Grad Coach (R)

What’s Included: Research Proposal Template

Our free dissertation/thesis proposal template covers the core essential ingredients for a strong research proposal. It includes clear explanations of what you need to address in each section, as well as straightforward examples and links to further resources.

The research proposal template covers the following core elements:

  • Introduction & background (including the research problem)
  • Literature review
  • Research design / methodology
  • Project plan , resource requirements and risk management

The cleanly-formatted Google Doc can be downloaded as a fully editable MS Word Document (DOCX format), so you can use it as-is or convert it to LaTeX.

PS – if you’d like a high-level template for the entire thesis, you can we’ve got that too .

Research Proposal Template FAQS

What types of research proposals can this template be used for.

The proposal template follows the standard format for academic research projects, which means it will be suitable for the vast majority of dissertations and theses (especially those within the sciences), whether they are qualitative or quantitative in terms of design.

Keep in mind that the exact requirements for the introduction chapter/section will vary between universities and degree programs. These are typically minor, but it’s always a good idea to double-check your university’s requirements before you finalise your structure.

Is this template for an undergrad, Master or PhD-level proposal?

This template can be used for a research project at any level of study. Doctoral-level projects typically require the research proposal to be more extensive/comprehensive, but the structure will typically remain the same.

How long should my research proposal be?

The length of a research proposal varies by institution and subject, but as a ballpark, it’s usually between 1,500 and 3,000 words.

To be safe, it’s best to check with your university if they have any preferences or requirements in terms of minimum and maximum word count for the research propsal.

How detailed should the methodology of the proposal be?

You don’t need to go into the fine details of your methodology, but this section should be detailed enough to demonstrate that your research approach is feasible and will address your research questions effectively. Be sure to include your intended methods for data collection and analysis.

Can I include preliminary data or pilot study results in my proposal?

Generally, yes. This can strengthen your proposal by demonstrating the feasibility of your research. However, make sure that your pilot study is approved by your university before collecting any data.

Can I share this template with my friends/colleagues?

Yes, you’re welcome to share this template in its original format (no editing allowed). If you want to post about it on your blog or social media, we kindly request that you reference this page as your source.

What format is the template (DOC, PDF, PPT, etc.)?

The research proposal template is provided as a Google Doc. You can download it in MS Word format or make a copy to your Google Drive. You’re also welcome to convert it to whatever format works best for you, such as LaTeX or PDF.

Do you have templates for the other chapters?

Yes, we do. We are constantly developing our collection of free resources to help students complete their dissertations and theses. You can view all of our template resources here .

Can Grad Coach help me with my dissertation/thesis?

Yes, you’re welcome to get in touch with us to discuss our private coaching services .

Further Resources: Proposal Writing

The template provides step-by-step guidance for each section of your research proposal, but if you’d like to learn more about how to write up a high-quality research proposal, check out the rest of our free proposal-related resources:

  • Research Proposal 101
  • Examples of research proposals
  • How To Find A Research Topic
  • How To Find A Research Gap
  • Developing Your Golden Thread
  • How To Write A Research Proposal
  • 8 Common Proposal Writing Mistakes

You can also visit the Grad Coach blog for more proposal-related resources.

Free Webinar: How To Write A Research Proposal

If you’d prefer 1-on-1 support with your research proposal, have a look at our private coaching service , where we hold your hand through the research process, step by step.

Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer.

To browse Academia.edu and the wider internet faster and more securely, please take a few seconds to  upgrade your browser .

Enter the email address you signed up with and we'll email you a reset link.

  • We're Hiring!
  • Help Center

paper cover thumbnail

Writing a Thesis/ Research Proposal: A step by Step Guide

Profile image of Dr. Awais H. Gillani

Related Papers

World's Smile

research proposal master thesis pdf

Tadesse Fufa

DAE HOON JANG

Serafin Talisayon

Robertus Willy

Dr. John Karanja , JOHN KARANJA, PhD

research proposal is a comprehensive plan for a research project. It is a written description of a research plan that has to be undertaken. It determines the specific areas of research, states the purpose, scope, methodology, overall organization and limitations of the study. It also estimates its requirements for equipment (if necessary), finance and possible personnel.

Emil Ilyasov

Journal Academica, Volume 1, July 2010, p. 1-5. [ISSN 2026 559X]

What is the purpose of a Research proposal, its components and how should it be presented? In the following we briefly consider all these issues which have been a challenge to students who are to submit no research proposal before embarking on a Research Project for a partial fulfillment of conditions for the award of a degree by their respective institutions.

