility in Multinational Corporations
  • Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Business Operations
  • Economic Consequences of Global Health Crises
  • Digital Marketing Trends and Consumer Behavior
  • Financial Literacy Education: Bridging the Gap
  • Small Business Sustainability: Challenges and Strategies
  • The Gig Economy: Implications for Workers and Employers
  • Supply Chain Resilience in the Face of Global Disruptions
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Emerging Markets

Environment and Sustainability

  • Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Coastal Communities
  • Biodiversity Conservation in Urban Environments
  • Circular Economy Models: Reducing Waste and Promoting Sustainability
  • Water Scarcity: Technological Solutions and Policy Measures
  • Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Ecosystems
  • Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Balancing Production and Conservation
  • Environmental Education in Schools: Fostering Eco-Consciousness
  • Green Building Technologies: Enhancing Energy Efficiency
  • Ecotourism: Balancing Conservation and Economic Development
  • The Role of International Agreements in Addressing Environmental Issues

Psychology and Behavior

  • The Influence of Social Media on Body Image and Self-Esteem
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety and Depression
  • Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
  • Positive Psychology Interventions: Enhancing Well-Being
  • Sleep Hygiene and its Impact on Mental Health
  • The Psychology of Procrastination: Causes and Interventions
  • Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace: Benefits and Training
  • The Impact of Parenting Styles on Child Development
  • Cross-Cultural Psychology: Understanding Cultural Influences on Behavior
  • The Role of Music in Emotional Regulation and Stress Reduction

Political Science and International Relations

  • The Rise of Populism: Causes and Consequences
  • Cyber Warfare and International Security
  • Human Rights Violations in Conflict Zones: Challenges and Solutions
  • The Role of International Organizations in Global Governance
  • Political Polarization: Understanding Divisive Trends
  • Nuclear Proliferation and Arms Control Agreements
  • Comparative Analysis of Electoral Systems
  • Immigration Policies and Social Cohesion
  • Global Health Diplomacy: Collaborative Approaches to Health Challenges
  • The Impact of Disinformation on Democratic Processes

History and Cultural Studies

  • Reevaluating Historical Narratives: Perspectives and Interpretations
  • Cultural Impact of Globalization: Trends and Reactions
  • Indigenous Rights and Representation in Historical Context
  • History of Scientific Discoveries and their Societal Impact
  • Archaeological Excavations: Uncovering Lost Civilizations
  • Cultural Appropriation: Examining Controversies and Contexts
  • The Role of Women in Historical Movements
  • Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Challenges and Innovations
  • Historical Trauma and its Contemporary Repercussions
  • Impact of Colonialism on Contemporary Societies

Communication and Media Studies

  • Influence of Social Media on Political Participation
  • Media Representation of Marginalized Groups
  • Fake News and Misinformation: Identifying and Combating Trends
  • The Evolution of Print Media in the Digital Age
  • Media Literacy Education: Navigating Information in the Digital Era
  • Celebrity Culture and its Impact on Society
  • The Role of Public Relations in Shaping Organizational Image
  • Cross-Cultural Communication in Global Business
  • Podcasting as an Emerging Medium of Communication
  • Advertising and Consumer Behavior: Analyzing Persuasion Techniques

Philosophy and Ethics

  • Ethical Considerations in Artificial Intelligence Research
  • Bioethics in Medical Decision-Making
  • Existentialism and its Relevance in Contemporary Society
  • Animal Rights and Ethical Treatment in Scientific Research
  • Environmental Ethics: Balancing Human Needs and Ecological Sustainability
  • The Ethics of Genetic Engineering and Cloning
  • Virtue Ethics in Professional Decision-Making
  • Technology and Privacy: Ethical Dilemmas in the Digital Age
  • Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Warfare
  • Utilitarianism and its Application in Ethical Decision-Making

Education Policy and Administration

  • School Voucher Programs: Impact on Educational Equity
  • Teacher Evaluation Systems: Effectiveness and Fairness
  • Inclusive Leadership in Educational Institutions
  • Early Childhood Education: Policy and Implementation
  • Standardized Testing: Implications for Educational Policy
  • Education Funding Models: Challenges and Solutions
  • School Choice and its Impact on Student Achievement
  • Educational Technology Integration in Classroom Settings
  • Community Engagement in School Decision-Making
  • The Role of Educational Leaders in Fostering Inclusive Schools

Economics and Development Studies

  • Microfinance and Poverty Alleviation Strategies
  • Impact of Global Trade Policies on Developing Economies
  • Economic Empowerment of Women in Developing Countries
  • Sustainable Development Goals: Progress and Challenges
  • Rural-Urban Migration: Economic and Social Impacts
  • Financial Inclusion: Strategies for Bridging the Gap
  • Foreign Aid Effectiveness: Assessing Outcomes
  • Technology Transfer and Innovation in Developing Nations
  • Income Inequality: Causes and Policy Solutions
  • The Role of Microenterprise in Local Economic Development

Criminal Justice and Law

  • Restorative Justice: Implementation and Impact on Recidivism
  • Police Body Cameras: Efficacy and Ethical Considerations
  • Cybercrime Laws and Challenges in the Digital Age
  • Juvenile Justice Reform: Strategies for Rehabilitation
  • Bail Reform: Addressing Inequities in Pretrial Detention
  • Criminal Profiling: Validity and Ethical Concerns
  • Drug Policy Reform: Exploring Alternatives to Criminalization
  • The Impact of Hate Crime Legislation on Social Cohesion
  • Eyewitness Testimony Reliability: Challenges and Improvements
  • International Criminal Court: Effectiveness and Challenges

Public Health and Epidemiology

  • Disease Surveillance Systems: Enhancing Early Detection
  • Health Inequalities: Social Determinants and Interventions
  • Maternal and Child Health Interventions in Developing Countries
  • Impact of Health Education on Preventive Behaviors
  • Access to Healthcare Services in Rural Areas
  • Lifestyle Interventions for Chronic Disease Prevention
  • Community-Based Participatory Research in Public Health
  • Mental Health Interventions in School Settings
  • The Role of Public Health in Pandemic Preparedness and Response

Computer Science

  • Explainable Artificial Intelligence: Bridging the Gap Between Performance and Interpretability
  • The Role of Quantum Computing in Revolutionizing Cryptography
  • Ethical Considerations in the Development of Autonomous Vehicles
  • Cybersecurity Challenges in the Internet of Things (IoT) Ecosystem
  • Human-Computer Interaction: Enhancing User Experience in Virtual Reality Environments

How to Compose a Research Proposal?

Composing a research proposal is a systematic process that involves careful planning, organization, and clear articulation of your research idea. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to compose a research proposal:

  • Title: 
  • Create a clear and concise title that reflects the essence of your research.
  • Introduction:
  • Provide background information on the research topic.
  • Clearly state the research problem or question.
  • Justify the importance and relevance of your research.
  • Summarize relevant existing literature.
  • Identify gaps, limitations, and areas for further exploration.
  • Establish a theoretical framework for your study.
  • Research Questions or Hypotheses:
  • Formulate clear and specific research questions or hypotheses.
  • Ensure they align with the research problem and are feasible.
  • Objectives or Aims:
  • Outline the specific goals of your research.
  • Clearly state what you aim to achieve with your study.
  • Methodology:
  • Describe the research design and justify your choice.
  • Detail the data collection methods and tools you plan to use.
  • Address ethical considerations related to your research.
  • Explain the importance of your research.
  • Clearly state the potential contributions your study can make.
  • Provide a detailed plan for executing your research.
  • Include a timeline, milestones, and the allocation of resources.
  • Potential Challenges and Limitations:
  • Acknowledge possible obstacles and limitations.
  • Discuss strategies to address challenges proactively.
  • Summarize the key points of your research proposal.
  • Reiterate the significance of your research.
  • Invite feedback and suggestions.
  • References:
  • Cite all the sources and literature used in your proposal.
  • Follow the appropriate citation style ( APA, MLA, Chicago , etc.).
  • Appendices (if necessary):
  • Include any supplementary materials such as surveys, questionnaires, or additional data.

Tips for Composing a Research Proposal

  • Clarity and Conciseness: Use clear and straightforward language. Avoid unnecessary jargon that may confuse readers.
  • Alignment: Ensure that each section of your proposal aligns with the overall research objective.
  • Feasibility: Confirm that your proposed research is feasible within the given time and resource constraints.
  • Review and Revise: Review your proposal for coherence, consistency, and clarity. Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or advisors and make revisions accordingly.
  • Adherence to Guidelines: Follow any specific guidelines or instructions provided by your institution or funding agency.
  • Engage the Reader: Capture the reader’s attention in the introduction and maintain engagement throughout.
  • Ethical Considerations: Clearly address any ethical concerns related to your research, ensuring compliance with ethical standards.

Selecting research proposal topics is a nuanced process that requires a blend of personal passion, academic rigor, and an understanding of the broader context.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the seas of research proposal development with confidence, ensuring that your chosen topic is not only compelling but also lays the foundation for meaningful and impactful research.

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  • How to Write a Great PhD Research Proposal | FindAPhD.com

How to Write a Great PhD Research Proposal

Written by Mark Bennett

You'll need to write a research proposal if you're submitting your own project plan as part of a PhD application. A good PhD proposal outlines the scope and significance of your topic and explains how you plan to research it.

It's helpful to think about the proposal like this: if the rest of your application explains your ability to do a PhD, the proposal demonstrates the actual PhD you plan to do. Of course, being able to effectively plan and explain a research project is one of the key qualifications for being able to complete one, which is why the proposal is such an important part of the PhD application process.

Thankfully, the secret to writing a good research proposal isn't complicated. It's simply a case of understanding what the proposal is for, what it needs to do and how it needs to be put together.

On this page

What is a phd research proposal.

First things first, do you need a research proposal for your PhD? It depends on the kind of project you want to do:

  • If your PhD is advertised by a university, you probably won't need to submit a research proposal for it. The broad aims and objectives for your PhD will already be defined: you just need to prove you're the right person to do it.
  • But, if you're proposing your own research topic to research within a university's PhD programme, you will need to write a proposal for it (the clue is in the word "proposing")

As a rule, advertised PhDs are very common in STEM subjects, whereas Arts, Humanities and Social Science students are more likely to propose their own PhDs.

Some PhD programmes actually wait and ask students to develop their research proposal during the degree (usually after they've completed some initial training). This is normal in the USA , but it's becoming more common for some UKRI-funded UK PhDs.

For the purposes of this guide we're going to assume that you do need to write a good research proposal for your PhD application. So let's explore what's involved in that.

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What should a research proposal for PhD admission include?

It's natural to be a little intimidated at the thought of structuring a PhD proposal, particularly if you've never written anything like this before.

But here's the thing: a research proposal isn't a fiendish test designed to catch you out and stop you ever doing a PhD. It's actually much more boring than that.

All a research proposal really is is a document that demonstrates three things:

  • Your PhD is worthwhile
  • Your PhD is feasible
  • You are capable of completing it at this university

Or to put it even more simply: the PhD is worth doing, it's doable and you can do it.

Demonstrate your PhD is worthwhile (the what and the why)

A successful PhD project has to make a significant original contribution to knowledge. If it doesn't, it won't meet the criteria for a doctoral degree and will probably fail the viva exam .

Your PhD proposal itself doesn't have to meet those criteria (or pass a viva!) but it does need to indicate that your PhD project eventually will.

It does that by first demonstrating that your research topic is original. That means nobody else has studied this same topic (or one very similar) before.

There are all sorts of ways a PhD can be original. You might examine new data or primary sources, to look at existing material from a fresh perspective, or deal with the impact of new events. It doesn't matter how your project is original, so long as your proposal is really specific about what makes it original.

You also need to explain why your proposed research will be academically significant. To do this properly, you'll need to acknowledge relevant existing scholarship and explain how your research will relate to it. You don't need to be exhaustive at this point, but you should be able to show how your PhD will contribute to its field and – ideally – indicate some of the gaps in knowledge it will aim to fill.

The final step in demonstrating your PhD is worthwhile is to suggest what will become possible as a result of your research. How could other researchers use or build upon your results? What might closing those gaps in academic knowledge mean for audiences outside the unviversity?

Demonstrate your PhD is feasible (the how)

It isn't enough just to show that your research is worth doing; it also needs to actually be doable.

The length of a full-time PhD is around three to four years in most countries (it's longer in for a PhD in the USA , but you don't spend all that time doing research).

Three years may seem like a long time, but researching a PhD is a lot of work and you'll probably spend at least some of your time on other activities like teaching, conference presentations or even publication.

So, one of the things your proposal needs to do is demonstrate that your project is feasible: that it fits within the scope of a PhD.

The most important criteria for this is to be clear about what you plan to do. It should be obvious from your proposal what the scope of your project is – what is and isn't included within it.

You also need to outline how you plan to go about your research. Where will you start and what order do you expect to proceed in? Is the logic for that obvious? If not, it's probably a good idea to explain it.

Finally, you need to explain the methodology you plan to use. This could include techniques for collecting data and sources, theoretical perspectives for analysing them – or both. You may also need to detail specific equipment you expect to use or fieldwork you'll need to undertake (including trips to archives or other external resources).

None of this needs to be exact or completely final. The key word here is 'plan' – but you do need to have one.

Demonstrate that you can complete it at this university (the who and the where)

So far we've thought about the project itself: what makes it worth doing and how it's going to get done. But your proposal also needs to address the who and the where: why are you the right person to carry out this research, and why do you want to do it at this particular university?

The first part of this is easier than it probably looks. Writing a good research proposal demonstrates enthusiasm for your project much more convincingly than simply saying you're very interested in it (a classic case of 'show, don't tell').

You also don't need to repeat your grades and academic achievements (other parts of your PhD application will cover those). Instead, try to underline experiences that relate to this project. Has a particular module or Masters dissertation topic prepared you with useful subject knowledge or methodological skills? If so, highlight it.

It's also fine, within reason, to be honest about the skills you don't have and to identify your training needs. This shows you're being practical about your project and thinking seriously about what it will require. Just make sure you can realistically acquire the skills and training you need within the time available (this goes back to the feasibility).

Showing your project is a good fit for the university is also relatively simple. There should already be some reasons why you've chosen this university for your PhD so make sure you explain what they are. Perhaps there's a particular supervisor you'd like to work with , or facilities and resources your research could use. The key is to emphasise the fit between the project and the university – so don't just say you want to research there because it's highly ranked .

PhD research proposal structure

Hopefully the above sections have given you a few ideas for the things your proposal needs to include. Let's be honest though, the scariest thing about a proposal isn't deciding what to include: it's actually writing it.

But, if we flip that on its head, we remember that all a research proposal really is is a piece of writing that follows a pretty standard format. And that's a lot less scary.

Research proposal structure

Because proposals for PhD all have to do the same things, they mostly follow a similar structure. Yours will probably go something like this:

  • Title – Keep it simple and descriptive: the clever alliteration and quotes can come later when you write up your thesis. For now, you just want the person reading this to know exactly what your research is about and, perhaps, which prospective supervisor to send it to.
  • Overview – Start by defining your research question (the what) and explaining how it contributes to current work in your field (the why). This is also a good place to reference one or two pieces of scholarship: the full literature review can wait until your PhD begins, but you should show that you have some understanding of relevant academic research.
  • Methodology – Make sure the reader understands the practical and / or theoretical approaches you'll take to your research. What data will you collect, how will you collect it and how will you analyse it? Ideally refer to relevant research methods and models. It's also a good idea to provide some sort of roadmap for how you'll go about things. Don't worry, you can change it later (and you will).
  • Outcomes and impact – What will exist as a result of your research (other than just another PhD on a library shelf) and what will it make possible? You don't need to identify every specific outcome from your project (blue sky research is fine) but you should think about what some potential outcomes might be.

You probably won't need to include a specific conclusion - it should be obvious, by now, what your project is doing, how you're going to do it and why that matters. A quick summary sentence is fine though, if you think it will help.

Writing tips

Being able to effectively communicate academic concepts, ideas and results is a key skill for PhD research in all subjects . Think of your proposal as a chance to demonstrate this.

The good news is that the key principles of good proposal writing aren't that different from other work you've probably done as a Bachelors or Masters student:

  • Be clear – The person reading your research proposal should know exactly what it is you're proposing to research, with no room for ambiguity and confusion. This is important on a practical level (they need to know where to send it) but it's also important to the success of your application: a confusing proposal suggests a confused project. Try having a friend read it and ask them "do you know what it is I'm proposing to do here?" (even if they don't understand the details).
  • Be concise – You will have more ideas than you can include in your proposal. That's fine. Choose the best ones and leave the others for your interview .
  • be coherent – Follow something like the structure above. Don't start with your methodology, then say what it is you want to research.

How long should a PhD research proposal be?

Honestly? As long as the university asks for it to be. Most will have guidelines and you should follow them closely if so.

If you honestly can't find a suggested word count for your proposal, then consider asking a prospective supervisor . If you still aren't sure, aim for somewhere between 1,000-2,000 words .

As a very general rule, Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences are a bit longer than STEM proposals (and a lot of STEM students don't have to write one anyway, as we've explained).

Research proposal for PhD admission - dos and don'ts

Research proposals are a popular topic over on the FindAPhD blog , where we've shared stories of how students wrote theirs , along with mistakes to avoid and a counter-intuitive look at the things a PhD proposal doesn't actually need to do .

Here are a few general tips and mistakes to avoid:

#1 Give yourself enough time to do a good job

Preparing to write a PhD proposal takes time and effort. None of this is wasted as the process of evaluating and framing your ideas for a proposal will improve your project plan immensely. So will the need to decide which ideas to include.

But you need time and space to do that, so make sure you get it. How long it will take to write your PhD proposal is heavily dependent on your personal working style, but you'll likely need to give yourself at least a few weeks to do a good job.

#2 Set out to impress

A good proposal isn't a begging letter. You're approaching the university with a great idea that's going to contribute to and enhance their research. Be honest, be realistic, but don't be unnecessarily humble. They should want you and your project.

#3 Demonstrate original thinking!

You may not need to present original research findings yet, but your proposal does need to present original ideas – and it should be clear why and how those ideas are original.

Make sure you indicate how your project is going to expand, enhance or even correct existing work in your field. Remember that making an "original contribution to knowledge" is a key part of what a PhD is .

#1 Send the same proposal to several universities

A good proposal needs to explain why you want to do your research at a particular university. That's a big part of the feasibility (the fit between project, person and place) and methodology (how are you going to use this university's equipment and archives; when and where will you need to travel).

It's OK to apply to more than one university in parallel, but, in that case, you're writing research proposals .

#2 Use online proposal templates (without evaluating them first!)

It can be tempting to search for PhD proposal samples on the internet, but make sure you evaluate what you find. Some websites may host old proposals from previous PhD students, but there's no way of knowing how relevant these are to your subject and university – or if they were even successful! More 'generic' research proposal examples can offer guidance, but they won't be tailored to your specific project.

The best place to look for a PhD proposal sample is your university. Consider asking your supervisor if they can share a good proposal from a previous student in your subject – or put you in touch with a current student you can ask.

#3 Confuse the proposal with the PhD

We've covered this on the blog , but it's simple enough to include here too.

You're setting out to do a PhD, but you (probably!) haven't done one yet. So you don't need to include research findings, in-depth analysis or a comprehesive literature review. You need to make a case for the research and analysis you want to do.

#4 Ignore your university's help and guidance

The advice on this page is necessarily quite general. We're considering adding guides to writing PhD proposals in specific subjects in future but, for now, the best place to get specific advice for your academic field is probably the university you're applying to.

See if you can get some subject-specific tips by contacting a supervisor , or just checking with the admissions team for your department.

And remember: if they give you a structure and a word count, stick to it.

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Find out what PhD opportunities are currently available with our FindAPhD course listings .

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Mark bennett.

Mark joined FindAPhD to develop our first ever advice articles in 2013 and now serves as our Director of Audience & Editorial, making sure our websites and information are as useful as possible for people thinking about Masters and PhD study. He has a PhD in English Literature from the University of Sheffield, as well as Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Kent and the University of South Wales.

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How to find a good topic for a PhD research proposal?

In many countries an application for a PhD position includes a written research proposal, so my questions is what are some advises/strategies to come up with a good topic/idea for a PhD research proposal and how can one assess the quality/fruitfulness of an idea ? As an undergraduate student one just doesn't have the experience to foresee which ideas might have promising research results and which probably won't have. (And I doubt that potential supervisors have the time to comment on every idea of every potential applicant in cases where it is possible to establish some kind of contact before the actual application.)

  • graduate-admissions
  • application
  • research-topic

ff524's user avatar

  • It seems unwise to undertake a PhD without at least a general topic already in mind. In my (very limited) experience students already have research experience and have established research relationships with faculty. For example, the fourth year of my undergrad ("Honours" in Australia), was a year supervised research. This is how I developed my research interests and found a supervisor. –  Stephen Tierney Commented Apr 23, 2013 at 11:07
  • 1 This is an extremely popular paper on the subject: weizmann.ac.il/mcb/UriAlon/nurturing/HowToChooseGoodProblem.pdf –  Bitwise Commented Apr 23, 2013 at 17:57

5 Answers 5

  • Jot down your interests.
  • Future goals (long term and short term). Doesn't have to be accurate but just to give you the "big picture".
  • Speak with your PhD advisor (if you already have one).
  • Align his/her interests with yours and see if you have common ground (you may need to lean towards his interests or find another advisor)
  • Once you have a list of topics that you could explore, do a literature review and figure out for what topics you'd have a taste.

Each person has his own formula on what to choose as their PhD proposal. This was the way I went about it.

PhD (Mechanical Engineering Expected Fall 2012)

dearN's user avatar

  • 3 I would stress that you should speak to your potential advisor (even if you don't have one yet!). You certainly shouldn't submit something that no potential supervisor has ever seen. This is not necessarily because the proposal would be better with their help, but there might be nobody who would be able to advise you. –  Lars Kotthoff Commented Feb 15, 2012 at 19:21
  • Thanks for the answer! The problem in many european countries is, that you don't apply for graduate school and then find a topic and supervisor at the university which accepted you (i believe this is how it works in the U.S.?), but you are supposed to come up with something in before (when you apply in the first place). See e.g. in this example what the applicants and their proposals will be judged on. –  tobigue Commented Feb 15, 2012 at 19:34
  • Regardless of what it says officially, it's always a good idea to at least establish contact with your potential advisor. If anything, it will show them that you're motivated. I think most people will be happy to give you at least some feedback on your proposal. –  Lars Kotthoff Commented Feb 15, 2012 at 20:13
  • 4 In most cases I know (Europe, Physics) the research proposal was written together between the PhD advisor and the candidate, or by the PhD advisor. You could in theory start without an advisor, but in practice almost everyone finds one before starting. –  finitud Commented Jul 7, 2014 at 10:18

In your case, I would find scientific publications aimed at the student/general population in your field, and read the articles written for the public. Both Science and Nature will have numerous articles in each issue that can be read and understood by the general public. Some subfields have publications directed specifically at the student/enthusiast population (such as IEEE Spectrum for Engineering).

