Thursday, January 24, 2013

Choose A Topic For A Graduate Degree

Choosing a topic to research in depth is typically very important in graduate programs.


Choosing a topic for research within your graduate degree is an important step toward reaching your goal. Your research will help you broaden your experience within your field of study and may even help advance the field itself. When choosing a topic for your graduate degree, it is very important that you choose something you are very interested in and will hold your focus, instead of something that seems popular or simple.


Instructions








1. Read over all requirements for your thesis or dissertation paper. What does your department require of you? How much research is expected and what is the time table? Be sure you are fully clear on this matter before proceeding.


2. Think about what interests you most in your field. If it is difficult to figure it out on your own, try making notes on what you have enjoyed the most during your studies.


3. Make questions out of your notes. For example, if you are very interested in the role of women during World War II, you can write "How did women influence the outcome of World War II?". If you are not absolutely sure of your topic, write down several questions.


4. Read about similar topics that have been done. Depending on your area and level of study, some schools may require totally original projects while others may simply just want your take on the issue. Find out what studies have been done on your questions, how available the research is to you and how easy or difficult it will be arrange more research.


5. Talk to your advisor. Discuss with her how feasible this project is and whether or not a faculty member will be able to help you. Your advisor will be your most trusted research assistant as you figure out your topic and she can help you discover whether or not it is a viable topic to explore within the field, how it will help you with your future endeavors and whether or not it is a necessary topic within the field.

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