Faith Gatune

MASEREKA GILBERT

RELATED PAPERS

Diego Benavides Martínez

The European Physical Journal C

Value in Health

Stefan Walzer

Nuclear Instruments & Methods in Physics Research Section B-beam Interactions With Materials and Atoms

Cell Metabolism

gordon strewler

Diacronie. Studi di Storia Contemporanea

ANDREZA SANTOS CRUZ MAYNARD

Electronic Journal of Biotechnology

Segundo Maita

mohamed bakarr

Scientific reports

Gunilla Westergren-thorsson

Boutros Ghannam

Graciela Guerrero

Proceedings of the 2020 AERA Annual Meeting

Rick Lybeck

De los procesos de cambio al cambio con sentido

Juan Díaz Torres

Logistics Thought

نشریه علمی اندیشه آماد

Photochemistry and Photobiology

SRI LESTARI

Pacientke z rakom dojk - trendi in novosti

andreja klinc

Agricultural Reviews

PURNIMA PATHAK

Korean Journal of Chemical Engineering

Shaikh Maula Ali

Le Philosophoire

Thierry Jandrok

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Megan Morsheimer

Quaestus Multidisciplinary Research Journal

Cipriana Sava

Cukurova University Faculty of Education Journal

Selda Bakır

Irapuan Peixoto

Archives of plastic surgery

Jung Dug Yang

KRITIK SENI: DI BALIK POHON HAYAT: KRITIK SENI AKADEMIK MENGUNGKAP

Marcelina Herminia

  •   We're Hiring!
  •   Help Center
  • Find new research papers in:
  • Health Sciences
  • Earth Sciences
  • Cognitive Science
  • Mathematics
  • Computer Science
  • Academia ©2024

IMAGES

  1. Understanding What a Thesis Proposal is and How to Write it

    research proposal master thesis pdf

  2. Follow our simple guide on how to create a thesis proposal

    research proposal master thesis pdf

  3. Thesis Proposal : EECS Communication Lab

    research proposal master thesis pdf

  4. Research Proposal Writing Services

    research proposal master thesis pdf

  5. FREE 10+ Master Thesis Proposal Samples in PDF

    research proposal master thesis pdf

  6. 💣 Proposal thesis statement. How to Write a Successful Thesis Proposal

    research proposal master thesis pdf

VIDEO

  1. How to write a successful master thesis proposal ? proposal writing tips

  2. How to make a research proposal for Ph.D. / Research Grant by Prof. Mahima Kaushik II Important tips

  3. Thesis and Dissertation Evaluation Format in All Ethiopian Universities(በአማርኛ)

  4. Finalizing Your Research Proposal

  5. Thesis Guidelines Part One(Thesis guidelines for Master level students)

  6. Motorcar Compositor Demo 1

COMMENTS

  1. PDF A PROPOSAL FOR A MASTER'S THESIS

    A Thesis Proposal is a document that sets forth what is to be studied as a thesis project, why and in what way. It contains a number of important sections. The purpose of the proposal is to communicate the plan for the work to the faculty of the Division of Emerging Media Studies via the First Reader (principal thesis advisor) and a Second Reader.

  2. Research Proposal Example (PDF + Template)

    Detailed Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template. If you're getting started crafting your research proposal and are looking for a few examples of research proposals, you've come to the right place. 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 ...

  3. PDF A Sample Research Proposal with Comments

    A Sample Research Proposal with Comments A research project or thesis will take at least two semesters to complete. Prior to starting a research, i.e. ... While the master schedule provides a global view of a project and the overall execution strategy, a look-ahead schedule offers a detail account of operational constraints and a detailed ...

  4. PDF Writing a thesis proposal

    2.3 Requirements of a Proposal. In order to achieve its purpose, a thesis proposal must fulfil the following general requirements: • Establish a context for your research and demonstrate the need for it. • Show that your study will meet this need, and how it will meet this need, i.e. the method you will use.

  5. (PDF) Research proposal : a guideline for master and doctorate candidates

    Abstract and Figures. The present document provides guidelines for writing an excellent and relevant research proposal at MSc as well as at PhD level. Writing a meticulous proposal will help ...

  6. PDF Thesis & Dissertation Proposal Guide

    Your thesis proposal should be developed in consultation with your supervisor and ... MA, EdD, or PhD Qualitative or Quantitative Research Design Proposal Format Section Pages Title Introduction (Brief History of the Problem, Rationale) (1/2 page) ... Conventional Masters Thesis Format* Chapters 1. Introduction and Research Problem— 20-25 pp.

  7. PDF How to Write a Good Postgraduate Research Proposal

    who have been asked to submit a research proposal as part of their application for admission to a research degree. It is also relevant to students who are applying to external bodies for postgraduate research funding. Undertaking a research degree, whether it is a Masters by Research, a PhD, or another type of degree such as a EdD, or DMus, can

  8. PDF Annotated Sample Research Proposal: Process and Product

    The basic purposes of all research proposals are to. convince. the reader that: (a) the research project has clear objectives; (b) the research project is worth doing (it is significant. / important in some sense and will make an original. contribution to knowledge / understanding in the. field)

  9. How to Write a Research Proposal

    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.