By reading through these publications, you will get a sense for what the current major research focus is in a wide variety of fields, and you'll get a feel for what's interesting to you.

Talk to professors in fields that interest you! You'd be surprised at how many professors (admittedly, not all of them) would be willing to spend 15 minutes talking to you about their research, and their field in general. I'm not going to say "showing initiative is key to making progress", because it's not, but it can help, and you'll learn a tremendous amount this way.

Community's user avatar

Find a subject that you really really are passionately interested in, and care about finding out more about it. This subject is going to become almost your entire life for a few years, and you will need huge dedication to it, in order to complete.

Talk, ideally over a coffee, but by phone or (worst-case) email if you can't meet in person, with people who recently completed their PhDs and are now actively researching in this field; discuss your ideas and recent developments in the field.

Find an area that your intended supervisor is up-to-date in.

If you do it right, your PhD will lead you to knowing more than anyone else in the world about this very very specific subject: so it will really help if you're going to be keen to pursue it as a career after completing your PhD, even after writing several papers and making plenty of conference presentations on it.

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One aspect of a PhD is pursuing original research in your given field. I believe it is hard for an undergraduate to know what research has / hasn't been in covered in all of the topics they may be interested in.

Therefore, I would advise that you consider the topics you are interested in, and find out which Researchers / Professors are working in those fields, in the universities that you are considering. Then, you should ask them what they are working on at the moment, and what potential projects they would have in mind for a new PhD student joining them. This will give you a feel for the kind of research that you could be doing.

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There are already very good answers above; I would only like to add that you should also take into account whether you can get a scholarship/funding for your research topic. Your personal interests may not necessarily align with those of your potential funders. Consider how much you would be willing to compromise your own interests to be able to receive a scholarship. Most people cannot support themselves financially through the course of a PhD programme, so this point is not to be underestimated.

If you apply for a government scholarship for example, they will likely want you to study a topic that is of high policy relevance to them and you need to think about whether you can offer that or modify your original ideas in such a way that they will meet the policy priorities of the government at the point of application. Governments tend to publish their strategic priorities in various documents online, so it will not be difficult to make the connections between your research and their needs.

University departments giving scholarships tend to be more flexible with regard to research topics as long as the quality and originality of the proposed research is high, but again, it would be best to get an opinion from a member of the department on the chances of your proposal attracting sufficient interest that it will get funding.

Without funding, it will be close to impossible to do a PhD.

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phd proposal topics

phd proposal topics

How to Write a PhD Research Proposal

  • Applying to a PhD
  • A research proposal summarises your intended research.
  • Your research proposal is used to confirm you understand the topic, and that the university has the expertise to support your study.
  • The length of a research proposal varies. It is usually specified by either the programme requirements or the supervisor upon request. 1500 to 3500 words is common.
  • The typical research proposal structure consists of: Title, Abstract, Background and Rationale, Research Aims and Objectives, Research Design and Methodology, Timetable, and a Bibliography.

What is a Research Proposal?

A research proposal is a supporting document that may be required when applying to a research degree. It summarises your intended research by outlining what your research questions are, why they’re important to your field and what knowledge gaps surround your topic. It also outlines your research in terms of your aims, methods and proposed timetable .

What Is It Used for and Why Is It Important?

A research proposal will be used to:

  • Confirm whether you understand the topic and can communicate complex ideas.
  • Confirm whether the university has adequate expertise to support you in your research topic.
  • Apply for funding or research grants to external bodies.

How Long Should a PhD Research Proposal Be?

Some universities will specify a word count all students will need to adhere to. You will typically find these in the description of the PhD listing. If they haven’t stated a word count limit, you should contact the potential supervisor to clarify whether there are any requirements. If not, aim for 1500 to 3500 words (3 to 7 pages).

Your title should indicate clearly what your research question is. It needs to be simple and to the point; if the reader needs to read further into your proposal to understand your question, your working title isn’t clear enough.

Directly below your title, state the topic your research question relates to. Whether you include this information at the top of your proposal or insert a dedicated title page is your choice and will come down to personal preference.

2. Abstract

If your research proposal is over 2000 words, consider providing an abstract. Your abstract should summarise your question, why it’s important to your field and how you intend to answer it; in other words, explain your research context.

Only include crucial information in this section – 250 words should be sufficient to get across your main points.

3. Background & Rationale

First, specify which subject area your research problem falls in. This will help set the context of your study and will help the reader anticipate the direction of your proposed research.

Following this, include a literature review . A literature review summarises the existing knowledge which surrounds your research topic. This should include a discussion of the theories, models and bodies of text which directly relate to your research problem. As well as discussing the information available, discuss those which aren’t. In other words, identify what the current gaps in knowledge are and discuss how this will influence your research. Your aim here is to convince the potential supervisor and funding providers of why your intended research is worth investing time and money into.

Last, discuss the key debates and developments currently at the centre of your research area.

4. Research Aims & Objectives

Identify the aims and objectives of your research. The aims are the problems your project intends to solve; the objectives are the measurable steps and outcomes required to achieve the aim.

In outlining your aims and objectives, you will need to explain why your proposed research is worth exploring. Consider these aspects:

  • Will your research solve a problem?
  • Will your research address a current gap in knowledge?
  • Will your research have any social or practical benefits?

If you fail to address the above questions, it’s unlikely they will accept your proposal – all PhD research projects must show originality and value to be considered.

5. Research Design and Methodology

The following structure is recommended when discussing your research design:

  • Sample/Population – Discuss your sample size, target populations, specimen types etc.
  • Methods – What research methods have you considered, how did you evaluate them and how did you decide on your chosen one?
  • Data Collection – How are you going to collect and validate your data? Are there any limitations?
  • Data Analysis – How are you going to interpret your results and obtain a meaningful conclusion from them?
  • Ethical Considerations – Are there any potential implications associated with your research approach? This could either be to research participants or to your field as a whole on the outcome of your findings (i.e. if you’re researching a particularly controversial area). How are you going to monitor for these implications and what types of preventive steps will you need to put into place?

6. Timetable

PhD Project Plan - PhD research proposal

We’ve outlined the various stages of a PhD and the approximate duration of a PhD programme which you can refer to when designing your own research study.

7. Bibliography

Plagiarism is taken seriously across all academic levels, but even more so for doctorates. Therefore, ensure you reference the existing literature you have used in writing your PhD proposal. Besides this, try to adopt the same referencing style as the University you’re applying to uses. You can easily find this information in the PhD Thesis formatting guidelines published on the University’s website.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

Questions & Answers

Here are answers to some of the most common questions we’re asked about the Research Proposal:

Can You Change a Research Proposal?

Yes, your PhD research proposal outlines the start of your project only. It’s well accepted that the direction of your research will develop with time, therefore, you can revise it at later dates.

Can the Potential Supervisor Review My Draft Proposal?

Whether the potential supervisor will review your draft will depend on the individual. However, it is highly advisable that you at least attempt to discuss your draft with them. Even if they can’t review it, they may provide you with useful information regarding their department’s expertise which could help shape your PhD proposal. For example, you may amend your methodology should you come to learn that their laboratory is better equipped for an alternative method.

How Should I Structure and Format My Proposal?

Ensure you follow the same order as the headings given above. This is the most logical structure and will be the order your proposed supervisor will expect.

Most universities don’t provide formatting requirements for research proposals on the basis that they are a supporting document only, however, we recommend that you follow the same format they require for their PhD thesis submissions. This will give your reader familiarity and their guidelines should be readily available on their website.

Last, try to have someone within the same academic field or discipline area to review your proposal. The key is to confirm that they understand the importance of your work and how you intend to execute it. If they don’t, it’s likely a sign you need to rewrite some of your sections to be more coherent.

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phd research topic

How to Choose a PhD Research Topic

phd research topic

For most doctoral aspirants, starting on their PhD journey can be both exciting and challenging at the same time. It often begins with having to make a critical decision – choosing a research topic. A well-considered and relevant PhD research topic is crucial because it significantly impacts the overall success and quality of your Ph.D. research. While it may be perfectly normal for your topic to evolve as you progress in your research and make discoveries, the significance of the right PhD thesis topic cannot be overstated.  

The path to earning a PhD often lasts several years. To maintain the motivation and unwavering commitment throughout this journey, you must have a genuine interest in the subject matter you choose to explore. Your enthusiasm can be a driving force, leading you to overcome obstacles and persist in your academic pursuits.  

Let’s explore some methods to help you navigate the process of PhD topic selection, from brainstorming to finalizing your proposal.¹²³

  • Focus on your field of study –  It is always a good idea to consider your past research experiences and what questions or problems intrigue you. Remember, while the subject of your PhD should definitely interest you, it should also contribute to the existing body of knowledge in your field. Deeply engaging with subjects that genuinely captivate you can lead to both academic excellence and personal fulfillment. Therefore, take time to evaluate trending PhD topics carefully – this can also help you make your choice. 
  • Review relevant academic literature –  Immerse yourself in the literature of your field. Conduct thorough research to identify gaps, controversies, or unexplored avenues in current research. The existing body of knowledge can provide invaluable insights into potential research areas. 
  • Assess available resources –  It is   critical to   assess the feasibility of your chosen topic. Consider the resources, data, and tools required to conduct your research. Ensure that you have access to the necessary resources and that your chosen PhD thesis topic aligns with your academic and financial capabilities. 
  • Seek guidance from trusted advisors –  Consulting with experienced mentors and advisors is essential. They can provide guidance, suggest refinements to your topic, and help you avoid potential pitfalls. Their insights can be invaluable in shaping your research direction. 

Table of Contents

Formulating a Focused Research Question  

After PhD topic selection, the next step is to refine it into a straightforward research question. Your research question should be specific, relevant, and well-defined. It should be detailed enough to guide your research and provide clear direction while also leaving room for exploration and analysis. Consider the significance of your question – why is it important, and what contributions can your research make to the field?  

Creating a Research Proposal  

Once you have a well-defined research question, you will need to create a research proposal. This document is a blueprint for your entire research efforts. In the research proposal, you will outline the precise scope of your study, the objectives you aim to achieve, the methodology you intend to employ, and the anticipated outcomes of your research.  

Your research proposal typically goes through a thorough review and approval process involving critical evaluation and feedback from your academic advisors. This scrutiny ensures that your research is not only academically sound but also aligns with the standards and expectations of your academic institution. 

The approval of your research proposal marks the culmination of your efforts to refine your PhD research topic. This process finalizes your research topic and sets the stage for the beginning of your PhD journey. 

Evolution of Your PhD Research Topic  

It’s important to remember that choosing a PhD thesis topic can be daunting, and it’s okay for your topic to evolve as you progress through your doctoral studies. New findings and interesting discoveries may lead you in unexpected directions. This adaptability is a natural part of the PhD journey. 4

Your Ph.D. dissertation serves a dual purpose: enhancing your understanding of your field and making valuable contributions to it. While it doesn’t need to be groundbreaking, it must demonstrate originality and your research and argumentation skills. In essence, a Ph.D. program aims to identify scholars capable of making noteworthy contributions to their fields. Thus, your dissertation is a critical milestone in your academic career, and it all begins with the careful selection of your PhD research topic.5 

References:  

  • How to Choose a Dissertation Topic For Your Doctoral Degree. Walden University website.  https://www.waldenu.edu/online-doctoral-programs/resource/how-to-choose-a-dissertation-topic-for-your-doctoral-degree  
  • How to Choose a PhD Topic. Doctoral Journey, Grand Canyon University website; August 2020.  https://www.gcu.edu/blog/doctoral-journey/how-choose-phd-topic  
  • How do you select a research topic for your dissertation or thesis? LinkedIn Higher Education article, November 2023.  https://www.linkedin.com/advice/1/how-do-you-select-research-topic-your-dissertation  
  • How to decide on a PhD topic. The University of Queensland website, April 2022.  https://study.uq.edu.au/stories/how-to-decide-phd-topic  
  • John Komlos, John Goldsmith. How does one choose a dissertation topic? IIT Delhi.  https://web.iitd.ac.in/~mamidala/HTMLobj-155/How_to_choose_a_PhD_topic.htm  

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  • How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

Published on October 12, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on September 5, 2024.

Structure of a research proposal

A research proposal describes what you will investigate, why it’s important, and how you will conduct your research.

The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements:

Introduction

Literature review.

  • Research design

Reference list

While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping you get organized and feel confident in the path forward you choose to take.

Table of contents

Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research proposals.

Academics often have to write research proposals to get funding for their projects. As a student, you might have to write a research proposal as part of a grad school application , or prior to starting your thesis or dissertation .

In addition to helping you figure out what your research can look like, a proposal can also serve to demonstrate why your project is worth pursuing to a funder, educational institution, or supervisor.

Research proposal aims
Show your reader why your project is interesting, original, and important.
Demonstrate your comfort and familiarity with your field.
Show that you understand the current state of research on your topic.
Make a case for your .
Demonstrate that you have carefully thought about the data, tools, and procedures necessary to conduct your research.
Confirm that your project is feasible within the timeline of your program or funding deadline.

Research proposal length

The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.

One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.

Download our research proposal template

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Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.

  • Example research proposal #1: “A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management”
  • Example research proposal #2: “Medical Students as Mediators of Change in Tobacco Use”

Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:

  • The proposed title of your project
  • Your supervisor’s name
  • Your institution and department

The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.

Your introduction should:

  • Introduce your topic
  • Give necessary background and context
  • Outline your  problem statement  and research questions

To guide your introduction , include information about:

  • Who could have an interest in the topic (e.g., scientists, policymakers)
  • How much is already known about the topic
  • What is missing from this current knowledge
  • What new insights your research will contribute
  • Why you believe this research is worth doing

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review  shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.

In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:

  • Comparing and contrasting the main theories, methods, and debates
  • Examining the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches
  • Explaining how will you build on, challenge, or synthesize prior scholarship

Following the literature review, restate your main  objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.

Building a research proposal methodology
? or  ? , , or research design?
, )? ?
, , , )?
?

To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasize again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.

For example, your results might have implications for:

  • Improving best practices
  • Informing policymaking decisions
  • Strengthening a theory or model
  • Challenging popular or scientific beliefs
  • Creating a basis for future research

Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .

Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.

Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.

Download our research schedule template

Example research schedule
Research phase Objectives Deadline
1. Background research and literature review 20th January
2. Research design planning and data analysis methods 13th February
3. Data collection and preparation with selected participants and code interviews 24th March
4. Data analysis of interview transcripts 22nd April
5. Writing 17th June
6. Revision final work 28th July

If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.

Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:

  • Cost : exactly how much money do you need?
  • Justification : why is this cost necessary to complete the research?
  • Source : how did you calculate the amount?

To determine your budget, think about:

  • Travel costs : do you need to go somewhere to collect your data? How will you get there, and how much time will you need? What will you do there (e.g., interviews, archival research)?
  • Materials : do you need access to any tools or technologies?
  • Help : do you need to hire any research assistants for the project? What will they do, and how much will you pay them?

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

  • Sampling methods
  • Simple random sampling
  • Stratified sampling
  • Cluster sampling
  • Likert scales
  • Reproducibility

 Statistics

  • Null hypothesis
  • Statistical power
  • Probability distribution
  • Effect size
  • Poisson distribution

Research bias

  • Optimism bias
  • Cognitive bias
  • Implicit bias
  • Hawthorne effect
  • Anchoring bias
  • Explicit bias

Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .

Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.

I will compare …

A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.

Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.

Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.

The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.

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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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Instant insights, infinite possibilities

61 intriguing psychology research topics to explore

Last updated

11 January 2024

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

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Psychology is an incredibly diverse, critical, and ever-changing area of study in the medical and health industries. Because of this, it’s a common area of study for students and healthcare professionals.

We’re walking you through picking the perfect topic for your upcoming paper or study. Keep reading for plenty of example topics to pique your interest and curiosity.

  • How to choose a psychology research topic

Exploring a psychology-based topic for your research project? You need to pick a specific area of interest to collect compelling data. 

Use these tips to help you narrow down which psychology topics to research:

Focus on a particular area of psychology

The most effective psychological research focuses on a smaller, niche concept or disorder within the scope of a study. 

Psychology is a broad and fascinating area of science, including everything from diagnosed mental health disorders to sports performance mindset assessments. 

This gives you plenty of different avenues to explore. Having a hard time choosing? Check out our list of 61 ideas further down in this article to get started.

Read the latest clinical studies

Once you’ve picked a more niche topic to explore, you need to do your due diligence and explore other research projects on the same topic. 

This practice will help you learn more about your chosen topic, ask more specific questions, and avoid covering existing projects. 

For the best results, we recommend creating a research folder of associated published papers to reference throughout your project. This makes it much easier to cite direct references and find inspiration down the line.

Find a topic you enjoy and ask questions

Once you’ve spent time researching and collecting references for your study, you finally get to explore. 

Whether this research project is for work, school, or just for fun, having a passion for your research will make the project much more enjoyable. (Trust us, there will be times when that is the only thing that keeps you going.) 

Now you’ve decided on the topic, ask more nuanced questions you might want to explore. 

If you can, pick the direction that interests you the most to make the research process much more enjoyable.

  • 61 psychology topics to research in 2024

Need some extra help starting your psychology research project on the right foot? Explore our list of 61 cutting-edge, in-demand psychology research topics to use as a starting point for your research journey.

  • Psychology research topics for university students

As a university student, it can be hard to pick a research topic that fits the scope of your classes and is still compelling and unique. 

Here are a few exciting topics we recommend exploring for your next assigned research project:

Mental health in post-secondary students

Seeking post-secondary education is a stressful and overwhelming experience for most students, making this topic a great choice to explore for your in-class research paper. 

Examples of post-secondary mental health research topics include:

Student mental health status during exam season

Mental health disorder prevalence based on study major

The impact of chronic school stress on overall quality of life

The impacts of cyberbullying

Cyberbullying can occur at all ages, starting as early as elementary school and carrying through into professional workplaces. 

Examples of cyberbullying-based research topics you can study include:

The impact of cyberbullying on self-esteem

Common reasons people engage in cyberbullying 

Cyberbullying themes and commonly used terms

Cyberbullying habits in children vs. adults

The long-term effects of cyberbullying

  • Clinical psychology research topics

If you’re looking to take a more clinical approach to your next project, here are a few topics that involve direct patient assessment for you to consider:

Chronic pain and mental health

Living with chronic pain dramatically impacts every aspect of a person’s life, including their mental and emotional health. 

Here are a few examples of in-demand pain-related psychology research topics:

The connection between diabetic neuropathy and depression

Neurological pain and its connection to mental health disorders

Efficacy of meditation and mindfulness for pain management

The long-term effects of insomnia

Insomnia is where you have difficulty falling or staying asleep. It’s a common health concern that impacts millions of people worldwide. 

This is an excellent topic because insomnia can have a variety of causes, offering many research possibilities. 

Here are a few compelling psychology research topics about insomnia you could investigate:

The prevalence of insomnia based on age, gender, and ethnicity

Insomnia and its impact on workplace productivity

The connection between insomnia and mental health disorders

Efficacy and use of melatonin supplements for insomnia

The risks and benefits of prescription insomnia medications

Lifestyle options for managing insomnia symptoms

The efficacy of mental health treatment options

Management and treatment of mental health conditions is an ever-changing area of study. If you can witness or participate in mental health therapies, this can make a great research project. 

Examples of mental health treatment-related psychology research topics include:

The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with severe anxiety

The benefits and drawbacks of group vs. individual therapy sessions

Music therapy for mental health disorders

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for patients with depression 

  • Controversial psychology research paper topics

If you are looking to explore a more cutting-edge or modern psychology topic, you can delve into a variety of controversial and topical options:

The impact of social media and digital platforms

Ever since access to internet forums and video games became more commonplace, there’s been growing concern about the impact these digital platforms have on mental health. 

Examples of social media and video game-related psychology research topics include:

The effect of edited images on self-confidence

How social media platforms impact social behavior

Video games and their impact on teenage anger and violence

Digital communication and the rapid spread of misinformation

The development of digital friendships

Psychotropic medications for mental health

In recent years, the interest in using psychoactive medications to treat and manage health conditions has increased despite their inherently controversial nature. 

Examples of psychotropic medication-related research topics include:

The risks and benefits of using psilocybin mushrooms for managing anxiety

The impact of marijuana on early-onset psychosis

Childhood marijuana use and related prevalence of mental health conditions

Ketamine and its use for complex PTSD (C-PTSD) symptom management

The effect of long-term psychedelic use and mental health conditions

  • Mental health disorder research topics

As one of the most popular subsections of psychology, studying mental health disorders and how they impact quality of life is an essential and impactful area of research. 

While studies in these areas are common, there’s always room for additional exploration, including the following hot-button topics:

Anxiety and depression disorders

Anxiety and depression are well-known and heavily researched mental health disorders. 

Despite this, we still don’t know many things about these conditions, making them great candidates for psychology research projects:

Social anxiety and its connection to chronic loneliness

C-PTSD symptoms and causes

The development of phobias

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) behaviors and symptoms

Depression triggers and causes

Self-care tools and resources for depression

The prevalence of anxiety and depression in particular age groups or geographic areas

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a complex and multi-faceted area of psychology research. 

Use your research skills to learn more about this condition and its impact by choosing any of the following topics:

Early signs of bipolar disorder

The incidence of bipolar disorder in young adults

The efficacy of existing bipolar treatment options

Bipolar medication side effects

Cognitive behavioral therapy for people with bipolar 

Schizoaffective disorder

Schizoaffective disorder is often stigmatized, and less common mental health disorders are a hotbed for new and exciting research. 

Here are a few examples of interesting research topics related to this mental health disorder:

The prevalence of schizoaffective disorder by certain age groups or geographic locations

Risk factors for developing schizoaffective disorder

The prevalence and content of auditory and visual hallucinations

Alternative therapies for schizoaffective disorder

  • Societal and systematic psychology research topics

Modern society’s impact is deeply enmeshed in our mental and emotional health on a personal and community level. 

Here are a few examples of societal and systemic psychology research topics to explore in more detail:

Access to mental health services

While mental health awareness has risen over the past few decades, access to quality mental health treatment and resources is still not equitable. 

