phd topics on

626 Dissertation Topics for Ph.D. and Thesis Ideas for Master Students

If you are about to go into the world of graduate school, then one of the first things you need to do is choose from all the possible dissertation topics available to you. This is no small task. You are likely to spend many years researching your Master’s or Ph.D. topic and writing the text. This means that choosing a dissertation topic should not be taken lightly.

No worries! Just read this article by our Custom Writing service, and you’ll find:

• a collection of great thesis topics on finance, education, management, law, etc.
• a range of tips on choosing a killing Ph.D. topic.
• 👍 Top 10 Dissertation Topics
• 🆚 Thesis vs Dissertation
• 🔝 Top 10 Thesis Topics
• 🎓 Thesis Topics List
• ✅ How to Choose a Topic

👍Top 10 Dissertation Topics

• Ethical alternatives to animal testing.
• What’s the future of the Dead Sea?
• Does accent affect singing ability?
• The importance of corporate values.
• How does inflation affect small businesses?
• Is homeschooling the future of education?
• How does Tourette’s syndrome affect one’s daily life?
• How to conduct market analysis for e-commerce.
• Has globalization affected cultural appropriation?

🆚 Dissertation vs. Thesis: Is There a Difference?

People often consider a thesis and a dissertation to be the same thing. Yet, there is an important distinction between them. The key difference is that you need a thesis to complete a master’s degree, while a dissertation is necessary for obtaining a doctorate. Keep in mind that it’s vice versa in European higher education.

Here are some other differences:

Despite these differences, theses and dissertations have a lot in common:

• You need them to complete a degree.
• Both require certain levels of expertise and writing skills.
• You defend an argument in both of them.
• Plagiarism is prohibited in both theses and dissertations.

🔝 Top 10 Thesis Topics for 2024

• The consequences of obesity.
• The influence of social media .
• Economic development and happiness.
• Feminism in the United States.
• The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Racism in schools and colleges.
• Overeducation in the labor market.
• DNA evidence in criminal justice.
• Sales forecasting techniques.
• Wage difference among athletes.

🎓 Thesis Topics & Ideas

Below, you’ll find a collection of excellent topics for a thesis. To simplify the task, it’s not a bad idea to use a topic chooser. We’ve also prepared a checklist that will help you make the right choice. If you agree with the following statements, you’ve chosen a good thesis topic:

• You are interested in this subject.  It will be easier for you to work on it if you like your area of research. Remember that you will have to spend long hours looking through various data. You need to stay motivated.
• The topic is helpful in your career path.  Choose a topic that you can apply to further research if you plan to pursue your career in the academic field. Choose something that you can use in your CV if you decided to work in the industry.
• There is enough available research data.  Don’t choose a topic that is too trivial or uncommon. It is essential to find enough relevant information. Consult your supervisor to understand if you can proceed with it.
• The topic isn’t too broad or too narrow.  Otherwise, it will be harder for you to find credible sources and relevant data.
• You already have an understanding of it . Make a list of thesis topics that include the issues you have researched before. It will save you some time and allow you to evaluate your opportunities.
• Your topic is unique.  Make sure there are no other papers that explore exactly the same issue. The value of your work is your original contribution to the research. If somebody has already investigated the topic, there is not much sense in proceeding with it.

Wondering where to find the most current topic for your research? We’ve collected them below.

Computer Science Thesis Topics

Computers surround us everywhere. From hospitals to home offices, it’s impossible to imagine life without them. A doctorate in computer science can allow you many career opportunities!