  10. Free Download: Research Proposal Template (Word Doc + PDF)

    What's Included: Research Proposal Template. Our free dissertation/thesis proposal template covers the core essential ingredients for a strong research proposal. It includes clear explanations of what you need to address in each section, as well as straightforward examples and links to further resources. The research proposal template covers ...

  11. PDF Master's Research Proposal Title of your Mater's Research Proposal

    As a guide the master's research proposal should be no longer than about 20 pages (including appendices and references) - depending on the Engineering and the Built Environment discipline. The Format of the Research Proposal The proposal should be typed in Times New Roman (font size 12), using 1.5 line spacing (Use only one font throughout ...

  12. PDF A Sample Quantitative Thesis Proposal

    NOTE: This proposal is included in the ancillary materials of Research Design with permission of the author. Hayes, M. M. (2007). Design and analysis of the student strengths index (SSI) for nontraditional graduate students. Unpublished master's thesis. University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE. with the task of deciding who to admit into graduate ...

  13. PDF How to Write a Graduate Proposal

    A plan of action and justification for research that you plan to do A step towards gaining approval for thesis and/or dissertation A way to receive funding for research Ex. Write a proposal for grant money

  14. PDF Master's Thesis Guide

    The thesis demonstrates the student's comprehensive knowledge of the substantive area of the study and the research methods used. It also represents the culminating product of the master's program in which students are expected to integrate and apply the concepts and methods learned in coursework.". 4.

  15. PDF Writing Research Proposals for Social Sciences and Humanities in a

    Table 7-1 Breakdown of the research proposal per semester 136 Table 7-2 Main assessment criteria 141 Figures Figure 3-1 Link between topic, question and conceptual significance 40 Figure 3-2 Logical sequence of a research proposal based on a research question 53 Figure 3-3 Logical sequence of a research proposal based on a

  16. PDF Guidelines for the preparation of a Master's Thesis proposal

    The proposal will also be commented on by your fellow students and the supervisors in the thesis seminar and must be comprehensible to them. As a rule, your written proposal should not be much longer than three pages. Additionally, the proposal should include the planned outline of the thesis, schedule and bibliography (see below: 4.5 to 4.7).

  17. PDF Thesis Proposal Guidelines

    Thesis Proposal Guidelines 1 Thesis Proposal Guidelines Due: Wednesday, July 12 2017 at 3pm (Firm deadline - no extensions!) Prepare a succinct proposal (typically 6-8 double-spaced pages, 1" margins, 12 pt font) concisely describing your proposed project, why it is important, and what you hope to learn from it. Avoid

  18. (PDF) How to Write a Research Proposal and a Thesis: A Manual for

    How to Write a Research Proposal and a Thesis - 2 nd ed. M.E. Hamid (2013) ( 12 ) RE F E R E N C E S ( B IB L I O G R A P H Y )

  19. PDF Thesis Proposal Defense Guidance for Students in the Master's of

    Thesis ProposalDefenseGuidance for Students in the Master's ofGeosciences Degree. One key step toward completing the M.S. degree in Geosciences is defending a thesis research proposal. This document provides general guidelines for completing this step. Completion of GEO 5103 Current Topics in the Geosciences and GEO 5113 Research Design in ...

  20. PDF How to Write a Research Proposal

    Methodology. This is a very important part of your research outline and should receive a lot of attention. It may well be the longest section of your proposal. Give detailed information about how you intend to answer your research questions. Anyone who reads your proposal will want to know the sources and quality of evidence you will consult ...

  21. PDF Template for Bachelor- and Master thesis proposals

    Template for Bachelor- and Master thesis proposals . Department of Conservation Biology, University of Göttingen , 01. st. ... identify research gaps, i.e. aspects that have not yet been covered by others and are worth examining. For thesis including lab or field experiments, or pseudo-experimental approaches at the landscape scale ...

  22. Writing a Thesis/ Research Proposal: A step by Step Guide

    3 Re q u ire m e n t s o f a P ro p o s a l In order to achieve its purpose, a thesis proposal must fulfil the following general requirements: • Establish a context for your research and demonstrate the need for it • Show that your study will meet this need, and how it will meet this need, i.e. the method you will use More specifically, a ...

  23. (PDF) HOW TO WRITE YOUR MASTER THESIS: THE EASY HANDBOOK

    PDF | Writing a Master's thesis is a challenging mission in higher education. This work requires in-depth research executed by motivated students. At... | Find, read and cite all the research ...