This can significantly impact the severity of a person’s mental health symptoms, which can result in worse health outcomes if left untreated. 

Explore this crucial issue and provide information about the need for improved mental health resource access by studying any of the following topics:

Rural vs. urban access to mental health resources

Access to crisis lines by location

Wait times for emergency mental health services

Inequities in mental health access based on income and location

Insurance coverage for mental health services

Systemic racism and mental health

Societal systems and the prevalence of systemic racism heavily impact every aspect of a person’s overall health.

Researching these topics draws attention to existing problems and contributes valuable insights into ways to improve access to care moving forward.

Examples of systemic racism-related psychology research topics include: 

Access to mental health resources based on race

The prevalence of BIPOC mental health therapists in a chosen area

The impact of systemic racism on mental health and self-worth

Racism training for mental health workers

The prevalence of mental health disorders in discriminated groups

LGBTQIA+ mental health concerns

Research about LGBTQIA+ people and their mental health needs is a unique area of study to explore for your next research project. It’s a commonly overlooked and underserved community.

Examples of LGBTQIA+ psychology research topics to consider include:

Mental health supports for queer teens and children

The impact of queer safe spaces on mental health

The prevalence of mental health disorders in the LGBTQIA+ community

The benefits of queer mentorship and found family

Substance misuse in LQBTQIA+ youth and adults

  • Collect data and identify trends with Dovetail

Psychology research is an exciting and competitive study area, making it the perfect choice for projects or papers.

Take the headache out of analyzing your data and instantly access the insights you need to complete your next psychology research project by teaming up with Dovetail today.

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How to Write a PhD Research Proposal

PhD research proposal

Starting on PhD research is a big step in a researcher’s academic journey, and submitting a research proposal is a significant part of it. Indeed, many PhD scholars seek guidance on how to write a PhD research proposal , which is the foundational document that outlines the scope, objectives, and methodology of their prospective doctoral study. This article takes a look at the essential elements of a PhD research proposal and discuss practical steps to help develop an effective and strong document.  

What is a PhD Research Proposal ?  

Think of a PhD research proposal as a blueprint for your research. It lays out the main questions you want to seek answers to in your study, and presents an overview of the field you are planning to dive into. The PhD research proposal is not just about summarizing what is already available in the public domain. It is a critical document that demonstrates the feasibility, significance, and originality of the proposed research, and therefore, plays a crucial role in influencing admission decisions and securing funding opportunities. It also explains how your research is different and new and underscores the unique angles, perspectives and originality of your area of study.[ 1]    

Why is a PhD Research Proposal Needed?  

Even though your research proposal focuses on what you plan to do in the future, supervisors and funders also want to see what you have already achieved academically. Their interest lies in how well you understand the existing research, including recent studies and discussions in your academic field.   

Therefore, it is essential to showcase your awareness about gaps in current knowledge and how your research will develop new knowledge and perspectives. Presenting a clear and detailed picture of this background is critical.[ 2]  

How to Structure Your PhD Research Proposal ?  

Research proposals can vary based on the institution you wish to send the proposal to or your subject of study, but there is a broad structure that needs to be followed.[ 3][4][5]  A good PhD research proposal structure should highlight what makes your idea unique, feasible, and significant.   

Follow these proven tips to structure a PhD research proposal and make it stand out:  

  • Provisional Title: The title should not only describe the subject matter but also hint at your approach or main question.   
  • Key Question: The key question is crucial for defining the scope and purpose of the research, making sure everything stays clear and organized.  
  • Topic Description: This section serves to introduce readers to the topic being studied, outlines its key focus areas, and helps establish a clear context for the study.   
  • Existing Knowledge: Here, researchers are required to provide a brief outline of existing knowledge drawn from seminal works, recent research findings, and ongoing debates and highlight gaps in the literature, demonstrating their awareness of existing scholarship.  
  • Detailed Bibliography: A detailed bibliography not only reflects the thoroughness of the literature review but also provides credibility to the proposed study. It allows reviewers to assess the quality and relevance of sources and enables them to gauge the scholarly merit of the PhD proposal.  
  • Research Methodology: Details of a comprehensive plan outlining the methodology, procedures, and techniques that will be employed to address the research objectives are included here. Methodology includes information on any special facilities, resources, or equipment required for data collection, analysis, or experimentation.   
  • Research Plan: This section provides a structured outline of the tasks and activities to be undertaken, along with their respective deadlines or milestones. It includes key phases such as literature review, data collection, analysis, and writing up the findings.   

How Long Should a PhD Research Proposal be?  

A research proposal typically spans approximately 2,500 words, although there is flexibility in the length as there is no strict upper or lower limit. However, the length may vary depending on the requirements of the institution or funding agency.   

Tips for Writing Your PhD Research Proposal  

Now that you understand the structure of a PhD research proposal , here are some tips to help you craft a compelling document: [7]    

  • Start early: Begin drafting your research proposal well in advance to allow yourself ample time for revisions and refinement.   
  • Be specific: Provide clear and detailed explanations of your objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.   
  • Seek feedback: Share your proposal with peers or advisors to receive constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement.   
  • Write clearly and concisely: Use clear and concise language to convey your ideas effectively, avoiding unnecessary jargon or technical terms.   
  • Be ethical: Address any ethical considerations related to your research, such as participant consent or data privacy.  
  • Revise and proofread: Take time to revise, proofread and proofread again. Best to weed out any inconsistencies and errors for a favourable impression and to clearly communicate your ideas.  
  • Be passionate: Clearly convey your enthusiasm for the research topic and potential impact of your proposed study. Let your passion for your research topic shine through your proposal.  

References:  

  • How to write a PhD research proposal – University of Liverpool  
  • How to write a successful research proposal – Prospects  
  • How to write a good PhD proposal – The University of Queensland  
  • Writing a research proposal – Sociological Studies – The University of Sheffield  
  • Writing a Good PhD Research Proposal – Researchgate  
  • Guidelines to Writing a Research Proposal – University of Oxford  
  • Top tips for writing your research proposal – University of Birmingham  

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Related Reads:

  • How to Write the First Draft of a Research Paper with Paperpal? 
  • Research Funding Basics: What Should a Grant Proposal Include?
  • How to Write Your Research Paper in APA Format

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How to nail your PhD proposal and get accepted

Bethany Fagan

Bethany Fagan Head of Content Marketing at PandaDoc

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Olga Asheychik

Olga Asheychik Senior Web Analytics Manager at PandaDoc

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A good PhD research proposal may be the deciding factor between acceptance and approval into your desired program or finding yourself back at the drawing board. Being accepted for a PhD placement is no easy task, and this is why your PhD proposal needs to truly stand out among a sea of submissions.

That’s why a PhD research proposal is important: It formally outlines the intended research, including methodology, timeline, feasibility, and many other factors that need to be taken into consideration.

Here is a closer look at the PhD proposal process and what it should look like.

→DOWNLOAD NOW: FREE PHD PROPOSAL TEMPLATE

Key takeaways

  • A PhD proposal summarizes the research project you intend to conduct as part of your PhD program.
  • These proposals are relatively short (1000-2000 words), and should include all basic information and project goals, including the methodologies/strategies you intend to use in order to accomplish them.
  • Formats are varied. You may be able to create your own formats, but your college or university may have a required document structure that you should follow.

What is a PhD proposal?

In short, a PhD research proposal is a summary of the project you intend to undertake as part of your PhD program.

It should pose a specific question or idea, make a case for the research, and explain the predicted outcomes of that research.

However, while your PhD proposal may predict expected outcomes, it won’t fully answer your questions for the reader.

Your research into the topic will provide that answer.

Usually, a PhD proposal contains the following elements:

  • A clear question that you intend to answer through copious amounts of study and research.
  • Your plan to answer that question, including any methodologies, frameworks, and resources required to adequately find the answer.
  • Why your question or project is significant to your specific field of study.
  • How your proposal impacts, challenges, or improves the existing body of knowledge around a given topic.
  • Why your work is important and why you should be the one to receive this opportunity.

In terms of length when writing a PhD proposal, there isn’t a universal answer.

Some institutions will require a short, concise proposal (1000 words), while others allow for a greater amount of flexibility in the length and format of the proposal.

Fortunately, most institutions will provide some guidelines regarding the format and length of your research proposal, so you should have a strong idea of your requirements before you begin.

Benefits of a strong PhD application

While the most obvious benefit of having a strong PhD application is being accepted to the PhD program , there are other reasons to build the strongest PhD application you can:

Better funding opportunities

Many PhD programs offer funding to students , which can be used to cover tuition fees and may provide a stipend for living expenses.

The stronger your PhD application, the better your chances of being offered funding opportunities that can alleviate financial burdens and allow you to focus on your research.

Enhanced academic credentials

A strong PhD application, particularly in hot-button areas of study, can lead to better career opportunities in academics or across a variety of industries.

Opportunities for networking and research

Research proposals that are very well grounded can provide footholds to networking opportunities and mentorships that would not be otherwise available.

However, creating an incredible proposal isn’t always easy.

In fact, it’s easy to get confused by the process since it requires a lot of procedural information.

Many institutions also place a heavy emphasis on using the correct proposal structure.

That doesn’t have to be the issue, though.

Often, pre-designed templates, like the PandaDoc research proposal templates or PhD proposal templates provided by the institution of your choice, can do most of the heavy lifting for you.

phd proposal topics

Research Proposal Template

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How to write a Phd proposal with a clear structure

We know that the prospect of writing a research proposal for PhD admission may appear the stuff of nightmares. Even more so if you are new to producing a piece such as this.

But, when you get down to the nitty gritty of what it is, it really isn’t so intimidating. When writing your PhD proposal you need to show that your PhD is worth it, achievable, and that you have the ability to do it at your chosen university.

With all of that in mind, let’s take a closer look at each section of a standard PhD research proposal and the overall structure.

1. Front matter

The first pages of your PhD proposal should outline the basic information about the project. That will include each of the following:

Project title

Typically placed on the first page, your title should be engaging enough to attract attention and clear enough that readers will understand what you’re trying to achieve.

Many proposals also include a secondary headline to further (concisely) clarify the main concept.

Contact information

Depending on the instructions provided by your institution, you may need to include your basic contact information with your proposal.

Some institutions may ask for blind submissions and ask that you omit identifying information, so check the program guidelines to be sure.

Research supervisor

If you already have a supervisor for the project, you’ll typically want to list that information.

Someone who is established in the field can add credibility to your proposal, particularly if your project requires extensive funding or has special considerations.

The guidelines from your PhD program should provide some guidance regarding any other auxiliary information that you should add to the front of your proposal.

Be sure to check all documentation to ensure that everything fits into the designated format.

2. Goals, summaries, and objectives

Once you’ve added the basic information to your document, you’ll need to get into the meat of your PhD proposal.

Depending on your institution, your research proposal may need to follow a rigid format or you may have the flexibility to add various sections and fully explain your concepts.

These sections will primarily be focused on providing high-level overviews surrounding your PhD proposal, including most of the following:

Overall aims, objectives, and goals

In these sections, you’ll need to state plainly what you aim to accomplish with your PhD research.

If awarded funding, what questions will your PHd proposal seek to answer? What theories will you test? What concepts will you explore in your research?

Briefly, how would you summarize your approach to this project?

Provide high-level summaries detailing how you mean to achieve your answers, what the predicted outcomes of your PhD research might be, and precisely what you intend to test or discover.

Significance

Why does your research matter? Unlike with many other forms of academic study (such as a master’s thesis ), doctorate-level research often pushes the bounds of specific fields or contributes to a given body of work in some unique way.

How will your proposed PhD research do those things?

Background details

Because PhD research is about pushing boundaries, adding background context regarding the current state of affairs in your given field can help readers better understand why you want to pursue this research and how you arrived at this specific point of interest.

While the information here may (or may not) be broken into multiple sections, the content here is largely designed to provide a high-level overview of your PhD proposal and entice readers to dig deeper into the methodologies and angles of approach in future sections.

Because so much of this section relies on the remainder of your document, it’s sometimes better to skip this portion of the PhD proposal until the later sections are complete and then circle back to it.

That way, you can provide concise summaries that refer to fully defined research methods that you’ve already explained in subsequent areas.

3. Methodologies and plans

Unlike a master’s thesis or a similar academic document, PhD research is designed to push the boundaries of its subject matter in some way.

The idea behind doctoral research is to expand the field with new insights and viewpoints that are the culmination of years of research and study, combined with a deep familiarity of the topic at hand.

The methodologies and work plans you provide will give advisors some insights into how you plan to conduct your research.

While there is no one right way to develop this section, you’ll need to include a few key details:

Research methods

Are there specific research methods you plan to use to conduct your PhD research?

Are you conducting experiments? Conducting qualitative research? Surveying specific individuals in a given environment?

Benefits and drawbacks of your approach

Regardless of your approach to your topic, there will be upsides and downsides to that methodology.

Explain what you feel are the primary benefits to your research method, where there are potential flaws, and how you plan to account for those shortfalls.

Choice of methodology

Why did you choose a given methodology?

What makes it the best method (or collection of methods) for your research and/or specific use case?

Outline of proposed work

What work is required for PhD research to be complete?

What steps will you need to take in order to capture the appropriate information? How will you complete those steps?

Schedule of work (including timelines/deadlines)

How long will it take you to complete each stage or step of your project?

If your PhDproject will take several years, you may need to provide specifics for more immediate timelines up front while future deadlines may be flexible or estimated.

There is some flexibility here.

It’s unlikely that your advisors will expect you to have the answer for every question regarding how you plan to approach your body of research.

When trying to push the boundaries of any given topic, it’s expected that some things may not go to plan.

However, you should do your best to make timelines and schedules of work that are consistent with your listed goals.

Remember : At the end of your work, you are expected to have a body of original research that is complete within the scope and limitations of the PhD proposal you set forth.

If your advisors feel that your subject matter is too broad, they may encourage you to narrow the scope to better fit into more standardized expectations.

4. Resources and citations

No PhD research proposal is complete without a full list of the resources required to carry out the project and references to help prove and validate the research.

Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to submit in order to explain costs and prove the validity of your proposal:

Estimated costs and resources

Most doctoral programs offer some level of funding for these projects.

To take advantage of those funds, you’ll need to submit a budget of estimated costs so that assessors can better understand the financial requirements.

This might include equipment, expenses for fieldwork or travel, and more.

Citations and bibliographies

No matter your field of study, doctoral research is built on the data and observations provided by past contributors.

Because of this, you’ll need to provide citations and sources referenced in your PhD proposal documentation.

Particularly when it comes to finances and funding, it might be tempting to downplay the cost of the project.

However, it’s best to provide a realistic estimate in terms of costs so that you have enough of a budget to cover the PhD research.

Adjustments can be made at a later date, particularly as you conduct more research and dive further into the project.

Resources are often presented in the form of a table to make things easier to track and identify.

Item Qty. Cost Subtotal Total
Project Allowance
Translator 3 months $500 $1,500
Transportation within state 3 months $400 $1,200
Interview software 1 month $30 $30
Recording equipment 1 $2,400 $2,400
Rent (Nigeria) 3 months $400 $1,200
Groceries (Nigeria) 3 months $500 $1,500
$8,100
Jet Travel
San Diego – Nigeria (roundtrip) 6 $600 $3,600 $3,600
Total Project Allowance $11,700
Administrative fees $240
Total Resources $11,940

Using PhD proposal templates

Aside from any guidelines set forth by your institution, there are no particularly strict rules when it comes to the format of PhD proposals.

Your supervisor will be more than capable of guiding you through the process.

However, since everything is so structured and formal, you might want to use a PhD proposal template to help you get started.

Templates can help you stay on track and make sure your research proposal follows a certain logic.

A lot of proposal software solutions offer templates for different types of proposals, including PhD proposals.

But, should you use Phd proposal templates? Here are some pros and cons to help you make a decision.

  • Expedites the proposal process.
  • Helps you jumpstart the process with a flexible document structure.
  • Often provides sections with pre-filled examples.
  • Looks better than your average Word document.
  • May be limiting if you adhere to it too much.
  • Might not be perfectly suited to your specific field of research, requiring some customization.

In our PhD research proposal template , we give you just enough direction to help you follow through but we don’t limit your creativity to a point that you can’t express yourself and all the nuances of your research.

For almost all sections, you get a few useful PhD research proposal examples to point you in the right direction.

The template provides you with a typical PhD proposal structure that’s perfect for almost all disciplines.

It can come in quite handy when you have everything planned out in your head but you’re just having trouble putting it onto the page!

Writing a PhD proposal that convinces

Writing and completing a PhD proposal might be confusing at first.

You need to follow a certain logic and share all the required information without going too long or sharing too much about the project.

And, while your supervisor will certainly be there to guide you, the brunt of the work will still fall on your shoulders.

That’s why you need to stay informed, do your research, and don’t give up until you feel comfortable with what you’ve created.

If you want to get a head start, you might want to consider our research proposal template .

It will offer you a structure to follow when writing a PhD proposal and give you an idea on what to write in each section.

Start your 14 days trial with PandaDoc and check out all the tools you’ll have at your disposal!

Research proposals for PhD admission: tips and advice

One of the most important tips for any piece of writing is to know your audience. The staff reviewing your PhD proposal are going through a pile of them, so you need to make sure yours stands within a few seconds of opening it.

The way to do this is by demonstrating value and impact. Academic work is often written for a niche community of researchers in one field, so you need to demonstrate why your work would be valuable to people in that area.

The people reviewing your proposal will likely be in that field. So your proposal should be a little like a sales pitch: you need to write something engaging that identifies with the “customer”, speaks to a problem they’re having, and shows them a solution.

Taking some inspiration from the former University of Chicago professor Larry McEnerney , here are some ideas to keep in mind…

  • It’s common for undergraduates and even seasoned academics to write in a specific format or style to demonstrate their understanding and signal that they’re part of the academic community. Instead, you want to write in such a way that actually engages the reader.
  • Identify an uncharted or underexplored knowledge gap in your field, and show the reader you have what it takes to fill in that gap.
  • Challenge the status quo. Set up an idea that people in your field take for granted — maybe a famous study you think is flawed — and outline how your project could knock it down.
  • This is why it’s important to understand who your audience is. You have to write your proposal in such a way that it’s valuable for reviewers. But within your proposal, you should also clearly define which community of researchers your project is for, what problems they have, and how your project is going to solve those problems.
  • Every community of researchers has their own implicit “codes” and “keywords” that signal understanding. These will be very different in each field and could be very subtle. But just by reading successful PhD research proposal examples in your field, you can get a sense of what those are and decide how you want to employ them in your own work.
  • In this model authors start “at the bottom of the glass” with a very narrow introduction to the idea of the paper, then “fill the glass” with a broader and broader version of the same idea.
  • Instead, follow a “problem-solution” framework. Introduce a problem that’s relevant to your intended reader, then offer a solution. Since “solutions” often raise their own new problems or questions, you can rinse and repeat this framework all the way through any section of your proposal.

But how can you apply that advice? If you’re following something like our research proposal template , here are some actionable ways to get started.

  • Your title should be eye-catching , and signal value by speaking to either a gap in the field or challenging the status quo.
  • Your abstract should speak to a problem in the field, one the reviewers will care about, and clearly outline how you’d like to solve it.
  • When you list the objectives of your proposal , each one should repeat this problem-solution framework. You should concretely state what you want to achieve, and what you’re going to do to achieve it.
  • While you survey your chosen field in the literature review, you should refer back to the knowledge gap or status quo that you intend to work on. This reinforces how important your proposed project is, and how valuable it would be to the community if your project was successful.
  • While listing your research limitations , try to hint at new territory researchers might be able to explore off the back of your work. This illustrates that you’re proposing boundary-pushing work that will really advance knowledge of the field.
  • While you’re outlining your funding requirements , be clear about why each line item is necessary and bring it back to the value of your proposed research. Every cent counts!

Frequently asked questions

How long should a phd proposal be.

There really isn’t a specific rule when it comes to the length of a PhD proposal. However, it’s generally accepted that it should be between 1,000 and 2,000 words.

It’s difficult to elaborate on such a serious project in less than 1,000 words but going over 2,000 is often overkill. You’ll lose people’s attention and water down your points.

What’s the difference between a dissertation proposal and a PhD proposal?

There seems to be some confusion over the terms “dissertation” and “PhD” and how you write proposals for each one. However, “dissertation” is just another name for your PhD research so the proposal for a dissertation would be the same since it’s quite literally the same thing.

Does a PhD proposal include budgeting?

Yes, as mentioned, you need to demonstrate the feasibility of your project within the given time frame and with the resources you need, including budgets. You don’t need to be exact, but you need to have accurate estimates for everything.

How is a PhD proposal evaluated?

This will change from one institution to another but these things will generally have a big impact on the reviewers:

  • The contribution of the project to the field.
  • Design and feasibility of the project.
  • The validity of the methodology and objectives.
  • The supervisor and their role in the field.

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Originally published June 9, 2023, updated February 6, 2024

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phd proposal topics

Research Proposal Example/Sample

Full Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template

Dissertation Coaching

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

Free Webinar: How To Write A Research Proposal

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.

Research Proposal Bootcamp

Ace Your Research Proposal

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14 Comments

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Research Proposal Topics: 503 Ideas, Sample, & Guide [2024]

Do you have to write a research proposal and can’t choose one from the professor’s list? This article may be exactly what you need.

We will provide you with the most up-to-date undergraduate and postgraduate topic ideas. Moreover, we will share the secrets of the winning research proposal writing.

Here, you will find possible ideas for research proposal topics from the best custom writing service that may be used to create your own proposal project as well as a direction for further investigation! So let’s start!

  • 🔬 Research Proposal Definition
  • IT Research
  • 📝 Writing Guide
  • 📄 Proposal Sample

🔬 Research Proposal: Definition

First of all, let’s make clear what a research proposal is. A research proposal is a type of paper you write to show others that you have a project to investigate. A research proposal demonstrates the following:

✔️Why the you chose is worth attention.
✔️What you will take to explore the topic.
✔️What and you will use in your research.

The purpose of proposal writing is to persuade others that your topic needs to be investigated. Your task is to write a well-structured text that covers all the necessary points. Make sure that everyone can understand what you wish to investigate, why it’s important, and how you are going to do it.

💡 Research Proposal Topics

Now that you know what a research proposal is, it’s time to begin the work.

What is the first thing to be done, then?

That’s right—you need to choose a topic!

The list of research proposal topics below will help you start the process. Some of the research topics are simple, while others are quite complicated. The more difficult problems also contain a short description, so that you can understand immediately whether that topic would be interesting for you.

