Guidance about the research project

The research project timeline

A research project should meet the following targets.

Year 2

• September to January – develop the research proposal
• February – submit the research proposal
• March to April – write protocol
• May, June and September –
  • finalise protocol and Integrated Research Application System (IRAS) application
  • allow a minimum of 4 months to get all approvals in place
  • submit ethics and governance applications in May/June
• October – data collection starts and dissertation submitted in April (Year 3)

Year 3

• April – dissertation submitted
• May – presentations

Structure of the research proposal

1. A title that clearly conveys the theme of the research project.
2. A main research question that will be the focus of the research project.
3. An explanation of why the research topic is important.
4. A brief literature review of reading around the subject.
5. A proposed methodology for answering the research question.
6. Time scheduled for the research project.

What is the research cycle?

A research project starts with the research topic and then follows the cycle below.

Eligibility criteria for student research

In September 2021, the Health Research Authority (HRA) introduced new eligibility criteria for standalone student research.

The new criteria means that some master’s level students will be able to apply for ethics review and HRA and Health and Care Research Wales (HCRW) Approval or devolved administration equivalent. Standalone research at undergraduate level that requires ethics review and/or HRA and HCRW Approval (or devolved administration equivalent) cannot take place. Arrangements for doctoral research remain unchanged.