Research proposals: some general guidelines
A good proposal will contain the following elements:
- a straightforward, descriptive, and informative title
- a clear account of exactly what the question is that your research will address
- an account of why this question is important and worth investigating
- an assessment of how your own research will engage with recent study in the subject
- a brief account of the methodology and approach you will take
- a discussion of the primary sources that your research will draw upon, including printed books, manuscripts, archives, libraries, or museums
- an indicative bibliography of secondary sources that you have already consulted and/or are planning to consult
The length of the proposal will normally be approximately 1000 words.
Your application, including your references and research proposal, will be passed on to the Postgraduate Convener of the Subject Area in which you wish to study. He/She will approach those members of staff whose expertise and research interests most closely match the topic/area of your proposed study.