Political Science Research Proposal Topics

Researching political science gives you plenty of room for exploration. Do you want to investigate local or global politics? Are you interested in historical or contemporary issues? The number of options is overwhelming. Have a look at this list to make choosing easier:

  • Fascism and Nazism: the contemporary usage of the terms and their meaning in the history of politics. Nowadays, the terms “Fascism” and “Nazism” are often used interchangeably. The terms are originally meant to refer to Italian and German political regimes. However, the doctrines themselves have important differences.
  • Contemporary religious extremism and its political and economic basis. The modern Western society is ambiguous. On the one hand, religious tolerance endorsed; on the other, religious extremism is often used to add some fuel to the fire of intolerance. Understanding the economic and political basis of religious extremism might prove helpful in breaking the illusions of both sides.
  • Bernie Sanders and Jeremy Corbyn: socialists in the contemporary U.K. and U.S. politics. The U.S. Democratic Party devised its failure during the 2016 Presidential Elections by selecting Hillary Clinton. She wasn’t very popular with the public, unlike well-loved, but so-scarily-leftist Bernie Sanders. At the same time, Jeremy Corbyn and his supporters were partially successful in addressing the stagnation in the British Labor Party. Comparing the two leftist leaders and their political agenda might serve as an interesting research project topic.
  • Anarchism as a political orientation and a worldview. Anarchism is commonly mistaken for chaos. In fact, it simply means the absence of formal authority and prevalence of grassroots cooperation. Numerous movements exist within anarchism, such as anarcho-syndicalism, anarcho-pacifism, etc. Their proponents have a worldview that radically differs from the “center,” albeit often it’s by no means an extremist one. Classifying and elucidating different anarchist theories and worldviews can prove a worthy research topic.
  • A fragile democracy: the contemporary political crisis in Myanmar. Myanmar has for a long time suffered under the dictatorship of a military junta. The junta only dissolved in 2011, and the National League for Democracy officially rules. Yet, the militaries remain strong and often uncontrollable. The resulting crisis is tragic, and writing about it could be a good topic for a research proposal.
  • The Arab Spring and its impact on the contemporary Middle East. The Arab Spring was a wave of demonstrations, protests, and revolutions in the countries of the Middle East. There was a hope that they would result in more democratic political regimes across the region. However, the results were far from optimistic. The massive impact of this phenomenon makes the Arab Spring an excellent topic example for a research proposal.
  • Sarah Palin and her role in the RNC.
  • Shakespeare and his influence on politics.
  • The military policy of Georgia toward South Ossetia.
  • Racialization of Arab Americans in the post-9/11 era.
  • What countries are most opposed to globalization?
  • The Supreme Court’s close decisions regarding minorities.
  • The social credit system: myths and realities.
  • Why are many people disappointed with the two-party system?
  • Discuss Mexico’s reaction to the US anti-immigration policies.
  • How does religion influence secular countries’ politics?

Research Proposal Topics in Information Technology

In recent years, the demand for IT skills has skyrocketed. This trend is likely to continue for the next few decades. Humanity’s dependency on computers keeps growing. Because of this, solid knowledge in IT makes you an invaluable employee for any company. So, get started by writing about one of our engaging prompts:

  • Traditional envisioning centers on linear tracks. It connects lines to show differences or similarities. Explore how comparative genomics can analyze numerous genomes in 3D surfaces.
  • Real-time feedback in education . Student’s feedback is essential for both teachers and learners. Examine the ways and existing technologies that allow a teacher to get feedback on how students understand the lessons. Suggest concepts aimed at improving the professor-student communication.
  • WLAN Networks: H.264 video transmission. You can assess how to improve cross-layer architecture for video transmission in WLAN Network. Examine ways to enhance video quality performance.
  • Wireless Multimedia Sensor Networks (WMSN): performance. This topic can help you generate a whole list of ideas for further IT studies: frameworks, analysis of existing solutions, etc. You can investigate transport, physical layers, or application of the communication protocol stack.
  • WLAN Network: improvement of FEC algorithms. Explore the possible way to improve FEC schemes in cases of wireless channel loss.
  • Software sizing and pricing: correlation . As you may know, software’s size significantly impacts its estimated price. In your proposal, suggest methods to evaluate and lower software size.
  • Component-based software engineering (CBSE) process: ways to improve. You can choose this topic among other interesting IT project proposal ideas. Investigate how CBSE can shorten the time for production, increase software quality, and reduce its costs.
  • User’s behavior in social networks . Social networks are under the risk of improper users’ behavior. Provide points to detect such behavior and how to prevent it.
  • Education technologies in higher education. Research methods and tools that will enhance constructive alignment in higher education teaching.
  • How can the government potentially abuse facial recognition?
  • Discuss unmanned vehicles from drivers’ perception.
  • 5G: usage barriers and future developments.
  • Review possible solutions to current AI-related issues .
  • Discuss the role of IT in promoting false information.
  • What do massive data breaches mean for regular users?
  • How do social media algorithms impact user experience?
  • Review e-governments and other attempts to digitalize the state.
  • What can happen if we integrate organic processes into robots ?
  • AI in the military : violence mitigation effects.

Computer Science Project Proposal Topics

Technology surrounds us everywhere. The internet, for one, has drastically changed the way we communicate. These developments affect all aspects of our lives. One big area that has significantly benefited from ICT is education.

  • Machine learning use in prediction of students’ success. Analyze how machine learning can be useful in predicting students’ grades and the rates of course completion. You can use this example to get more ideas on measurement teacher’s effectiveness.
  • Students’ profile and study courses. Wrong course choice can lead to poor grades and turn studying into a waste of time. Provide suggestions on how analytics can help in students’ course choices.
  • Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in education. Examine how the use of AR and VR impacts students’ comprehension of the course contents. What effect do AR and VR have on students’ performance?
  • Learning preferences and customized study process. You can analyze how various students’ learning preferences, e.g., Visual, Kinesthetic , etc. can benefit from optimized learning.
  • IoT and teachers’ effectiveness. Provide suggestions on how educators can adjust their teaching styles using IoT devices and sensors.
  • VR and AR roles in the assessment process. Virtual and Augmented Reality can be useful in students’ performance assessment. Suggest ways of how the professor can use VR and AR.
  • Gamification in education. Gamification elements can be found almost everywhere: social media, professional software, and education. Analyze how gamification can be applied to various subjects. Assess the possible student outcomes.
  • Social media and group projects. Social networks, such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, are an integral part of our daily life. Assess how social media can be useful in learning, and, especially, for group projects.
  • Mobile apps: usage growth. Here’s another great sample of quantitative titles. Analyze the factors that impact the usage rate of mobile applications.
  • Will the Internet be available everywhere in the future?
  • Describe preview techniques to compensate for low bandwidth.
  • What are the weak points of financial cybersecurity ?
  • Discuss the risks related to the use of smart appliances.
  • Write about issues with online surveys.
  • Review the trends in medical software development.
  • What health issues are associated with the use of VR devices?
  • Cyberwarfare: restored and new underpinning technologies.
  • Assess the use of e-learning in initial employee integration.
  • Desktop and mobile app versions: how to ensure better functionality.

Business Research Proposal Topics

There’s much more to business than just talking finances. Your topic can be theoretical as well as empirical. Writing about business can cover areas such as strategic planning, leadership, or sustainability.

  • The impact of employee motivation on their performance . Is it true that highly motivated staff work better? And if yes, how much better does it work? The importance of this question warrants its further investigation and may prove a worthwhile topic for your dissertation research proposal.
  • Disaster preparedness plans for the business. In many regions of the world, disasters such as hurricanes or earthquakes occur frequently. The costs and losses of business due to such disasters may be tremendous. Consequently, the ways to make one’s company safe is an excellent research topic in business.
  • Ways to transition to a new organizational culture. Studying the ways to make such a transition smooth and seamless could be a great research paper idea.
  • The most effective leadership styles for various types of businesses. The leadership has a great impact on business performance, but it’s possible that for all types of companies there’s a certain management style that would be most effective. This theme could be a useful and interesting research topic for your proposal.
  • Environmental friendliness of a business: additional costs or a way to make more profit? Many business leaders assume that decreasing the amount of waste their company produces will only result in losses. However, this is not true: eco-friendliness improves business reputation and attracts more clients. Investigating the effect of environmental friendliness on business performance could be an interesting research idea.
  • The impact of various types of stakeholders on the success of a business. Exploring its exact impact on a company may be an excellent idea for your quantitative research proposal.
  • Business management and innovation. Social engineering technologies caused significant changes in marketing, customer-organization relations, communications, etc. Assess how these technologies can be used in business.
  • Effective energy management and its role in sustainable development. If you’re looking for business proposal topics, analyze this title. Provide suggestions on how enterprises can increase their energy effectiveness.
  • Social entrepreneurship in developing countries. How can a business increase its social value without prejudice to its profits? You can use this topic for your master’s or business administration dissertation.
  • Ethics and corporate social responsibility. Ethical issues remain a popular topic for research studies. Point out how corporate responsibility can increase the loyalty of employees.
  • Accounting and accountability. If you’re looking for business quantitative topic examples, explore the connection between accounting and accountability.
  • Business management and its effect on profits . The goal of any company is to make profits. Assess how business management influences company’s losses and profits.
  • Sustainable development : the relationship with business in the 21 st century. How does sustainable development affect business? What does it mean to be a sustainable leader? Give examples of organizations that became successful in the 21st century. What are the factors that have influenced their success?
  • Strategy of communication: old vs. new. Choose a company featuring a new communication strategy. Why did the management of the company decide to use it? Describe the existing practices of communication strategies. What is their effect on the company’s reputation? How do they affect performance and financial outcomes? What difference can a chosen way of communication make to stakeholders?
  • China and the US: cultural and organizational behavior. Why is the Chinese market so attractive for US companies? Give examples of US companies who depend on the Chinese market. What barriers for building a business on the Chinese market are there? What are the best strategies to sell products or services in China? Recommend the best-suited regimen for the introduction of a product. Give information about organizational behavior in China. What makes it unique?
  • New technologies in hospitals. What are the main difficulties associated with new technologies in a medical center? Why is there a need to keep up with the changing technologies? What healthcare issues create the biggest administration barriers? Does it affect the cost? Provide a real-life example.
  • Small businesses vs. big enterprises. What is the current stand of small businesses in your area? How does their performance compare to that of big established brands? Is there a place for small businesses in the next decades, or are they dying out? If that happens, in what way will it affect the economy? What can one do to prevent monopolization of the market?
  • Advertising strategies: how to advertise different types of businesses. What types of ads are known to give the best results market-wise? What advertising strategies work best for big corporations? What about small businesses? Give real-life examples. Does the cost of advertising correlate with marketing success?
  • Inexperienced workers: how can they find a job? Is there a market for people fresh out of colleges and inexperienced workers? What social groups fall under the category? Is the demand for such people reflected in the paychecks? What can be done to maximize their appeal as employees? Will it benefit or harm the economy?
  • Employee reward system: how to boost the workers’ performance? Describe the programs that companies set up to reward employees. Does it affect employees’ motivation? Illustrate your analysis with statistics. What types of rewards are there? Which of them work better? Should a company decide whom to reward?
  • How to implement corporate ethical policy. What is ethical in the corporate world of the 21st century? Does the public image of a company reflect on its sales? Give examples of successful marketing campaigns centered on ethical issues. Can a company’s message affect employees’ productivity?
  • Advertising strategies and the importance of advertising for business.
  • Strategies for running a business.
  • Importance of business planning.
  • How does virtual reality attract customers?
  • What influences employees’ adaptation to new practices?
  • How does competition function in disadvantageous times?
  • Small and medium-sized enterprises: how to survive.
  • Discuss ways of marketing the same product to different generations.
  • Digitalization and supply chain recovery in crises.
  • Out-of-touch leaders: are they useful for business initiatives?

Management Research Proposal Topics

Management is a vital part of every company. That’s why good governance is the key to success. Researching this subject will prove helpful for your future career.

  • Ruskin Bond’s team conflict dynamic model: how to achieve project success. Analyze various conflict types using Ruskin Bond’s team model. What resolutions can improve a project? What can result in the project’s success?
  • How to improve product development using dynamic capability? Do relationships between employees affect their performance? How can they achieve knowledge integration and strategic flexibility? Use a theoretical framework in your study. Analyze the data using structural equation modeling.
  • Allocation of human resources. What are the issues associated with human resource allocation? Investigate the mechanisms of top-down resource allocation. Use empirical research techniques in your research.
  • Project benefit management: how to set effective target benefits? What is the scale of practical target benefits? Validate your research by presenting case studies. Use goal-setting theory in your study. Analyze the dimensions of comprehensiveness, attainability, and specificity.
  • Person-centered vs. team-centered leadership. Describe how to balance a project manager’s style of interaction. Use Archer realist social theory in your research. Conduct the study using mixed methods of data analysis.
  • Project managers. What is their role in internal and external relationship management? Use mixed methods in your research. Categorize the role groups. Illustrate the transition from traditional to new project management.
  • The project’s added value and trust-conflict in an inter-team relationship. Do trust-conflict interactions impact project added value? Investigate relational and calculative trust dimensions. Study the influence of trust-conflict interactions on project added values. Explore task, project, and relationship conflicts.
  • How to encourage the building industry to evolve into a lower carbon construction equivalent. Analyze the effects of building development project processes. How much energy does building consume, and how much are there carbon emissions? Does it affect indoor environmental quality? What are the associated needs of operations management?
  • Project management practices in private organizations. Which project management practices are used in private organizations? What are the sectors of their activity? Examine the influence of managers’ personal characteristics. How do they choose their project management practices? Use a mixed-methods research methodology.
  • Process groups vs. the project life cycle . How are both methods implemented in a project? Collect the data using questionnaires sampled from project managers in your area. Analyze the data using inferential statistics.
  • What are the advantages of Facebook in the e-commerce field ?
  • What are the skills related to management strategies?
  • Why is genuineness a major factor of success?
  • What is a red ocean strategy in social media marketing?
  • The benefits of exponential thinking in management.
  • Virtual human resources: is it a complication?
  • Explore constructive deviance’s role in improving businesses.
  • Ambiguous IT innovations in human resource management.
  • Big data competencies for maintaining managerial competitiveness.
  • Discuss talent cultivation and protection in competitive fields.

MBA Research Proposal Topic Ideas

Time is money. How can you use it more effectively? That’s one of the central questions you can suggest investigating in an MBA research proposal. For more inspiration, check out these ideas:

  • Cost of packaging: does it affect manufacturer’s profitability? What are the most and the least popular types of packaging materials? How does the cost of packaging depend on its type? What are the problems associated with the most popular types of packaging? Give recommendations to improve the packaging strategies.
  • Financial incentives as a tool for boosting workers’ motivation. What types of financial incentives do workers receive in different kinds of organizations? Do organizations recognize the correlation between productivity and financial incentives? Study how to enhance workers’ productivity and motivation.
  • Effective employee selection and recruitment. Does it work as a tool for achieving top productivity in a company? What should one consider in the process of employee selection? How can the knowledge of the labor turnover rate help choose a suitable candidate? How do you identify the candidates most suitable for career promotion?
  • The durability of small scale business start-ups. How can one make sure that they’ve chosen the best project? How does one determine investment appraisal of small business in your area? Does this process benefit both the economy in general and the investors in particular? Can inaccurate methods of project assessment be identified early? What are the ways to avoid low returns?
  • Time management in a company. Study how time is usually managed in companies. What types of work-time organization are there? Why would a company choose unconventional time management techniques? Does it reflect on the productivity of employees? Does it affect the company’s success in general?
  • Ailing industries: will privatization help them? Identify the prospects and problems of ailing industries’ privatization. Conduct a case study. What are the reasons for the ineffectiveness of the service? Will the privatization help the business?
  • Work environment and employees’ productivity. Study how to identify inadequacies of the workplace environment . What physical and psychological discomfort is involved? What solutions can be provided? Examine the environmental factors in a given company. Employ both the investigative and the descriptive approach in your research. Collect data using the interview and survey methods.
  • Strategic human resource management . What are the ways to determine its effectiveness? Are strategic human resource practice and a company’s performance connected? Obtain the information for the study through questionnaire responses. Analyze your findings. Find out whether there is a relationship between strategic resource management and organization performance.
  • Corporate governance. Study its impact on the management of an organization. Who designs and implements the processes and rules practiced in a company? What is the primary force that influences corporate governance? Use research questions, surveys, and questionnaires in your study. Analyze the collected data through mean scores and frequencies. What are the systemic problems militating against corporate governance?
  • Microfinance organizations and their impact on small-scale organizations. How do microfinance organizations encourage banking habits among poorer populations? How can the economic status of the small scale manufacturers be improved by giving them more capital? How can microfinance credit influence a company’s performance? What are the possible drawbacks of this business relationship?
  • Review how leadership relates to job satisfaction .
  • What is the key to success behind family enterprises ?
  • HR training’s direct impact on retaining employees.
  • Managing stakeholder attitude: potential performance implications.
  • What factors are responsible for an organization’s sustainability?
  • How can AI help strategic business management?
  • Discuss business start-ups in the digital age.
  • What happens when law and decision-making collide?
  • Employee commitment during uncertain times.
  • Leadership reinvention: effects for a chosen model.

Business Project Proposal Ideas

Have you been planning to start your own company? Or maybe you’d like to develop a product that makes life easier? A business project research proposal allows you to put your dream on paper. If you don’t have a concrete idea just yet, here is some inspiration:

  • A mobile application to recruit potential staff. The app will involve problem-solving puzzles. It will monitor the time spent on solving them without using outside resources. The top 10 players can be later contacted.
  • A website specializing in collecting customized orders. The website will gather information on what people want to be made. It will send requests to affiliated creators. They, in turn, choose what they can complete based on their specialty.
  • An e-book café and hardware/software funding. It will focus on convenient models with vast libraries. They will also provide customers with food and music.
  • A traditionally animated film in the style of old classics. Most of today’s animated films rely on CGI. Due to the nostalgia factor, a hand-drawn feature could be successful.
  • A representative-operated national food restaurant. The idea is to hire representatives of the culture the restaurant is based on. It may increase engagement with different demographics.
  • A social media website that takes user’s suggestions into account. Competing with more established players in the field is challenging. However, you may take advantage of their known weaknesses. Your website would mind user feedback and thus avoid introducing unpopular changes.
  • Safe-space avenue for online and offline presentations. Minority groups may find it challenging to access busier platforms. Offering them a spot that will guarantee their safety may benefit both parties.
  • A reverse experience school for disabled people. The experiment will follow the principles of inclusivity . People without disabilities would comprise a minority. It would allow disabled people to feel less constrained.
  • A digital platform for aspiring influencers. The service will offer advice and suggest the steps for building an audience.
  • An analog fast food product for vegans. Today’s restaurants offer replacements for meat-based dishes. Still, it’s not always the case. That’s why a product designed with the help of clients’ feedback may become popular.
  • A tattoo studio for writing-based designs.
  • A streaming service for cult classics.
  • A smart hotel for pets.
  • A vintage CD-ROM music production kit.
  • A real-life matchmaking service for single parents.
  • A lactose-free nutritional drink for selling in gyms.
  • A hotline with qualified mental health specialists.
  • A TV show focused on Native American representation.
  • A third-party mediator in a customer-realtor transaction.
  • An organization providing research opportunities for students.

Research Proposal Topics on Education

Education plays a crucial role in our lives. It’s an area where constant research and improvement are incredibly important. Check out these ideas:

  • The importance of early interventions in special education for children with disabilities. Investigating the “why” of it might be an interesting research topic for high school students.
  • The use of innovative technologies in education . The ubiquity of computers and smartphones means that they also used in studies. Finding out new ways in which innovations might assist teachers could be an interesting research paper idea.
  • The effectiveness of online universities in providing education. It could be an exciting research topic idea to compare online institutions to traditional.
  • University education in a narrow specialization: a way to increase professionalism, or to spread ignorance? There exists a trend of providing education in a narrow area or specialty in the contemporary higher education setting. However, traditional universities have also been known to teach their students a wide range of courses. The benefits of an education in a narrow field and the costs of losing the tradition of an all-encompassing education are a worthwhile topic for a Phd. research proposal.
  • Innovative approaches to teaching. The need for the instructor to interact with students is becoming more and more apparent in the contemporary educational setting. Studying the benefits and drawbacks of this approach might be an excellent idea for a research proposal topic list for education majors.
  • The impacts of inclusive education on children without special needs. Inclusive learning is believed to have a positive influence on children with special needs and has become a trend nowadays. However, it’s unclear how such education affects children without special needs, which warrants further investigation of this research topic.

Harassment and bullying have been factors in 75% of shooting incidents.

  • Classroom management techniques for high school. High school teachers often have to deal with disruptive behaviors of their students. Finding out what classroom management techniques work best for this may prove a useful and engaging research topic idea.
  • Problematic children: approaches to managing a child’s temperament . All children have their own personality. It can be difficult for parents to understand how to manage it. Many management approaches are depending on how a child behaves.
  • How parents’ overprotectiveness may cause a child to become anxious? Some children are insecure and worrisome in unfamiliar situations. In this situation, parents should avoid being overprotective. Encouraging a child to explore is the best strategy.
  • Impulsive children: parenting strategies . Parents often struggle with kids whose behavior is hard to predict. There are ways to make it easier. Parents should remain gentle with children. But, at the same time, they should promote their child’s self-discipline.
  • What role does art play in child development? It’s one of the most relevant and exciting topics for research proposals in education. Everyone supports art classes in early childhood development. However, in many countries, art disappears from the list of subjects in middle and high school. Is it the correct approach? How does art affect children’s development?
  • Child development : aesthetic education as a core learning approach. Another great title of research proposal in education, also worth choosing it as a thesis topic. You can look into the benefits of aesthetic education. It helps children to become creative and see things from new points of view.
  • Testing system: should it be reformed? Everyone agrees that there are too many flaws in the current testing system. Not only can it be unfair; it also puts pressure on children and college students. Look into why and how the testing system is flawed and if there is a need to fix it.
  • Does the testing system impact on children’s self-confidence? Tests and exams cause children to develop anxiety and depression. Moreover, this problem may aggravate. It can lead children to develop low self-confidence and hurt their social skills.
  • The purpose of early intervention. Some children need special or extra care and support throughout their development. But how to understand who needs it, and how will they benefit from it? Why would this approach be the best for them?
  • Education and innovative technologies. E-books and tablets are replacing textbooks. Chalkboards are out of use since smart boards are the new solution. Both children and teachers are adapting to the latest technologies. You might research the most recent trends in this topic.
  • Educational apps for children: advantages and disadvantages. Even toddlers can use smartphones and tablets now. Parents might as well use technologies for educational purposes. However, it may be tricky. Some apps combine the story with learning outcome goals and promote creativity. Others might have too much action and sound. This only distracts children from learning.
  • What is the optimal “ screen time” for children ? When parents want some time to rest from kids, they just turn the TV on. Is it harmful or beneficial for children? Try to find out how much time they should spend with it.
  • General education courses in college: are they necessary? Such courses include algebra, biology, and chemistry. But what if a student wants to focus on studying languages? It’s one of the best questions about higher education.
  • Innovative approaches to contacting problematic children.
  • Aesthetic education as a basis for child development .
  • Advantages and disadvantages of a testing system.
  • What’s your opinion on teachers instructing AI replacements?
  • Real-time online classes or asynchronous learning models: what’s better?
  • Assess learning loss in the top universities in 2024.
  • Ineffective civics classes: where did the system fail?
  • What are the health implications of remote teaching?
  • Learning to engineer: aims and instruments.
  • Assess the importance of peer feedback in education.

