What to Include in a Dissertation Proposal

What to Include in a Dissertation Proposal

A dissertation proposal should provide a clear roadmap for your research, demonstrating your understanding of the topic, the research process, and the methodology. Here’s what to include:

1. Title Page

• Title of the Dissertation

• Your Name

• Your Department and University

• Date

2. Introduction

• A concise introduction to the research problem or question.

• A brief explanation of why the topic is significant.

• Your research objectives or hypotheses.

3. Literature Review

• A summary of key research related to your topic.

• Identification of gaps in the current literature.

• Explanation of how your dissertation will contribute to the field.

4. Research Questions or Hypotheses

• Clearly defined research questions or hypotheses your dissertation will address.

5. Methodology

• Research Design: Qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods.

• Data Collection: Tools, techniques, and instruments for gathering data.

• Sampling: The population or participants, sampling methods, and sample size.

• Data Analysis: How you will analyze the data.

• Ethical Considerations: How you will address ethical concerns.

6. Timeline

• A step-by-step plan of how you will complete your dissertation, including key milestones and deadlines.

7. Proposed Chapter Outline

• A tentative structure of your dissertation, with brief descriptions of what each chapter will cover.

8. References

• A list of the key scholarly sources you have consulted or plan to use in your research.