Special Education Research Proposal Topics

There are many questions regarding the best approach in educating kids with special needs. Should they always study with their peers? Or do they need special classes to tackle their individual requirements? Your research proposal can focus on various aspects. The parents’ roles or the use of technology are compelling examples.

  • Does inclusive education promote empathy in children without special needs? It’s one of the best learning strategies for kids with learning disabilities. No one asks what children without special needs think about it. Still, little kids are open-hearted. Most of them are happy to help their peers with difficulties.
  • Does dyslexia affect a child’s social skills? In the company of loving parents, a child with dyslexia will be OK. As children start socializing, they start noticing the problems with reading. It may lead to shaming and excluding them from social groups.
  • Classroom management for inclusive high schools. Disruptive behavior is a common thing in high schools. However, everything is different when the school is inclusive. Teachers face various challenges every day. New practical ideas in this field may be beneficial.
  • Does early intervention impact children with learning disabilities ? Early intervention includes therapies for those who have issues with learning. Your research might consist of comparing and contrasting those methods. Find out which are the best. You may even try to develop a new approach!
  • Should we educate children about their peers who have special needs? There are training programs for teachers working with kids with learning disabilities. But what about their peers? Would children with special needs feel more support if their classmates were more understanding?
  • Innovative approaches to teaching in special education . More individual interaction between a teacher and each student. In inclusive classes, it’s especially relevant. You would need to look for innovative approaches. Most research proposal questions in education are not as urgent as this one!
  • Does stress influence children with learning disabilities more than others during testing? In this research, focus on the more vulnerable group of students. Special education should address this question with caution.
  • How to identify and prevent reading problems in the early stage. In school, all the learning issues of a child come out. It’s vital to identify the problem immediately to prevent trauma. Look into the root causes of this problem and its possible solutions.
  • Technology integration for children with special needs. This topic is connected with many questions. You would need to address all of them in your research. A sample would look like this: “What are the benefits of technology in special education?”
  • How strict should educators be with children with learning disabilities? Of course, it depends on each individual. Still, there should be some limits. All special education teachers should know how to balance being strict and permissive. Your research can serve as a guide for aspiring teachers!
  • The role of parents in special education. Healthy development of a child with special needs doesn’t end with teachers. Parents also play an important role in their kids’ education. How exactly can they help their child with learning disabilities?
  • The role of computers in accessible school environment.
  • Learning disparity mitigation and special education certificates .
  • Discuss the pros and cons of compromises in inclusive classrooms .
  • What are the main challenges for FAPE’s universal application?
  • Do we need new regulations in special education ?
  • Review current school models for disabled students.
  • Shortage of qualified educators: what can we do?
  • Special education during a pandemic: lessons learned.
  • What do co-occurring needs imply for teachers and students?

Research Proposal Topics in Early Childhood Education

Young children are extremely impressionable. Because of this, early childhood education has a huge impact on kids’ development. Many factors need careful consideration. Among them are learning techniques and the need of incorporating the child’s social background.

  • Executive functions and early childhood education: working memory. It’s easily one of the most interesting research proposal topics in early childhood education. How do children connect their ideas? How does their mind work? And how can we use this in education?
  • Early childhood : brain development through playing. The brain develops most actively during the first two years of our lives. At that age, the brain is especially vulnerable because it reacts to all environmental changes. It’s essential to support children’s development through play and stress reduction.
  • Early childhood development: child care facilities vs. home. Increasingly more mothers prefer to get back to work right after the birth of their children. Daycare services are developing to meet all the child’s needs. However, can it replace the quality time children spend with their parents?
  • Quality child care facility: an overview. What should high-quality child care be like? Parents often face the challenge of picking the right place for their child while they don’t know what to look for. You can provide research comparing and contrasting the best child care facilities in your area.
  • Culture and early childhood education: immigrant families. Culture shapes the behavior and beliefs of small children. Immigrant families especially should always consider it. Education programs need to be adjusted to the cultural differences.
  • How to divorce and not harm a child’s development. We all understand that there can be different life situations, and sometimes it’s better for people to be separated. However, it gets complicated when they are also parents. A child’s mental and emotional health is at risk during the divorce. What are the ways to protect children from this stress?
  • Paternity and early childhood education . Fathers play an essential role in their children’s social skills. They affect children’s future relationships and emotional health. During your research on this topic, don’t forget to consider the sociocultural context.
  • Early childhood development : gender socialization. It’s a controversial topic. Nowadays, more and more parents want to raise their children in a gender-neutral environment. How can they achieve a balance?
  • Early childhood education and play-based learning. Play-based learning has been approved as one of the best approaches in early childhood development. It allows guidance from a parent while promoting a child’s independence. Play enables children to learn math, reading, and other skills engagingly.
  • School readiness and early childhood education. Going to school can be stressful for both kids and parents. To minimize stress, parents can take an active part in preparing their children for this experience. This research would be aimed to identify the skills children need to gain to be ready for school.
  • What are the benefits of learning the second language for children? In our globalized world, parents aim to give more opportunities to their children by teaching them foreign languages . It has been researched that learning a second language can be beneficial for children’s cognitive behavior.
  • Aboriginal children education: obstacles to language development.
  • Does the readiness rate contribute to injustice?
  • Outline the new forms of play in schools.
  • Discuss the use of relaxing games in class.
  • How do teachers facilitate peer communication?
  • Explore the implications of racial diversity in educators.
  • Remote learning for young children: how much is enough?
  • Assess teacher-child interactions during breaks.
  • What activities contribute to improving reading skills ?

Sociology Research Proposal Topics

Humans are erratic creatures. Yet, we all manage to live together. Are you interested in studying the mechanics of society? Then you should consider a research proposal in sociology .

  • The impact of citizen’s wealth elections. Determine how economic conditions and people’s income influence voting patterns.
  • Correlation between personality, income, and career choice . You can explore how personal skills and family income motivate youth to choose their future career path.
  • Population background and racial discrimination. Explore mechanisms to prevent racial discrimination in societies with a diverse background of people. You can also analyze the impact of Brexit and Trump’s slogan “Make America great again” on the rise of race discrimination.
  • State pension age and its effect on the labor market. Identify how the increase of the state pension age (SPA) influences a person’s and country’s labor supply. What is the contribution of the increase of SPA to the state’s economy?
  • Investing behavior: neuroeconomic approach. In the Ph.D. proposal, examine how cognitive factors influence success in the financial market. Offer your ideas on how to improve the decision-making process in investments.
  • Poverty among ethnic minorities. Since the financial crisis in 2008, in-work poverty became a significant issue, especially among ethnic minorities . Analyze this issue and research how it impacts occupational mobility.
  • Fiscal policy and its correlation to asset pricing. Generate risk aversion ideas and asset pricing concepts. Provide recommendations for optimal fiscal policy and its improvements.
  • Racial identity and conflicts: interrelations. Conflicts are unavoidable in our daily life. In your Ph.D. research proposal, you can analyze how a person’s conflict behavior depends on their racial identity.
  • Social responsibility: developing countries. Research what safety and health actions should take companies in the construction industry of developing countries.
  • Describe the national specifics of poverty feminization.
  • Is there a link between parental practices and children’s social attitudes?
  • How did the meaning of happiness evolve through generations?
  • Segregation in modern cities.
  • Discuss the early stages of language acquisition.
  • Is the American dream attainable for minority groups?
  • Social expectations and dating preferences: how to match pairs.
  • Does family structure impact one’s occupation?
  • Social networks and deviant tendencies: what’s the correlation?
  • What factors are driving people to military enlistment?

Other Research Proposal Topics

History research proposal example topics.

Maybe you enjoy tracing the footsteps of past societies. Or perhaps you like to study the battles of the 20 th century. Whatever your preference is, researching any part of history will certainly yield fascinating results.

  • The memory of World War II in the United States. American history books often depict the United States as a country that played a key role in defeating Nazi Germany and its allies. But was it true? And if not, what purpose did this image serve in the post-war years, and what is its function today?
  • Witch Hunt in Europe during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The Holy Inquisition is notorious for its hunt and torturous murder of countless women for their alleged practice of witchcraft. The history of this hunt, as well as the doctrine of the Inquisition, might be an interesting research topic.
  • Vladimir Lenin and Joseph Stalin: a comparison of policies. The October Revolution played a significant role in history, resulting in the birth of the Soviet Union. The country was to become a communist utopia. Instead, the revolution proved violent. When Lenin died, and Stalin came to power, the country turned into a bloody dictatorship. A possible history research proposal, for example, would be the investigation of the differences between the policies of Lenin, who did try to build socialism, and Stalin, who organized a reign of terror.
  • The French Revolution and its impact on the history of 19th century Europe. The French Revolution is known to be one of the most influential events in history, even though it ended in a dictatorship. The revolution’s impact on European history might serve as a worthwhile topic for research writing.
  • European colonization of the Americas and the fate of Native Americans. Although the reputation of Christopher Columbus and other explorers of the New World is mostly positive, the reality was far more serious. The colonizers used ruthless and violent methods to deal with Native Americans, massacring them to gain land and enslaving them into labor. The history of cruelty might nonetheless prove an interesting topic for a history project proposal.
  • The history of racism in the United States. Whether one likes it or not, racism played an important role in the history of the U.S. The country has not yet recovered from its consequences. The history of American racist ideas might be a good topic for research that may possibly help battle racial discrimination.
  • History and evolution of Buddhism in the world.
  • The fate of the Jewish people during World War II.
  • Trace the development of the post-Macedonian empires.
  • How did Princess Diana influence the Royal Family’s image ?
  • Write about Magna Carta and its legacy.
  • Discuss short-lived Chinese dynasties and their demise.
  • Joan of Arc’s image throughout the ages .
  • Explore the British Empire’s conflicts with its colonies.
  • What was Caesar’s role in spreading Latin in Europe?
  • The ideological background for 20 th -century civil wars.

Research Proposal Topics in English and World Literature

If you’re passionate about reading , this section is for you. From Dostoyevsky to Austen, this list contains only the most engaging prompts in literature.

  • The character of Sonya Marmeladova in Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment . Sonya Marmeladova is one of the most appealing and sympathetic characters in world literature. A teenage girl, she is the embodiment of kindness and allegiance, which is not changed by the fact that she has to work as a prostitute to support her family. Analyzing her character can be an excellent research project topic.
  • Tragic love in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet . The tragic story of Romeo and Juliet’s love is perhaps one of the most well-known stories in the world. It may prove a good writing topic for any course in English literature.
  • The real-life plausibility of the role of Dorian’s portrait in Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray . The picture of Dorian played the role of a “moral mirror” for the protagonist of the story. But would a real-world person such as Dorian pay so much attention to such a portrait, if they had it? This is a good research question that can be investigated further.
  • The character of Eliza Doolittle in G. B. Shaw’s Pygmalion . In Shaw’s play, a simple flower girl turned into a refined woman after Professor Henry Higgins taught her. Her unique transformation may be studied further if you choose this sample idea as your research proposal topic.
  • Melville’s Moby-Dick : a story of a captain’s folly. One of the greatest novels in the history of American literature is devoted to Captain Ahab, planning his revenge on a white whale named Moby Dick. Would such anthropomorphization of a whale make sense in real-life, though? Selecting this as a research paper topic may help you find more about this question.
  • Jane Eyre : the story of Cinderella by C. Brontë. Does the complicated and multifaceted nature of Jane Eyre make it a Cinderella story? Further study of C. Brontë’s masterpiece may be one of the best proposal ideas for your research.
  • Analysis of Poe’s writing style in The Raven .
  • Lost hope in Hemingway’s  A Farewell to Arms . 
  • Racial discrimination in Uncle Tom’s Cabin .
  • Explore white normativity in Toni Morrison’s Tar Baby .
  • What is the proposed image of Prometheus in Frankenstein ?
  • Freudian concepts of sexuality in The Monk .
  • Gender expectations and the Bronte sisters’ works.
  • Study the anatomical imagery in The Merchant of Venice .
  • Domestic animals in T.S. Eliot’s poetry.
  • Vanity Fair : are its main characters realistic or symbolic?

Chemistry Research Proposal Topic Ideas

Do you enjoy analyzing what our world is made of? With a research proposal in chemistry , you can do precisely that. Whether you’re into inorganic or biochemistry, this section has what you need.

  • The impact of the temperature on chemical reaction speed. Generally speaking, higher temperature means that chemical reactions occur faster. Investigating in greater detail why this happens may be an interesting research topic for high school students.
  • The use of organometallic compounds in the industry. Organometallic compounds play a vital role in modern chemistry and widely used in numerous spheres of production. Studying their profits might prove an interesting research proposal idea.
  • The use of organic solvents in the contemporary world. Organic solvents are essential today, being widely used for a variety of purposes. Studying them might be a great research idea for a proposal.
  • The difference between covalent and ionic bonds. Covalent and ionic bonds are two of the most important types of chemical bonds between atoms. Further elucidating the similarities and differences between them is a worthwhile research proposal idea for high school students.
  • The mechanisms of reaction catalysis and inhibition. Chemical catalysts and inhibitors are widely used in the contemporary world to quicken or slow down the speed of chemical reactions. The mechanism by which catalysts and inhibitors work could prove a worthwhile paper topic.
  • Chemically related toxicants: their impact on human health. Chemical toxicants may be present as contaminants released by factories. Another way toxicants can exist is pollution and the results of environmental effects. In your chemistry research proposal, examine how to prevent potential toxic influence on human lives.
  • Allergy and chemistry: interrelations. If you’re looking for high school research proposal titles, analyze this topic. Every year more and more people suffer from allergies. Investigate what role chemistry and toxicants play in increased disease rates.
  • Respiratory toxicity: Chlorine . Chlorine is a toxicant that is exposed from plastic, paper, and chlorinated chemicals. Research the impact of Chlorine on health. How can organic home cleaning products usage lower risks of allergic rhinitis?
  • Anthropogenic chemicals in the contemporary world. We face anthropogenic chemicals everywhere in our daily life. Industrial, consumer, and agricultural activities cause chemicals emissions. Investigating this issue can help you build an outstanding title list for further research.
  • Toxicity profiling and its importance. Toxicity profiling can become a great research area for college and university students. Find out more about sample toxicity profiling and its purposes.
  • Chemistry of LSD.
  • Chemistry of synaptic transmitters.
  • Alchemy in relation to physics.
  • Study the potential usage of hybrid materials.
  • Discuss ways to develop novel catalysts through organics.
  • Atom movement and modeling of artificial molecules.
  • Heterogeneous environment: impact on subatomic particle transfer.
  • What are the developments in correcting cell function abnormalities?
  • Review safe alternatives for contamination procedures.
  • Explore the role of metal oxide catalysts in energy renewal.

Psychology Research Proposal Example Topics

In many ways, human mind remains a mystery. That’s probably one of the main reasons why psychology is such a fascinating subject. Do you want to dive into an uncharted territory or stay on the beaten track? You decide!

  • Importance of being knowledgeable about cognitive psychology. Exploring people’s thought processes can be among the most exciting cognitive psychology research proposal ideas.
  • The role of family in the socialization of an individual . Family plays a critical role in a person’s life, surrounding them from their childhood, providing them with food and shelter, and educating them. However, it’s important to know how a family socializes a child growing up.
  • The potential consequences of an untreated post-traumatic stress disorder . PTSD is a condition that may develop in an individual after a highly traumatic event. It needs treatment, or it may have a profoundly adverse influence on the life of that individual. It’s pivotal to realize how exactly PTSD may impact a person’s life, which makes this a good research topic for a paper.
  • The phenomenon of bullying in high schools from a psychological point of view . It’s unfortunate that in many contemporary high schools, bullying still poses a significant problem . It may have a serious adverse effect on the victims of bullying, so it’s pivotal to understand the reasons for bullying and the mechanisms that the victims may use to defend themselves.
  • Sociopathy (ASPD) and psychopathy: similarities and differences. The terms “sociopathy” and “psychopathy” may often be confused by non-professionals. However, important differences between the conditions exist, and it’s paramount to understand them well.
  • The psychological causes of employee resistance to change. Employees in various companies often tend to resist organizational change. Nevertheless, such resistance may sometimes have an adverse influence on organizational performance.
  • Empathy from an evolutionary point of view. It’s likely that empathy—the ability to comprehend what another person feels—is a trait that emerged in humans as a part of an evolutionary process. Examining the matter further from can be an excellent evolutionary psychology research proposal.
  • Jean Piaget’s contribution to psychology
  • Role of methodology in developmental research
  • Overcompensation of gender roles in single-mother households.
  • Little Albert experiment : where did it go wrong?
  • Freud and feminism: do they go together?
  • Is aromanticism a choice or not?
  • Discuss the trial-and-error method in choosing a therapy.
  • Explore the psychology behind Mandela’s effect.
  • Aging without children: what are the potential substitutes?
  • Pinker’s Better Angels thesis: unchanged violence perception.

Research Proposal Topics in Philosophy

What is good and evil? Philosophers have been asking questions like this for centuries. You can join their pondering with a research proposal topic from the list below.

  • Theodicy in the works of medieval philosophers. Theodicy, or the explanation of why God permits the existence of evil , was always a serious problem for religious philosophy. Medieval philosophers made numerous attempts to create a plausible theodicy. Whether they were successful or not can be demonstrated if the problem is selected as a research topic for your study.
  • Refutation of proofs of God’s existence in Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason . Medieval philosophers tried hard to prove that God exists, but their “proofs” were all similar, wrote Kant. The great German philosopher argued that there are only a few main types of such proofs, and all of them do not work. Choose this as a research topic for your paper and find out why.
  • Aristotelian Physics : verbalization of the “intuitively obvious.” Physics is a collection of works by Aristotle that deals with describing the physical world. Having no access to the experimental methods of science, Greek philosophers used reasoning, intuition, and speculation to build their theories. Aristotelian Physics is similar: it describes the physical world precisely as it intuitively appears to human senses.
  • The concept of political power in John Searle’s works. John Searle is a contemporary American philosopher-analyst whose works cover a broad range of topics, from a philosophy of language and mind to political philosophy. Researching his ideas about political power can prove quite fruitful.
  • The role of Aristotle’s works in the medieval Christian philosophy. Aristotle played a pivotal role in the development of medieval philosophy in Europe. Many philosophers of the Middle Ages based their philosophical theories and systems on what Aristotle had written. Studying Aristotelian influences on medieval philosophers is a great research topic.
  • Thomas More’s Utopia and Tommaso Campanella’s The City of the Sun : a comparison of two utopias. Utopia and The City of the Sun are some of the most famous utopian writings in the history of philosophy; in fact, the very genre was named after More’s work. Comparing the two works can prove an interesting endeavor.
  • Roger Bacon as the father of the experimental method in science. Roger Bacon is widely regarded as the person who introduced experimental method of inquiry into science. Investigate his works, as well as the context in which he worked. You will understand how Roger Bacon developed this idea if the proposed issue is chosen as a research topic for your study.
  • What is the meaning of life?
  • Ideas of philosophy and religion in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein .
  • How to deny the antecedent to enhance the argument.
  • Define the meaning of a “norm” in its modern sense.
  • Transhumanism: is digital immortality possible?
  • Study the notions of free will and regret.
  • Truthmaking: why are information gaps necessary?
  • What do philosophical zombies mean for anti-materialism?
  • Hume and miracles: a pro-religious justification.
  • Is noncombatant immunity a beacon for warfare ethics?

Research Proposal Topics in Development Studies

The evolution of states and nations is at the core of developmental studies. You can observe this process from various perspectives. These include political, social, or cultural points of view.

  • Education and success : interrelations. Explore the relations between success and education. Analyze the correlation between education, quality of life, and high living standards.
  • Human rights: the impact of non-government organizations and social movements. Investigate how various social movements and NGOs impact and promote human rights in different countries.
  • Conflicts and their impact on livelihood. The countries with conflicts are at risk of wars eruption, which will cause deaths and poor living conditions. Researching how conflicts must be addressed to avoid the problems mentioned above might be interesting if you’re searching for good project topics in development studies.
  • Waste management programs: how they influence society. Nowadays, there are plenty of waste management projects and programs. Research this issue and analyze its impact on society, environment, and economics. You can examine the Swedish experience and suggest your waste management program.
  • Women empowerment: how it contributes to women’s independence. Women empowerment programs significantly impact their autonomy and self-development. However, in some regions, women still have little or no access to education. Research how vocational education impacts empowering women in different societies.
  • Social institutions and economic development: interrelations. Social institutions play a significant role in ensuring the well-being of citizens. In your study, you can explore how various social institutions contribute to the economic development of the country.
  • The role of social movements in promoting equality. Minorities often face inequality and injustice, especially in countries where people have a diverse ethnic, religious, and economic background. In your research paper, highlight how various social movements ensure equality in a particular country.
  • Globalization and the country’s development. We live in a world where countries can’t survive without multilateral relations. Analyze how international relations influence the economic growth of a country.
  • Women leaders and their role in the country’s development. Many years women were not allowed to hold leadership positions. Even now female leaders often face criticism. In your research proposal, evaluate the perception of women leaders and their role in country’s development.
  • How does globalization affect public health?
  • Is microfinance in low-income communities a salvation?
  • What does aging imply for one’s income level?
  • Developing countries: what is in demand?
  • Study capital accumulation in Taiwanese households.
  • Review insurance risks in Sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Explore the saving habits of women in India.
  • What did the current generation inherit from the Great Depression era?
  • What are the reasons behind excessive urban bias in Latin America?
  • Is pollution in developing countries inevitable?
  • Caribbean states: external influences and countermeasure policies.

Medical Research Proposal Sample Topics

Thorough medical research is vital for human survival and wellbeing. The human body harbors many mysteries that need exploring. If you want to contribute to solving the puzzle, check out this section.

  • Addictions among young people: treatment and prevention. Provide ideas for the treatment of young people and ways to help them live a drug-free life. Suggest concepts to prevent addictions to video games , alcohol, drugs, etc.
  • Healthcare equality for minorities. Various minority groups may face inequality in healthcare. Analyze why the disparities occur for a certain minority group. Provide your suggestions on how to decrease the rates of under-insured minority representatives across the country.
  • Healthcare in rural areas. People in backcountry often have limited or no access to adequate treatment. You can investigate and provide suggestions on how to improve quality of healthcare in these areas.
  • Movement disorders: treatment. Neurologic conditions like Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s are destructive for both the patient and their family. Assess ways to treat these conditions and help patients.
  • Childhood obesity: prevention. According to the OECD report , one in six children suffers from obesity. Examine recent studies and suggest new concepts for obesity treatment and prevention.
  • Pediatric transplants: patient survival. In your proposal, you can examine new drugs aimed to minimize the side effects of the treatment regimens or analyze challenges in the treatment of transplanted patients.
  • Health education in high school . Numerous surveys show that more than 50% of parents are dissatisfied with the quality of health education their children receive at school. Suggest ideas to improve the quality of educational programs. What issues should they cover?
  • Stress and depression among the youth. Stress-related disorders are common among students. Recent studies show that almost 75% of children up to 18 years with anxiety also suffer from depression. You can investigate ways to prevent depression and anxiety disorders.
  • Mental health education. Examine the importance of proper mental health education in school, along with traditional health topics like abortions or drug abuse.
  • What are the safer routes of estrogen intake for risk groups?
  • Discuss disease prevention for pregnant women.
  • Review the pros and cons of revascularization in older patients.
  • Negligence of donor organs: who else can be potential patients?
  • The dark side of sports: diseases in athletes.
  • Assess the accuracy of noninvasive screening.
  • Delayed surgeries during the COVID-19 pandemic: a difficult choice.
  • Shift distribution in nursing : what are the adverse health outcomes?
  • Sub-fertility in men and women: similarities and differences.

Biology Research Proposal Sample Topics

Biology is not just about watching birds or inspecting plants. The science of life has much to offer. If you choose to write a paper on this subject, why not study microbiology? Or maybe epidemiology? There is much left to understand about the organisms inhabiting this planet.

  • Stem cell research: cloning. Examine the ethics of cloning and its effect on social development. Research what implications cloning may have on society.
  • Honey bees’ disappearance. Research causes of mass disappearance of bees. What impact can it have on the agricultural industry? Provide suggestions on how to prevent its negative consequences.
  • Cancer, stress, and treatment. Assess studies related to cancer and its causes. What role does stress play in cancer treatment? How can the atmosphere in hospitals help patients get better?
  • Heart health and stimulants: interrelations. Examine the correlation between stimulants and risks of heart diseases.
  • Diets and healthy food . Explore the most popular diets. How do they affect a person’s health? Are there any benefits of eating only certain vegetables and fruits?
  • Pregnancy and hormones. Investigate how maternal hormones in the first trimester impact the risk of breast cancer. It can be a great topic for your Ph.D. dissertation since there is a lack of research on this issue. Most research works are related to the later gestation period.
  • Human impact on marine life. Analyze how the Fukushima disaster influenced marine life and its effect on species population. What are the ways to protect rare or endangered species from radiation?
  • Drug medicine in pediatrics. Discuss the ethics of drug prescription on children. Explore ways to improve pediatric drug trials and development.
  • Indoor life and diseases : correlations. Modern life involves mostly indoor lifestyle. Analyze how it affects people’s ability to contract diseases. Is there a connection between the H1N1 flu epidemic and indoor life?
  • Genetic engineering: what is possible in 2024?
  • Discuss virus mutations and available means to prevent them.
  • Explore priors in relation to epidemics.
  • What biological factors influence a country’s economic stability?
  • Recovery of endangered species: what obstacles persist?
  • Discuss the possible health effects of living on another planet .
  • Study botanical structures in advanced artificial designs.
  • What are the adverse effects of bioremediation in suburban areas?
  • Rudimentary organs: which can be the next one?

Environmental Research Proposal Topics

Environmental disasters are happening at an unprecedented rate. Finding ways to combat them is an urgent mission. That’s why many countries made environmental issues a top priority on their political agendas.

  • World’s coral reefs: how to prevent destruction. Provide ideas for the environmental management of the countries that will help to decrease the reefs’ destruction .
  • Climate change: a scientific approach. Share your ideas on why governments criticize the Climate Change Agreement. Examine the Paris Climate Agreement and point out its weaknesses.
  • LED lights and their role in environmental protection. LED lights become more and more popular. You can find them everywhere: in TVs, computers, and even cars. Point out why LED light bulbs are better than the traditional one and how they impact the environment.
  • Acid rains and endangered species . Pollution is a significant issue, and one of the popular environmental proposal topics. Analyze the impact of acid rain on marine life and wildlife.
  • Clothing industry and their impact on water contamination. Production of one T-shirt requires over 2,700 liters of water . Provide suggestions on how fashion trendsetters can impact the production of clothing. Suggest how upcycling programs can reduce water pollution.
  • Alternative energy and transportation. Investigate whether alternative fuel vehicles can replace traditional ones. Assess the strengths and weaknesses of alternative energy.
  • Fukushima disaster, Arkhangelsk explosion, and Chernobyl. Examine these three disasters: what role did a human factor play? Provide your ideas on how to prevent similar tragedies.
  • Radon: how to protect families from its impact? Radon is a radioactive gas that can enter peoples’ homes through cracks in the home’s foundation. Investigate its effects on health and suggest concepts aimed to protect families from radon.
  • Rainforests and their ecosystem. It’s a widely known fact that Amazon rainforests play a significant role in life on our planet. Assess the ecosystem of the rainforest and suggest methods aimed at rainforests restoration.
  • How does invasive grass impact plants in arid lands?
  • How do we regulate wildfire’s naturally beneficial functions?
  • Review riparian forests’ role in carbon regulation.
  • Explore the human factor in phenology-related disruptions.
  • Describe successful watershed initiatives and their features.
  • How can we replicate temperature tolerance in fish?
  • Assess the environmental value of rangelands compared to other areas.
  • Thriving ecosystems : what prevents their degradation?
  • Modern species extinction: what happens when humans are uninvolved?
  • Review existing instruments in predicting climate variability.

Research Proposal Topics in International Relations

Thanks to globalization, humanity is more interconnected than ever. How do various states, NGOs, and other global actors interact with each other? That’s the critical question of international relations. This subject contains aspects of economics, politics, and law.

  • Female political leaders and their interaction specifics. Traditions inspire many political factors. Recently, women started bringing something new to it. For example, they eased the tension, especially in formal interactions.
  • Representing a nation’s interest: who is the target audience? A country is at the most united while interacting with other nations. It has to present a consistent position. However, it doesn’t always reflect what the majority wants.
  • The socio-economic system’s impact on foreign relations. Currently, there is a clash between two opposite views on production. Their differences might pose problems to cooperation.
  • Wealth discrepancies: developing countries adopting free market approach. Many countries in the world currently require financial help. Providing it may lead to dependency on more prosperous partners. How can they adapt to capitalism?
  • Free-trade organizations and their underlining political potential. Some people claim that countries in unions benefit only economically. However, they also build strong relations in other spheres. Besides, their membership may influence the union’s decision-making.
  • State sovereignty : the extent of one’s independence. The countries involved in global cooperation are considered sovereign. You can debate whether we can say it about the countries dependent on others.
  • The United Nation’s recent successes and failures. The organization is an influential actor on a global scale. It’s responsible for mitigating conflicts and disasters. However, not all of its initiatives are fruitful, such as Sudan.
  • A personality in foreign policies: possible negative outcomes. Branches of the government cooperate on the unified state agenda. However, political leaders may eclipse this effort. For instance, their position can be unrelated to the country’s actual needs.
  • Nationalism among global problems: advantages and risks . Currently, many issues require international cooperation . Still, some solutions may be harmful to particular countries.
  • Debate takeover’s relevance to modern global discourse. Throughout history, countries were driven by their desire to conquer. See if this approach has transformed or outlived its purpose.
  • Analyze barriers to nuclear disarming in the US.
  • How do global companies affect native populations?
  • What’s the impact of the liberal approach on long-lasting conflicts?
  • Analyze favoritism in global relations.
  • Discuss equality issues in smaller countries.
  • Fake news in diplomacy and potential issues.
  • Write about human rights promotion in autocracies.
  • How does xenophobia influence diplomatic relations?
  • Economic sanctions: how do they punish the population?
  • Pick a local issue and discuss international responses to it.

Topics for a Research Proposal: Economics

It’s nice to have goods and valuables. But it’s also relevant to know how to properly handle them. Economics looks into how people produce, consume, and otherwise interact with resources.

  • Subtle ways of violating workers’ rights. A government may present itself as a supporter of the working class. Study how actions such as prioritizing corporate interests reveal their real goals.
  • Minimum wage equivalents in the freelance setting. A commission-based job has many advantages. However, the drawbacks are also numerous. Review them in your proposal.
  • Income growth: which groups might be missing? The overall tendency for people is to earn more. Yet, it’s not always the case for minorities. See what the reasons behind it are.
  • Newer industries fearing the power of unions. The benefits of labor unions are well-known. It includes better working environments and payment. But you may argue that corporations consider unions a nuisance.
  • Homelessness: are we not addressing the problem’s root? Some communities have spent their budgets on making common spots for homeless people inaccessible. Yet, the underlying causes of this condition remain unresolved.
  • Green proposals and initiatives: what are the reasons for rejection? Politicians have been offering plans to alleviate ecological damages. Yet, they are criticized by the representatives of the affected economic sectors.
  • Federal aid: issues with transparency and legislature. Local and state governments manage their finances independently. Still, they remain under restrictions. It forces them to rely on higher-level support during difficult times.
  • The fiduciary rule: who wants it revised? This rule aims to protect the customers’ interests in choosing investment plans. Discuss why some stakeholders view the initiative as an obstacle.
  • Region-based wage increases: a potential temporary solution. The solution’s ultimate goal is to influence the federal wage. That’s why its proponents find regional proposals distracting. You can argue that they could work as a transitional mechanism.
  • The US and migrant labor global standards. The issue with immigrants persists. Amid the crisis, select states strive to improve the situation. Does the federal level ignore international regulations?
  • Wage suppression: what factors lead to it?
  • Recent trade agreements’ implications for industry workers.
  • How did COVID-19 affect farmworkers?
  • Who are the potential benefactors for infrastructure investments?
  • How do massive job losses impact state economies?
  • Decreased economic growth: what could accelerate it?
  • Why are pensions the central drawing aspect of a teacher’s profession ?
  • New taxation suggestions: will the rich suffer?
  • What should the fiscal policy target?
  • Tipping regulation policies and related issues.

Criminal Justice Research Proposal Topics

Criminal justice deals with the identification, judgment, and punishment of criminals. It encompasses three spheres: law enforcement, the courts, and corrections.

  • Crime and emergencies. Is it true that a lot of crimes are committed during public emergencies? If so, what can be done to prevent them?
  • The relationship between the police and people of different ethnicities. Can diverse police departments and body cameras prevent police violence? In what ways does the perception of police officers affect public safety?
  • The efficiency of drug courts. What is the long-term effect of drug courts participation? Do they help or hurt people? What improvements can be made?
  • The impact of parents’ incarceration on children. Children whose parents are imprisoned are indeed more likely to develop psychological problems. How can that be prevented? Who should take care of the children?
  • How does gender influence criminal punishment? Men are more likely to get the death penalty. Why? Are women mistreated in court?
  • Can gun control reduce crimes?
  • How can drug trafficking be prevented?
  • Can the death penalty ever be a fair punishment?
  • Will the legalization of prostitution cause more crimes or reduce them?

Qualitative Research Proposal Sample Topics

Are you more of a hands-on student? Does conducting interviews and fieldwork sound exciting to you? Then writing a proposal for qualitative research is the right thing for you.

  • Beauty standards: women’s perception of themselves and others. The definition of beauty exists in society as an unspoken rule. Not everyone is fortunate to fit it. What does it entail?
  • Feminism as an all-encompassing movement: opposing perspectives. Feminism has evolved from being about women to covering all gender rights. However, anti-feminist and notions continue to exist. See why some people insist on creating separate campaigns.
  • The silent majority in non-democratic countries. Many such countries have a high population that could overthrow the regime. However, they seem content with the situation. Find a logical explanation for this phenomenon.
  • Likes and reposts: how do they affect people? Social media are not just spots for sharing and discussing topics. They’re also about fame. Certain users make it their mission to achieve it.
  • The allure of foreign media. Anime and Korean pop music have found success in the US. Discuss what makes them appealing to the audience.
  • Successful women: what are their resilience factors? Some industries discriminate against their older female workers. However, opposite examples are also common. Demonstrate how a woman can stay on top at any age.
  • The adult industry: how should we regulate it? People involved in the sex industry are often subject to abuse. The government makes attempts to prevent it. Would it be reasonable to ban the sector completely?
  • Counter urbanization: why do people leave cities with opportunities? A new trend is moving into the countryside away from noise and pollution. Discuss what makes former city-dwellers make such a choice.
  • Modern readers and their habits. People reading less is a topical issue. Analyze how people’s interactions with books have evolved.
  • How hesitant decision-making affects abusive households . When abuse happens in a family, the sufferers often will trust experts to resolve the problem. But sometimes, the process can become complicated.
  • What can people do to save the marine life?
  • Study race-based differences in accounts of police forces.
  • How do you convince a child with disabilities not to give up?
  • Research what happens when children’s favorite teacher retires.
  • Review the methods of late-life language learning .
  • What are the main obstacles when parting with one’s first job ?
  • How are people with a Ph.D. degree perceived by society?
  • Overweight people: what helps them the most?
  • Subcultures of the past: are they coming back?
  • Dealing with previously undiscovered diseases in children.

Quantitative Research Proposal Topics to Write About

If math doesn’t scare you, quantitative research might be what you’re looking for. It’s suitable for everything: from agriculture to microeconomics. Quantifying data collection and analysis is at the heart of this research method.

  • Women’s contribution to the US economy . Since gaining equal rights, women started to work and buy goods actively. Assess the importance of their presence in the main economic sectors.
  • The limited coverage of alternative energy sources. The world has known safer power generation means for years. Still, their usage remains limited. Discuss whether expansion is possible.
  • Public security in democracies and modern autocracies. Security is one of our primary values. Sometimes people are willing to sacrifice their freedoms for it. But does it mean that less democratic countries are more secure?
  • Cybercrimes: their rise and potential damage scope . Digitalization comes at a price. We can see it with criminal activity on the Internet. Discuss the forms of such activities.
  • Online information sources vs. traditional media . Today, people have more news outlets than ever. Children start using social media from an early age. Yet, TV and newspapers might still have a large audience. What are their advantages?
  • Violence is on the decline: myth or reality? The current time is relatively peaceful compared to earlier periods. Yet, violent incidents still happen. You can debate the trend’s universal nature in your paper.
  • Natural disasters: does human activity affect their frequency? Earthquakes, landslides, and hurricanes have always posed a danger to people. Recently, they became more frequent than before. Is humanity involved in causing them?
  • Smartphones as a catalyst for local decision-making. Today almost everyone owns a multi-functional mobile device. In what case can their use be an administrative issue?
  • Social justice movements and feasible workplace outcomes. The recent years have seen several positive upheavals concerning women and minority groups. Evaluate their impact on employee discrimination around the world.
  • Space exploration and environment: misguided priorities? Some believe that saving the Earth is hopeless. Thus, colonizing other planets is the solution. Could the money spent on those technologies have solved global issues?
  • Discuss the millennials’ inclination towards volunteering.
  • What’s the impact of streaming on the music industry ?
  • Study cryptocurrencies and related tax evasion issues.
  • Review recent trajectories in US media censorship.
  • How successful are crowdfunding websites?
  • Is it reasonable to choose homeschooling to avoid school shootings?
  • LGBTQ’s mainstream media portrayal: a quantitative analysis.
  • How do oil spills damage marine life?
  • Does autocorrect function affect literacy levels in students?
  • Assess satisfaction with medical services against their price.

Easy Research Proposal Topics for Students

A research doesn’t have to be about rocket science. Easy topics can be just as effective. Check out our collection of simple research proposal topics:

  • Height reduction in children and older adults. Many people think that senior citizens are shorter than other age groups. Are all demographics affected by vertical changes?
  • The Earth spins, but no one feels it. Some people still believe that the planet is flat. They argue that it’s so because we do not feel any movement. In fact, the sphere has certain features that prevent it. What are they?
  • What is the mechanism of vaccination? Some fear being vaccinated and prefer contracting viruses to develop immunity. It comes from not entirely understanding how vaccines work. How do they offer safer protection?
  • Evolution of wings and humanity’s dreams of flying. People have always dreamed of conquering the sky. Evolution deprived them of such a skill. The dinosaur’s direct descendants were rewarded instead: common birds.
  • Color perception in animals: humans vs. pets. Humans can see the world in all its glory. Yet, other creatures are not necessarily capable of that. Even cats’ and dogs’ color perception is limited.
  • Time travel: is it only possible in fiction? Many movies and TV shows use the concept of time traveling. Perhaps the future will make it possible, but under what conditions?
  • How did the Solar System’s structure change over time? At some point, the Earth had eight accompanying planets. Later, the classification was overhauled. The system expanded, but it cost Pluto its planet status. What other changes occurred throughout history?
  • The extent of regeneration: cells and organs. Humans are surprisingly capable of recovering from wounds. Does it also extend to whole organs?
  • Current issues with space exploration and colonization. Decades ago, humanity managed to put people on the Moon. Since then, other space advancements have been made. Why weren’t they on the same scale?
  • The origins of the modern-day Western calendar. Christian nations live according to the numerical system allegedly starting from Christ’s birth. It also includes seven days based on his life, although it predates him by long.
  • Salt in tears and blood: is it the same?
  • Assess noise sensitivity during sleep and intensive work.
  • What determines the uniqueness of fingerprints?
  • Alternative energy generators and how they work.
  • What determines if a smell is unpleasant?
  • How do optical illusions work ?
  • Why do people’s preferences and hobbies change with age?
  • What’s the purpose of bird songs?
  • Dangerous wildfires: how much is humanity at fault?
  • Animal extinction: potential impacts on other species.

If you still want to find some more topics, you are welcome to check science research proposal topics on our blog to make your academic writing life much easier.

📝   How to Write a Project Proposal

Before you start working on the proposal itself, it’s pivotal to understand the standard proposal writing format.

Every academic paper has defined rules to follow, so let’s take a look at the research proposal structure.

Components of Research Proposal

Typically, a research proposal consists of a title, abstract, introduction, research methodology, research results, discussion, ethical considerations, and references.

At the beginning stage, you should choose an interesting proposal title to investigate. It may sound unbelievable, but a carefully chosen title can do half the job in persuading your audience.

Essay title tips list.

In this article, you’ll find research proposal topics in many different areas. It’s always easier to choose one if you have a list of proposal topics to browse. Once you’ve chosen your topic, make your research proposal title catchy and relevant.

Next, every research proposal needs an abstract. This part of your paper has a limited word count, typically between 100 and 300 words. If you want to convince your research committee in just a few lines, you should take this stage very seriously.

What to include in an abstract list.

The abstract must summarize your research proposal, so it’s better to write it after the rest of your paper is done.

Introduction

This is a standard part of every paper, but different documents include various elements in their introductory texts.

The essay introduction must answer 3 essential question for the reader.

A research proposal introduction should contain the following three parts:

The audience needs to know what other authors have discovered when studying your topic. This will help them to understand the topic’s importance. .
To examine your topic thoroughly, you should answer research questions. By finding good research questions, you’ll convince the audience of the importance of your research.
You should define the approach you’ll use to investigate your research questions. You can choose between two options: Always explain why you have chosen this particular approach and how it’s relevant to your research question.

Research Methodology

When writing a research proposal, you need to describe the methods you’ve used. It will make your work more credible and allow the readers to evaluate it properly.

Choose your research methodology.

Your methodology helps you carry out your research. It serves as a basis for any academic paper, and it’s closely connected with your research question.

Research Results

You may be wondering how you can write the research proposal results when you haven’t actually conducted the research yet.

Well, don’t worry—you’re not expected to draw final conclusions at this stage. Instead, just try to analyze what research proposal results you’ll get after your project is done and how those results will impact your field of study or the world at large.

Two ways of presenting and organizing the research results.

This is an important part of your paper because it explains to the research committee whether or not your results will be worth the effort. Try to persuade the audience that you can get important results, but never promise too much.

Research Discussion

It’s okay to face some problems with your research, whether it’s trouble getting an interview from a foreign professor or having the funds to complete an expensive experiment.

Just don’t try to hide from the research committee the things you can’t do for your project. Instead, discuss them with your committee so they can have the whole picture and give you helpful advice on your research. Who knows—maybe one of them can introduce you to this foreign professor!

Ethical Considerations

If your research is conducted on people or animals, you should mention how you’re going to collect your data. Make sure your research proposal methodology doesn’t conflict with ethical guidelines.

References and Appendices

No research paper can be written without reading and studying dozens of sources. You site them all in the References section . If you have any questionnaires for your research proposal or any other documents related to your investigation, include them all in the appendices .

Examples of items in appendices.

Outline of a Research Proposal: Step by Step

STEP #1. Write the abstract.

How should you write your research proposal abstract? Explain the primary problem you want to explore and tell why it’s important:

What can your investigation bring?
What will you use to find answers to your research questions?
What do you expect your exploration to result in?

The next step is writing a research methodology section.

STEP #2. Introduce your methodological approach.

To choose a methodological approach, you need to analyze your research question. Do it from the following points of view:

Is your research question rooted in ?
What are you going to collect and analyze? It could be numerical or textual data. You can use available information, or collect it yourself.
What are you going to use?
What fits the best when answering your research question?

STEP #3. Introduce your data collection methods.

Depending on how you answered the previous questions, choose which types of data you will need for your research:

  • Primary data that you collect yourself.
  • Secondary data , already available and presented by someone else.

Here are the main methods of primary data collection:

  • Surveys are perfect for assignments where you need to gather information from a group of people. It can be done in the form of a questionnaire or as an interview.
  • Observation is used when you need to see how something occurs in natural conditions.
  • An experiment is a set of procedures conducted in order to test a theory.

Secondary data is usually obtained from books and articles. The main method here is the literature review , where you analyze and evaluate information from the source.

STEP #4. Describe your methods of analysis.

The methods of analysis can be qualitative or quantitative.

Multiple linear regression.

  • T-tests estimate the difference between the means of two groups (e.g., populations of two cities)
  • Simple linear regression analysis estimates the relationship between two variables (e.g., amount of rainfall and crop growth)
  • Multiple regression analysis estimates the relationships between one dependent and several independent variables (e.g., pneumonia in people of different ages)
  • Content analysis (e.g., the use of certain words in texts)
  • Thematic analysis (e.g., to identify common topics in texts)
  • Discourse analysis (e.g., to analyze the text in relation to its social context)

STEP #5. Justify your choices.

Here you should explain why you’ve chosen a particular methodology for your project. Show why your approach is the most appropriate one, and why other methods are not suitable. Here’s the list of the most common disadvantages:

  • T-tests become unreliable when the normal distribution of data is violated.
  • In simple linear regression , the results are often over-simplified.
  • Multiple regression analysis can sometimes use incomplete data.
  • Content analysis can disregard important nuances.
  • Thematic and discourse analysis can be too subjective.

Research Proposal Cover Page & Format

Every academic paper has defined rules to follow, so let’s take a look at the research proposal writing format.

Research Proposal Title Page

The front page of a proposal includes the following:

  • Your name ;
  • Your project’s title ;
  • Name of the institution or organization you’re applying to;
  • Name and contact information of your research’s supervisor ;
  • Submission date .

Formatting and References

Remember to make a reference to every article or website that you used to write your research proposal, and only use credible sources for your study, such as books and peer-reviewed articles. You are usually required to cite your sources in one of the existing citing styles, such as APA or MLA .

Research Proposal Timeline

A timeline is a plan that indicates the milestones of your research and the dates at which you could realistically achieve these milestones. Time schedules are especially important for lengthy researches.

Here are the milestones that you can include in your timeline:

  • Research proposal completion
  • Literature review
  • Conducting experiments
  • Data analysis
  • First draft completion
  • Rewriting and editing
  • Final draft.

It’s handy to have two versions of the same timeline. First, make a shorter one to include in your research proposal. Then, write a more detailed version for your personal reference.

📄 Undergraduate Research Proposal Sample

Finally, we’ve prepared a research proposal example (MLA format) to help you better understand your task. Feel free to download it below.

This study examines the effect of mobile educational applications on pre-school children and their academic achievements. The research was conducted by studying and analyzing the information provided by similar previously conducted researches. The interpretive methods, which focus on understanding a phenomenon comprehensively, and secondary data collection, were used for this research.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this article. Have any interesting questions or ideas? Let us know in the comments!

Learn more on this topic:

  • Research Proposal Help: Amazing Resources, Tips & Tools
  • Best Research Proposal: How to Write, Sample and Tips
  • The Importance of a Research Proposal: Purpose and Advantages

🔗  References

  • Research Process, A Step-by-Step Approach: Nash Library & Student Learning Commons at Gannon University
  • How to Prepare an Annotated Bibliography: LibGuides at Cornell University
  • Effective Writing: Grammar Rules
  • Making an Outline, Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper: Research Guides at University of Southern California
  • A Guide for Proposal Writing: The National Science Foundation
  • What’s the Best Business Proposal Format: Bplans, Palo Alto Software, Inc.
  • How to Write a Business Proposal, A Basic Guide: The Balance Small Business
  • How to Write Your Research Proposal: University of Westminster, London
  • Medical Students Topics: Medscape
  • Psychology Research Paper Topics, 50+ Great Ideas: Kendra Cherry, Verywell Mind
  • Topics: HISTORY, A&E Television Networks, LLC.
  • 10 Best Proposal Examples [With Critical Critiques]: Mary Cullen, Instructional Solution
  • Free Business Proposal Templates: Proposify
  • Writing Your Research ProposaL: Oxford University Department for Continuing Education
  • Writing a Good PhD Research Proposal: FindAPhD
  • Nick Bostrom’s Home Page: Nick Bostrom
  • Research Priorities: Minerva Research Initiative
  • Generate Topic Ideas Quickly and Easily: Online Research Library Questia
  • Faculty Research Topics: USC Viterbi, School of Engineering
  • Writing Research Proposals: University of California, Berkeley
  • Finding a project: Washington State University
  • Undergraduate Sample Research Topics: Political Science: Western Michigan University
  • World History: Britannica
  • Literature Topics and Research: Purdue University
  • Most Downloaded Journal of Business Research Articles: Elsevier
  • Recent Research Topics on Management: Research Gate
  • Business Administration: Academia.edu
  • Sample Business Proposals: Proposal Kit
  • Political Science Research and Methods: Cambridge University Press
  • Articles: Frontiers of Business Research in China: Springer Open
  • Management Science/Operations Research: Emerald.com
  • Working Knowledge: Business Research for Business Leaders: Harvard Business School
  • Education Research: EdSurge
  • Special Education: American Institutes for Research
  • Special Education Research Programs: US Department of Education
  • Early Childhood Education Research: Australian Council for Education Research
  • Research Areas: Department of Chemistry: Stanford University
  • Research: Chemistry World
  • Metaphysics and Epistemology: PhilPapers
  • Research Programs in Development Studies: Princeton University
  • Research Articles: The BMJ
  • Medical Research News: Medical Xpress
  • Nature Research: Nature.com
  • Research Topics: Natural Resources and Environment: The University of Arizona
  • Areas of Research: Economic Policy Institute
  • International Affairs: RAND
  • International Relations: SAGE Journals
  • Quantitative Research Topics: Frontiers In
  • Articles on Curious Kids: The Conversation
  • Study of Impacts of Global Warming on Climate Change: Rise in Sea Level and Disaster Frequency: IntechOpen
  • Research Methodology: Open.edu
  • Background Research: Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
  • Background Research: LibGuides at University of Connecticut
  • Data Analysis: The Office of Research Integrity: HHS.gov
  • Five Principles for Research Ethics: American Psychological Association
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I am a student in Kenya at Taita Taveta University…I need a proposal on investigating voters registration turn out in Taita Taveta County

I need a research proposal regarding Effective Energy management and its roles in sustainable development

Hello, I am a undergraduate student in Addis abeba university I want a proposal for construction and technology management

Hello, I am an undergraduate student in Addis abeba university I want a proposal for construction and technology management

Hi I’m a student studying English language ( literature) , my teacher & for the 1 st time asked me to find a gap in a book & do a research proposal about it & never do it & don’t know how to do it . Can you help plz ?

I’m a undergraduate student in kenya I want a proposal for water resource management

Interesting Topics

Hello, I am a student of Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resource management and industrial relations and need a research topic in the area. Thanks!

Need a unique academic research proposal related to global health and travel medicine.

180+ Proposal Essay Topics in 2024

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Table of contents

  • 1 What Is a Proposal Argument Essay?
  • 2 Interesting Proposal Essay Topics
  • 3 Environment & Global Warming
  • 4 Technology
  • 5 Business Proposal Essay Ideas
  • 6 Proposal Essay Topics on Education
  • 7 Personal Development and Psychology
  • 8 History Proposal Essay Topics
  • 9 Culture Proposal Writing Ideas
  • 10 Literature Proposal Essay Topics
  • 11.1 Law and Justice
  • 11.2 Politics and Government
  • 11.3 Topics on Economics
  • 12 Tips for Proposal Argument Essay Writing
  • 13 Conclusion

Do you need to work on a proposal essay but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry; we’re here to help! This guide will walk you through how to start drafting a proposal essay that will get you the desired grade. We’ll discuss how to choose a topic, how to structure your document, how to make sure it is persuasive and well-written, and cover more than a hundred themes to choose from.

Regarding the themes, we’ll cover interesting proposal essay topics with solutions, ranging from medical proposal essay topics to even funny proposal essay topics. So let’s get started!

What Is a Proposal Argument Essay?

It is an argumentative essay in which you propose a solution to a problem . It can be written for an academic audience, such as your professor or classmates, or it can be for a more general audience, such as a government body or business.

To come up with a good paper, you need to have a subject you are passionate about and know there is a problem. For example, if you are interested in environmental issues, you might research the problems with plastic pollution. If you are interested in education, you might research problems with the current school system.

Once you have chosen your field of study, you can seek help from various services, such as a research proposal writing service , to explore themes related to your topic. This approach will help you gain a deeper understanding and find evidence to support your findings. After completing your research, you will be ready to start putting together your paper!

phd proposal topics

Interesting Proposal Essay Topics

Choosing the right topic for a proposal essay can be challenging, but it is crucial for success in college. A good topic captures interest and provides a solid foundation for your research. To help you get started, we have compiled a list of intriguing proposal essay topics that cover various subjects.

Need help with your proposal essay? Get your paper written by a professional writer Get Help Reviews.io 4.9/5

Environment & Global Warming

Here are some environment essay ideas to get you started:

  • Ways to reduce plastic pollution
  • Effects of air pollution on human health
  • Methods to reduce food waste and control global climate change
  • Risks associated with fracking
  • Importance of protecting endangered species
  • Steps to reduce car emissions
  • Advantages of using renewable energy
  • Exploring climate change through contemporary literature
  • Issues with nuclear power plants
  • Strategies to encourage recycling
  • Importance of conserving water resources
  • Ways to combat global warming effectively
  • Implementing sustainable practices in daily life
  • Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through innovative solutions
  • Adapting to climate change at a community level
  • Promoting environmental sustainability in urban areas
  • Addressing environmental issues through policy changes
  • Methods for effective environmental conservation
  • The impact of environmental policies on local communities
  • Alternatives to plastic bags for a cleaner environment
  • The role of sustainable agriculture in mitigating climate change
  • Policies to reduce the use of plastic bags in retail stores
  • How sustainable agriculture practices can combat climate change
  • Innovative solutions to replace plastic bags and reduce environmental impact

When creating this kind of text, it is important to remember that you are trying to persuade the reader to accept your solution. This means that you need to make sure your text is clear and easy to follow. You will also need to find evidence to support your claim. Finally, practice makes perfect!

Technology themes are easy proposal essay topics and always evolving. There are always new problems to solve. Here are technology subjects to get you started:

  • The problem of Internet addiction
  • How to secure data online
  • The dark side of social media
  • How to stop cyberbullying
  • Identity theft
  • The pros and cons of artificial intelligence
  • How driverless cars will impact society
  • The future of virtual reality
  • The impact of the Internet on education
  • How biometrics will change security measures
  • The impact of modern technologies on education
  • Ethical considerations in scientific research advancements
  • The influence of modern media on public opinion
  • How social media platforms shape political discourse
  • Economic benefits of adopting renewable energy sources

Business Proposal Essay Ideas

Business writing is a common assignment in business school. To craft a good one, you need to choose a relevant theme that can be expanded. Here are ten business project proposal ideas to get you started:

  • The pros and cons of starting your own business
  • How to come up with a business plan
  • What investors look for in a startup
  • How to pitch your business idea
  • The challenges of being a young entrepreneur
  • How to balance work and life when you’re self-employed
  • The importance of customer service
  • How a social presence can help or hurt your business
  • The role of marketing in a successful business
  • Developing an effective sales strategy
  • The impact of economic development on small businesses
  • Balancing economic development with environmental sustainability
  • The role of corporate social responsibility in modern business practices
  • Strategies to ensure economic stability in volatile markets
  • Economic benefits of embracing digital transformation in businesses
  • Challenges faced by developing countries in attracting foreign investment

These are just some of the potential subjects you could develop in a business paper. Do some research and pick one that interests you!

Proposal Essay Topics on Education

Here are education proposal topic ideas to get you started:

  • Ways to address the problem of illiteracy
  • Strategies to improve test scores
  • Solutions for reducing the high dropout rate
  • Methods to reduce bullying in schools
  • Techniques for improving communication between teachers and students
  • How to make school more engaging for students
  • The impact of technology on education
  • Pros and cons of homeschooling
  • The importance of implementing comprehensive sex education
  • Effective methods for disciplining children
  • Ways to support the mental health of college athletes
  • Improving nutritional quality in school lunch programs
  • How to enhance educational outcomes through innovative teaching methods
  • Strategies for increasing parental involvement in children’s education
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The possibilities are endless when it comes to the kinds of papers you can write. Research, pick an interesting topic, and go from there!

Personal Development and Psychology

Here are personal development and psychology topic proposal ideas to get you started:

  • How to overcome procrastination
  • How to deal with anxiety
  • How to manage stress
  • The benefits of meditation
  • The role of therapy in personal development
  • How to set good goals and achieve them
  • How to overcome negative thinking
  • Building self-confidence
  • Dealing with envy
  • Overcoming jealousy
  • Strategies to raise mental health awareness in schools
  • Effective ways to support mental health during the college years
  • Improving social life for better mental well-being
  • Building stronger interpersonal relationships in the digital age
  • Techniques for personal development in a fast-paced world
  • Addressing ethical dilemmas in modern psychological practices

History Proposal Essay Topics

  • How the American Revolution changed America
  • The causes of the Civil War
  • How the Industrial Revolution changed America
  • The Roaring Twenties: A decade of change
  • The Big Depression and the New Deal
  • World War II: The home front experience
  • The black lives matter movement in 2024
  • The civil rights movement
  • The fall of communism in Eastern Europe
  • The end of apartheid in South Africa
  • The influence of the modern world on global politics
  • Challenges facing contemporary society in the 21st century
  • Analyzing the most significant historical events of the last decade
  • Economic development challenges in developing countries
  • The impact of cultural diversity on national identity
  • Key historical events that shaped modern society

History is so much more than just the past, it’s an exploration of human nature. And that means there are all sorts of fascinating themes you can write about!

Culture Proposal Writing Ideas

  • How social networks have changed the way we communicate
  • The impact of globalization on culture
  • How immigration has changed America
  • The role of women in society
  • Racism in America
  • Homophobia in America
  • Promoting gender equality in the workplace
  • Fostering tolerant behavior in multicultural societies
  • The effects of streaming services on traditional television consumption
  • The impact of meme culture on political discourse
  • Challenges and opportunities of remote work in the digital age
  • The influence of online education on traditional schooling
  • Cyberbullying and its effects on mental health
  • The role of social media influencers in shaping public opinion
  • The representation of minorities in digital media
  • Privacy concerns in the era of big data
  • The digital divide and its impact on education equality
  • The influence of virtual reality on social interactions

Culture is a fascinating subject that can make for an engaging paper. There are so many different areas to explore, and it’s up to you as the writer how in-depth your research will be!

Literature Proposal Essay Topics

  • The decline of printed media in the 21st century
  • How the Internet has changed the way we consume literature
  • The evolution of dystopian themes in contemporary literature
  • The portrayal of mental health in modern fiction
  • The impact of social media on literary criticism
  • Representation of LGBTQ+ characters in 21st-century novels
  • The role of women writers in shaping modern literary trends
  • The influence of technology on narrative structure in fiction
  • Depiction of immigrant experiences in recent literature
  • The resurgence of poetry in the digital age
  • Exploring themes of identity in young adult literature
  • The impact of self-publishing on the literary market
  • The role of literature in the Black Lives Matter movement
  • Portrayal of pandemics in contemporary fiction
  • The influence of graphic novels on literary culture
  • Exploring cultural hybridity in global literature

Social Life and Social Issues Proposal Essay Topics

Here are some social life issues headlines to get you started:

  • How to reduce crime in your community
  • The role of the media in society
  • Addressing illegal drug use in urban areas
  • Solutions for improving healthcare accessibility for low-income families
  • Strategies to combat homelessness among low-income families
  • Domestic violence: Causes and solutions
  • Preventing drunk driving through community initiatives
  • Elder abuse: Recognition and prevention strategies
  • Child abuse prevention and intervention programs
  • Human trafficking: Global and local responses
  • Addressing the rise of illegal immigration during the COVID-19 pandemic
  • Combating childhood obesity through effective programs
  • Animal cruelty: Legislation and enforcement
  • The importance of comprehensive sex education in schools
  • Exploring moral responsibility in contemporary society
  • The role of religious education in promoting ethical values
  • Addressing world hunger through sustainable practices
  • Ethical implications of modern surveillance technologies
  • The importance of early childhood education in social development

Why not develop your own social life paper? There are an infinite number of potential subjects you could choose from! Research and pick one that interests you.

Law and Justice

Here are ten law and justice high-level but good themes to get you started:

  • The death penalty: Pros and Cons
  • The problem of false confessions
  • How to manage sexual harassment lawsuits
  • The issue of police brutality
  • Racial discrimination in the criminal justice system
  • The problem of mass incarceration
  • Is our current immigration system fair?
  • Can you argue that there should be stricter gun control laws?
  • Should the legal drinking age be raised?
  • Should marijuana be legalized?

These are just some of the potential topics you could research about.

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Politics and Government

Here are ten politics and government themes to get you started:

  • The problem of voter turnout
  • How to improve the political process
  • The issue of campaign finance reform
  • How to reduce corruption in government
  • The role of lobbyists in government
  • Is our current tax system fair?
  • Should the government do more to regulate big business?
  • What is the best way to handle the issue of illegal immigration?
  • Should the government do more to protect the environment?
  • What is the best way to handle the issue of climate change?

Topics on Economics

Here are ten economy proposal paper topics to get you started:

  • The problem of income inequality
  • The issue of jobs outsourcing
  • How to improve the American economy
  • The role of the Federal Reserve in the economy
  • The problem of trade deficits
  • Should the minimum wage be raised?
  • Is capitalism the best economic system?
  • What is the best way to reduce unemployment?
  • Should there be stricter regulation of the financial sector?
  • The role of the Federal Reserve

When it comes to writing a proposal essay, students can face several challenges. However, with the help of an online essay writing service , students can get professional assistance in selecting a suitable proposal essay topic and completing the entire essay. Papersowl.com provides guidance on researching the issue, outlining the essay, and crafting the final draft, ensuring that the essay meets the course requirements.

Tips for Proposal Argument Essay Writing

Let’s talk about some essential tips to ensure your essay stands out and persuades your reader effectively. Here are key strategies to enhance your proposal argument essay:

  • Ensure Clarity and Accuracy:

Your essay must be well-written, free of grammar and spelling errors. A polished document enhances credibility and shows that you take your work seriously. Be clear and concise in your writing. Your goal is to persuade the reader, so ensure your arguments are easy to follow and understand.

  • Support with Evidence:

Back up your proposal argument with solid evidence. Use reliable sources to support your claims and strengthen your argument. Look for top proposal essay examples in your field to gather insights and ideas on structuring and presenting your proposal.

  • Practice and Revise:

Writing is a skill that improves with practice. The more you write and revise, the better your essays will become. Don’t be afraid to draft and redraft until your essay is compelling and clear. Seek feedback from peers or instructors to refine your arguments and improve your writing.

  • Choose the Right Topic:

Select a topic you are passionate about and that addresses a specific problem. A topic that genuinely interests you will be easier to research and write about. Ensure the topic is debatable, with clear opposing viewpoints to address in your essay. This will make your argument more robust and comprehensive.

  • Conduct Thorough Research:

Once you’ve chosen a topic, conduct extensive research to understand the issue fully. Gather information from various sources to get a well-rounded view. Use this research to build a strong foundation for your proposal, making your argument more persuasive and credible.

And if you’re willing to get some extra help to save time and effort, you can always try our pay to write essay offering today and kick back while professional writers craft a top-notch paper just for you!

So, what are you waiting for? Pick your favorite theme and get started typing proposals with any topic you like! The sooner you start, the more time you’ll have to revise and polish your work. And don’t forget to ask for help if you need it – professors are always happy to offer guidance and feedback.

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phd proposal topics

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Speaker 1: Hello, everyone. Today we'll talk about preparation of a research grant. The research that you have done today has been organized by your PhD supervisor or your principal investigator, your team leader. So they actually applied for the research. They got the grant and you're employed to work on that. However, if you're working and advancing well in your PhD, sooner than later, you will have to write your own research proposal. Especially if you want to apply for a research grant or a fellowship, or if you want to apply for another job, you will have to demonstrate that you can write your own research. Before you put pen to paper or even consider applying for a research grant, there are a number of questions that you need to ask yourself. If you are satisfied with your answers, then you need to think about considering applying for a grant. It is important to understand that committing to writing a grant is a big thing. Grants are extremely competitive. They need a lot of preparation, a lot of work, talking to others, developing the idea, expanding on that, writing the methodology, polishing again and again. You have to be committed that you want to actually go through that route. Also, one of the questions that you need to make yourself is, is it worth it? Do I really need to get that grant in order to do the research? You should certainly think about the planned research funding application in the whole context of your professional career, as you don't always need to get money to do your research. So there are a few further questions that you need to ask yourself before even considering writing a research grant. What is the relationship between your aspirations to do research and the availability of funding? Why are you applying for funding? Why do you need funding? What is the minimum funding you need to ensure the success of the research project you're asking to be funded? When you are satisfied with your answers to these questions and you understand that applying for a research grant is a major task, it will take a lot of time, only then you should start to prepare your application. It is essential that you are really, really believing in the proposed idea and the potential of doing research in this area. So in that case, you can also convince your peers. If you don't believe in it, don't even consider applying for a grant. That's the main difference between papers and grants. Until now, I've spoken a lot about writing papers. There, you don't really need to convince anyone about your research. You're doing the research and you're presenting it in a good way. Here, there is no research. You need to convince the reviewers of your grant that this is a legitimate, this is a very good idea. There is a methodology. It's a challenging problem, but it can be solved. On top of that, you need to show to the reviewers that you need a significant amount of money in order to do that research. You need resources and those resources, they better go to you rather than to someone else in another institution. So it's kind of a competition that you have to indirectly present and that you are the best person in order to find the solution for that very, very significant problem. In other words, you need to put down a very convincing business case. Other questions that you should answer is, why now? Why yourself and your institution? What kind of resources do you have? Not only the skills and expertise, but also the resources. What is going to happen if that significant problem is not solved? What are going to be likely the follow-up problems if this is solved and where the industry will head after that being solved? So now you need money and you need to find where you can get this money from. That's a very tricky task. Most countries, they have national agencies and funding bodies that they support the research within the country. There is a German research agency, DFT, the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research, the National Science Council of Taiwan, the Indian Council of Social Science Research, National Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, the British Research Councils and the US NSF, as well as the National Institute of Health. Usually their websites and portals are very comprehensive, so you can find all sorts of calls, specific project calls, as well as other ways to submit your proposed idea. Maybe it's not a call, it's just that you can make submissions any time throughout the year. Here in the UK, we call them standard mode. There are also funding agencies that they support multi-country research programs. Perhaps the largest of these is the European Commission, the European Union's program and the European Commission, where all countries in Europe, as well as some other countries outside Europe, are welcome to put up collaborative applications. But the question you need to ask yourself again is that do you really need that much money to do your research? In the early stages of the career, perhaps you need a smaller budget, maybe something which is internal within your institutions and that will enable the collaboration internally as well as externally. Generally, they will support some sort of like workshops and seminars, maybe a few presentations or you're traveling around, going meeting people and nurturing relationships as well as develop those ideas. So smaller funding can do the job and you can do brilliant with that. As you get along, you will need to get into the more prestigious funding, which again, not always is very big, but it is significant in order to be able to initiate your work. So you have a postdoc or you have a PhD student and you can spend a year or more and you can work with them into really shaping the ideas and developing your research program. Starting from a small scale, doing good research, excellent quality of research and seeing that as a stepping stone to something much bigger. The good thing about small grants is that you're not overburdened into the bureaucracy of the grant. So you don't really have to submit a hundred reports back. You don't have to spend so much time in managing the grant, the financial side of the things as well as the managerial side of the things. You can focus more on the research you have one or two people working with and you can do research yourself as well. So a lot of times we as academics, we go through that question ourselves. We need to make sure that we're asking the money, not for the sake of getting a grant, but actually doing something with that grant. So a lot of times we're just focusing on building large consortia or trying to get the funding just for the sake of it. What is important is to look at what you really need in order to do that research. At the end of the day, that is something that will be questioned by the reviewers anyway. So if they feel that your research doesn't need that much money to be conducted, then they will not really fund the program. So in that case, you either go for something smaller or perhaps you can actually expand on the research idea and bring more collaborators. Now, independent if it's a small application or a much bigger application, there is a procedure that you need to do in order to ensure that your application is of good quality and it's done some success. In other words, it's as competitive as possible. So having decided that you are going to go for an application, what I advise you is first to just write a hundred words of a summary for the idea. Just write that summary. You will find it quite difficult at the beginning, but only a hundred words. So only the interesting stuff. Write it, polish it again and again and again, and then give it to a few of your colleagues, a few of your friends, just to read it and ask for feedback. If you're a PhD student, of course, you can send it out to your supervisor or your mentor and again seek for feedback. The most important questions here is what is the aim of the project for that given time and what will be the deliverables at the end of the project. Of course, these need to be highlighted clearly in those 100 words summary. You should be as realistic as possible here. You don't really want to overstate your research. You don't want to undermine it. You definitely want to write the good things and that it will have a clear impact to the industry or to the academia, to the research world. But you don't really want to overpromise things. Things that most probably your reviewer will soon realize that they are not possible to be done, so you will be rejected. So make sure that the tone you're using, the way that you elaborate and you're explaining things is the appropriate, is really clear and you are not really overpromising, but it is an ambitious project. Also, another very important thing that you have to think about at that very early on stage is whether you will be doing the research alone or you will be having a co-investigator within your department or in another university. You have to subcontract some work. So think about who is actually going to do the research. Of course, it's very different if you're going to be the fellow of doing the research or you're going to get the money to employ someone else to do the research or is a collaborating project. Of course, this video is mostly focusing on you guys, the PhD students who are about to write the first grant. So you will be the fellow who's actually going to do the research. You will be the postdoc who is going to do the research after if this is successful. Another thing that you should look very carefully is whether those fellowship applications, they clearly say that they're evaluating the fellowship based on the CV, on the track record of the applicant. It's not happening in all cases, but in most cases when you're applying for a personal fellowship and it's not just a collaborative project that we can discuss in another video, then you will have to have a very strong track record. So at that point, if you believe that the idea that you're about to apply doesn't really correlate much with your existing research and your existing research is not there yet, then you better avoid it. You better first build your research, write a few good papers, publish them, and then thinking about applying for that fellowship. Or you will have to tune your research, make it more appropriate and applicable for your expertise. So it is important to make sure that what you will be doing, it is extending your research. Maybe it's a step change into your research, but at the same time, it's kind of complimentary. There is a continuity there. It's not that you're leaving back whatever you've done so far and you're starting something new. It doesn't work like that. It has to be some sort of incremental, sequential sort of move from where you are at the moment and where you want to go. That's fine if it's an ambitious project. That's absolutely fine. But you need to actually show that the skills that you have developed already can be used for that project later on. So that will reduce the risk of you failing completing the tasks of the project. I'm sure that your supervisor and mentors can actually help you a lot with that because they can see whether your expertise, your knowledge is really related to the idea that you're applying. What we're trying to do is to shape the idea based on the fellow's expertise. So if you decide to go for that application, I would advise you to work very closely with your supervisor or the potential supervisor who is going to be the host of your fellowship at that institution. So work together as much as possible and get lifted by their experience, their expertise and their good track in grant applications. If there is a possibility that you can publish before the application with those potential supervisors, in most cases it works well. Let me clarify that. There are grants that you should not have any relationship with the supervisor before you apply for that fellowship at that institution. But these are very few. In most cases, what they want to see, the panel, the reviewers I mean, is that you are bringing a different expertise. The supervisors got a different expertise. But these two together, they are very complementary and it is what is needed in order to succeed with the project. So if you have shown that you have already collaborated with that supervisor and you've published together a few papers, then that really strengthens your position as an applicant. At the end of the day, if you have worked with that supervisor before, even for another application that the supervisor has made in another grant, maybe a collaborative grant, that is going to be extremely good for you because you're learning at the same time, not only the way to write grants, but also how the potential supervisor is working. You get that experience of collaborating and that will help you a lot for writing your own grant. So after you have considered all these and you've checked the list with all the available calls out there, as well as the next available submission deadlines for calls and other grant applications, now is the best time to think about which one that you will tackle. Some of them are pretty similar. So you may be thinking of putting an application in the most appropriate one. And then if it's not successful, you will take back the application, you will take the feedback if there is any, if you're lucky and there is any, and you will make another application, you will prepare, polish it, improve it and submit it somewhere else. So let's say now that you've picked your agent, the most important thing now is to see what is this agent, this funding body's directives, what is the aim, what are the themes that they're supporting and where they are strategically funding. So that will help you a lot to go back to your idea and shape it correctly, as well as use some keywords throughout your application. There is very little point of applying for a grant in a particular funding body that is not really supporting that type of research. So say you are doing research on mechanical engineering and additive manufacturing and you're applying in a funding body that supports more kind of interdisciplinary research where there is a combination of social sciences and applied sciences. So that is most probably a bad idea. So you should be very specific with what are the themes that this funder is strategically supporting. This information is usually laid out at the very beginning of their websites, but in some cases you will need to scrutinise a little bit more to find exactly what they're supporting, what they're heading to. SEI Valve funding created to support researchers in the pre-award stage. It can help you analyse the funding environment. You can access award data for funding performance measurement, evaluation and strategic planning. Learn what publications are linked to certain funding programmes. Gain insight into funding history to see what researchers and what research they have done in the past and they received funding and find collaborators and learn about potential competitors. But don't miss the opportunity to visit their website and seek about information for different kinds of grants. So there's plenty of applications that are submitted all the time and they must follow their criteria. So there are mechanisms within the funding bodies that they will quickly select those applications that meet the requirements and unfortunately the rest will be just overlooked. So when you start writing your application, make sure that you have the assessment criteria also inside at all times and you're looking at these assessment criteria while you're writing your application. That will help you a lot to stay focused and actually see what the evaluators will be judging your application against. Lastly, make sure that the proposal is formatted as best as possible, does not have spelling and grammatical mistakes. If you have any previous grants, even if you are not the PI, the Principal Investigator or the Co-I but you're working for that grant, you can show that the grant was moving smoothly and nicely. So if there is any success, you can demonstrate that success and that guarantees your success in this project as well. If you manage to strategically use those guidelines and answer the correct questions as I've laid out earlier, you will manage to have a very competitive application. Nobody can guarantee you that the application will go through and you will be successful, but with a great research question that can be answered and in specific can be answered by you, with a very well written report, all inclusive and with a project that fits very nicely the criteria of that funding body, you stand a lot of chances to have a very successful grant application. We will have another video later on where we will describe all the different steps that you need to undertake when you're writing a collaborative project with other partners within or outside your institution or even a multi-country grant where you need to bring a lot of partners from different countries, including both academia and research. These are far more complicated and they don't only have to do with the type of the research, but also how the consortium will move all together. If you find this information useful, please hit the like button and if you have any questions or comments, please write them down below. I will be very happy to respond to those. I know that grant writing is a big story, it's difficult, it's taking time and it's really hard to say at any time that you're mastering that because you never know what's going to happen with a research grant application. So please consider those guidelines and keep on watching these videos for more information. Until next time, bye bye.

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PhDResearch Topics

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PhD Research Topics

Of course, the PhD topics of your doctorate are very important on which you do your project and write a research paper. When you select your PhD topics you must have a clear idea of what your doctoral dissertation will look like. In PhD topics, there are a few false impressions and indefinite throughout everyplace 'topics', and numerous PhDs assume that all they need is the overall theme, to begin with, their research from starting your PhD topics ... If you have ideas to choose your PhD topics, if you "work" on it and invest a lot of time, you will create one for yourself and you will be successful! you have a reasonable thought regarding what your PhD journey will be about. In any case, you despite everything need to pound out solid examination addresses that will assist you with organizing your exploration. By and by, settling on a theme and working out your exploration questions goes connected at the hip. Read more

How to choose a PhD topic

Basically, scholars need to know.

PhD topic selection is an important process and the one in which scholars get confused

Good PhD research Topics

Current research topics.

Select a topic in the area which you are interested in, and have more knowledge about.

Be confident with what you choose.

Choose topics that create impact or change by the research.

Be particular about what you are going to choose.

Steps to follow for choosing a PhD Topic

  • 1 Basic research is done in a particular area
  • 2 Following this do a search about products and techniques
  • 3 Explain the gaps in research and the solutions obtained to overcome
  • 4 Chapter Writing
  • 5 This explains to the reader why the topic was chosen and the need for the topic, improvements made in the topic.

Chapter Models

Chapter 1 - Introduction

Chapter 2 - Model and Implementation

Chapter 3 - Methodology

Chapter 4 - Analysis of data obtained

Chapter 5 - Body of the research

Select a unique area of research

Topic should make the reader to read the article

Choose flexible topics

Topic should be ease to implement

The main topic should cover overall ideas and concepts of the paper

A topic tells the main idea of a paragraph.

The first part of the topic should explain the idea and the rest explains the technique

Describe the working of the research

State the seriousness of the problem

Propose a solution for the problem

Describe the benefits of the research

Summarize the problem and solution

Research topics in Engineering

Mechanical engineering.

  • Machine design
  • Engineering materials
  • Designing, manufacturing, and robotics
  • Mechatronics
  • Fluid mechanics
  • Nanotechnology

Architecture engineering

  • Heritage and conservation
  • Landscape design
  • Technology and sustainability in architecture

Aeronautical and Aerospace engineering

  • Space flight mechanism
  • Aerodynamics
  • Computational aerodynamics it's designing
  • Experimental aerodynamics

Chemical engineering

  • Polymers and complex fluids
  • Sustainable energy
  • Catalysis and reactions

Instrumental engineering

  • Soft computing techniques
  • Automated analysis & understanding of biological cells
  • Combustion stability monitoring
  • Research on wind turbines

Civil engineering

  • Design construction and integration
  • Engineering informatics and simulation
  • Sensing, monitoring, and controlling intelligent systems
  • Innovative materials

Electronics and communication engineering

  • Fiber optic communication
  • Embedded systems
  • Nano-electronics
  • Human area network
  • Marine engineering

Computer science and engineering

  • Software engineering and programming
  • Computational intelligence
  • Computer graphics
  • Human-centered computing
  • Internet and web computing
  • Mobile and cloud computing
  • High-performance computing
  • Complier optimization
  • Data mining

Industrial Engineering

  • Optimization
  • Production planning and logistics
  • Modeling and simulation
  • Analytics and statistics
  • Education, case studies
  • Information system for production and management

Automobile engineering

  • Biomechanics
  • Designing and manufacturing

Biomedical engineering

  • Regenerative engineering
  • Cell & Molecular Imaging and bio-photonics
  • Neural engineering

Topics for research

Start to study thoroughly on selected research topics.

If you are doing more detailed research when looking for a Phd. Articles, books, and other sources for research want to change or refine your research topic based on your results. The topic development process will help you improve your writing and research skills and you will need to prepare the suggested answers for your research questions. Then you are ready to use the resources found and use the various sources effectively depending on your dissertation and answer your research problems

PhD Topic in Commerce

We are a group of companies and economies that include all the activities that lead to the transformation of goods and services from products to clients in PhD topics. For many years PhD topics in e-commerce have been the fastest-growing commercial industry

Many universities offer specialized PhD degrees in Commerce. At the graduate level. PhD topics in Commerce include international marketing, accounting, finance, marketing, or project management.

The work degree is designed to provide the multi-disciplinary knowledge and skills required in the modern work world.

  • Doctor of Philosophy
  • Commercial and International Economic Law
  • Management and Commerce
  • Doctor of Business Administration - Marketing

Base paper Implementation

A base paper is an example project report or a paper that has been distributed by an earlier researcher, that researchers use as reference material for finishing their PhD postulation. The thoughts introduced in the base papers are additionally investigated for a new understanding.

Write a Base paper for Implementation

For good result.

The research and result of the study must be consistent.

Plan and Process

The use of basic text should be similar to the function used as a guide. This is especially true for experimental surveys.

Research on the main work must be on the same topics. For example, research information can be used for analysis to solve a problem. This will ensure that the source code is updated.

The details in the main document should be clear and easy to understand in terms of modules, graphics, and diagrams.

The language used in the paper should be well researched and appropriate to a particular area of knowledge. This will help the scientist understand the range of technical terms that can be used. In addition, the base and shape of the paper should be in line with the appropriate style.

Thesis Writing

Every section of a proposal is imperative and similarly important. While all topics request equivalent consideration, the degree of trouble that they present for each researcher may vary. A few up comers discover the writing audit part is almost overwhelming; for others, information examination ends up being the fault list.

Research topics in technology

  • Artificial intelligence
  • Gold mining
  • Assistive technology
  • Information technology
  • Space exploration
  • Technological innovation

Research topic in medicine

  • Health care
  • Food and nutrition
  • Women health
  • Addiction and substance abuse
  • Disease and disorders
  • Mental health

Research topic in Management

  • Corporate planning
  • Financial management and accounting
  • Human resource management
  • Innovation and technology

PhD research topics in education

  • Transformative learning
  • Developing learner autonomy
  • Development education
  • Critical pedagogies

Research topics in Science

  • Neurobiology
  • Rapid-acting anti-depressants
  • Molecular Pharmacology
  • The evaluation of Health Impacts in Low and Middle-income Countries
  • Dementia Care through Community-Based Activity
  • Health and Green Space
  • Public Health based on the quality of drinking water

Research topics in mathematic

  • Algebra, Combinatory, and Geometry
  • Analysis and Partial Differential Equations
  • Applied Analysis
  • Mathematical Biology
  • Mathematical Finance
  • Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing
  • Topology and Differential Geometry

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phd proposal topics

52 Human Resources Management Topics for Research Paper

Non-trivial human resource research topics to use for your own project.

phd proposal topics

A Bit About Human Resource Management Research Topics

Human resource management is focused on hiring, training, and managing staff. Another important goal of the human resources (HR) department is to make sure the best working practices are implemented in the company. The choice of human resource management research topics is broad. It may vary from the analysis of workplace conditions and the problem of equal employment opportunities in the future to the solutions & proposals for talent management and career development.

human resource research topics

The challenges with research proposals are also vast, starting from choosing human resources management topics for research and ending with writing the research paper itself. Even though you were given a prompt with detailed instructions or someone who continually reminds us of basic things, it’s still not easy. Nevertheless, the most effective hack is to narrow a more expansive research direction down and focus on providing your target audience with the results addressing set goals.

How to Choose the Best Human Resource Research Topics

The human resource subject is very broad as it targets lots of areas. It means students can work with proposals about various hiring approaches and modern recruiting practices used in big companies or discuss hybrid work structures in various contexts. And these are just a few concepts of human resources research topics, as there are dozens of other topics to cover. For example, you can delve deeper what is human resources to find more promising study areas. Still, how to ensure your choice is good? It’s easy to understand when you follow these tips to select a proposal.

  • Ensure the topic is interesting to you. Nobody will write about something boring or cliched. Just like with the business proposal topics , where you should be passionate about the issue to cover it well.
  • Choose areas that you know well or want to explore further. The better you understand the selected human resource management research paper topics, the less time and effort you spend on your proposal.
  • Avoid generalizations and being too broad. If you investigate the wide research topics in human resource management, narrow it down and select the most valuable theme. Ensure the proposal will also be informative and engage readers.
  • Apply the latest trends effectively. Also, ensure the proposal topic allows you to conduct extensive research with a narrow focus. For example, you may apply trending themes to investigate some local cases.

Add these points to your proposal checklist, making identifying valuable human resource topics for research paper simpler. Even if you already received a prompt from your professor, you can still correct it a bit. Also, it all makes easier when you acquire help from professional proposal writing services , and the expert suggests the topics addressing these points 100%.

Compelling Human Resources Management Topics for Research Paper

Today, human resources is a proper science distinct into specific areas. Using various tools and innovations allows one to expand the academic scope and bring up complex business outcomes. It would be impossible without research. However, proper research is possible only when choosing an appropriate direction. Below are some interesting human resources research paper topics you might want to cover:

  • Why Is Job Analysis Important
  • How to Handle Overqualified Employees
  • Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses During an Employment Interview
  • The Effectiveness of Social Media in Human Resource Management
  • Should Human Resource Managers Hire Students
  • How Important Are Soft Skills
  • Using Virtual Reality to Train Employees
  • The Significance of HR KPIs in Employee Performance
  • Job Rotation and Job Redesign: What’s the Difference?
  • Are Online Video Courses Efficient to Train Stuff?
  • Significance of Corporate Universities
  • Effective Disciplining Methods
  • 360 Degree Feedback: Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Advantages of a Multigenerational Workforce
  • How Performance Assessments Impact Employee Productivity
  • Career Development and Employee Morale
  • Maintaining Work-Life Balance
  • Employee Motivation and Workplace Stress Management
  • How Can Human Resource Managers Establish Successful Communication During Remote Work
  • Identifying Workplace Bullying in Multiple Ways
  • How to Prevent Employees From Emotional Burnout
  • The Rise of the Global Labor Market
  • The Diversity Gap at the Workplace
  • Effective Methods of Workplace Monitoring
  • Facts Affecting Employee Retention

As you can see, research proposal topics in human resource management vary, and you can approach the problem from different angles and create proposals about the points that interest you the most. Choose ones that inspire you to research in-depth and create captivating proposals.

Unusual Research Proposals on Human Resource Management

If you want to move away from default proposal concepts and cover competitive human resource research topics, you may need a more comprehensive look at the whole area. Think about HR in the context of social and ethical issues, or try to seek through psychology research proposal topics. Employees, managers, and recruiters often face difficulties based on such matters.

This way, combining the HR area with other fields of knowledge may open new horizons for your investigations. Check out issue-based human resources management research paper topics.

  • Identifying Workplace Bullying
  • The Main Challenges of Human Resource Managers
  • Religious and Sexual Discrimination in the Workplace
  • Dealing With Sexual Harassment at the Workplace
  • How to Control Employees Following Safety Protocols
  • What Happens if Not Following Workplace Safety
  • Cases When HR Should Take Legal Action
  • Ways the Human Resource Specialist Protects the Employees or the Company
  • Preventing Osha Violations at Work
  • Training the Workplace to Minimize Potential Risks
  • The Role of Human Resources in Risk Management
  • What to Do When an Employee Is Assaulted at Work?
  • Ethical Considerations Regarding Monitoring Employees During Remote Work
  • The Importance of Having Equal Employment Opportunities
  • Direct and Indirect Workplace Discrimination
  • How to Report About Workplace Harassment
  • Consequences of Violating Safety Rules at the Workplace

It’s also essential to find appropriate sample research papers on human resource management that help you understand what a good proposal should look like. It will give you numerous insights on the proper structure, formatting, as well as approaches to inspire readers and motivate them to look forward.

Trending Human Resources Research Paper Topics

As we said before, choosing trending human resources management topics for research paper is a good option. By doing so, you update knowledge in the area and actualize information. However, customize it to your proposal case, such as a local situation you can explore and analyze.

  • Using AI to Manage Employee Performance
  • How Poor Dynamics Negatively Affect Employee Performance
  • Data-Driven Strategies in Human Resource Departments
  • Should Pre-employment Assessments Be Considered Over Resumes
  • How Virtual Teams Impact Productivity
  • Disadvantages of Remote Work
  • The Rise of Mobile-Friendly Recruitment
  • Is It Possible to Spot Employee Behavior Change Using AI
  • How to Make Virtual Team Buildings Impactful
  • How Poor Mental Health Affects Productivity

Choosing a trending topic is advantageous. For example, if a person needs to compose a PhD law research proposal , the most popular themes will be in favor. It could be a topic about how the law sees terrorism in different countries.

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DOWNLOAD Here More Research Proposal Topic Ideas in Human Resource Management!

Need assistance with human resources management research paper topics.

With so many human resource management topics for research paper, you can take one to cover or develop your own using available examples. However, if you still don’t feel confident about choosing an appropriate topic or composing a proposal yourself, turn to our specialized and professional services. We are always ready to assist you regardless of project complexity and deadlines.

Entrust us with developing your research papers human resource management prepared by specialists well-versed in your chosen field of investigation. And be sure to get a top-quality proposal that your mentors and supervisors will greatly appreciate.

Stop hesitating and choose the most comfortable and effective method to complete the task!

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    PhD topics in Commerce include international marketing, accounting, finance, marketing, or project management. The work degree is designed to provide the multi-disciplinary knowledge and skills required in the modern work world. Doctor of Philosophy. Commercial and International Economic Law. Management and Commerce.

  24. 52 Human Resource Research Topics You May Want to Cover

    If you want to move away from default proposal concepts and cover competitive human resource research topics, you may need a more comprehensive look at the whole area. Think about HR in the context of social and ethical issues, or try to seek through psychology research proposal topics.