• The latest developments in AI use for healthcare services . Healthcare in the US is expensive for its citizens. One way to reduce the cost is using computer algorithms. This technology research topic lets you explore how AI helps physicians with their tasks.
• Computer security for public institutions. Several allegations about hackers stealing data from the US government emerged in recent years. With this dissertation idea, study public cybersecurity. Also, discuss ways to improve cybersecurity practices.
• Visual recognition system architecture: real-time object detection. Discuss a system based on neural networks capable of detecting objects. Focus on the virtual environment. You can alter this trending topic in computer science for real-life settings.
• Blockchain application outside financial technologies. Analyze and discuss the implications of using blockchain systems outside of the fintech sector. For example, study its use for public services and in government agencies. This topic allows exploring ways of applying established algorithms.
• Machine learning and text structures. Discuss ways of visualizing text categorization. Focus on complex hierarchical structures of texts. This topic is suitable for postgraduates.
• Encrypted search: security, performance, and usage. Discuss the use of encryptions to protect data. Say how we can improve it for effective information search.
• Use of computers in education . Study how algorithms can improve learning. This topic can be altered for other fields. For example, choose AI in business or agriculture.
• Graphics and visual computing: current state and the future. By now, CAD programs are an integral part of every engineer’s tool kit. Your thesis can analyze the potential of those programs. What would improve their performance? Is there a chance that they will become obsolete?
• Multimedia databases parsing and indexing. Netflix and YouTube require technology to search across their multimedia databases. This dissertation can be a survey on best practices. Or, add a company name to the title and focus your research on it.
• AI Marketing: the use of algorithms to improve advertising. In the previous list of research question examples, you can choose a narrow marketing theme. Then, discuss the implications of such algorithms.
• Study computation of models for virtual environments .
• Cybersecurity challenges for automated vehicles.
• AI and vehicle automation: potential safety gaps.
• Computer graphics: perspectives for medical imaging.
• Research the use of computer algorithms for medical analysis.
• Discuss the role of bioinformatics in healthcare improvement.
• How is a computer-aided design used in creating automobile parts?
• Review the best practices for System Level Testing of distributed systems.
• Agile project management for software engineers.
• Software development risks analysis for successful employment.
• Study the security mechanisms for WLAN networks .
• Malicious botnets and network worms: an overview.
• What are the best practices in ICT systems development?
• Web-based document management systems using XML.
• Best algorithms for cluster generation.
• Methods for improving Open Web Architecture.
• Analyze software solutions for the increased energy efficiency.
• Protection of systems against terror attacks: a case study and analysis.
• New methods of risk management during software development.
• Analyze how Web space requirements are changing.
• Analyze how e-publishing is affecting libraries.
• New methods for studying the behavior of malware, viruses, and worms with the use of secure programming and runtime environments.
• Analyze redundancy and fault recovery in the 4G wireless network.
• Analyze the implementation and analysis of the optimal algorithm vs the heuristic algorithm for the generation of clusters.
• Analyze how full-text databases affect search engines.

Humanities and Art History Thesis Topics

Do you want to put your passion into words? Would you like to share your ideas with the world? Then pursuing a Ph.D. in the arts or humanities is the right path for you.

• The history of cinema : past and present. With this history dissertation topic, focus on how cinema developed. Explore the period starting from the first short films by the Lumiere brothers. Finish the discussion with modern-day Hollywood examples.
• Art or commerce: a case study of Hollywood films. Discuss the intersection between artistic expression and profit. This exciting arts topic focuses on modern cinema. You can use examples of art-house movies and modern commercially successful ones.
• Hollywood vs. Bollywood . Compare the two distinct film production centers for this art thesis. Next, discuss how local cultures impact Hollywood and Bollywood movies’ direction, genres, and plots.
• The use of visual tools in interior design . This dissertation topic is an intersection between arts and computer science. The focus is on how visualization tools help to create design projects.
• Racism in the 21st-century literature. Focus on how the narratives about racism have changed. Include examples from poetry and prose of this era. Compare it to works published in the past.
• The cultural aesthetic of Afrofuturism in literature. This dissertation idea allows you to explore the intersection of arts. Specifically, see how culture, philosophy of science, and history manifest in Afrofuturism.
• The social value of ecopoetry. Analyze how literature that focuses on ecological problems. Discuss environmental consciousness and environmental issues.
• Graphic novels: the best examples and implications for the development of literature. What does it mean when literary classics are converted into graphic novels? Incorporate the question if graphic novels can become part of the literary canon.
• Theater of the Absurd in the 1950s and 1960s. Discuss this form of theatrical art. Examine how it emerged and why it became influential.
• Post World War II art: cinema and literature. Use examples of films and literary works. Discuss major works of the post-WWII era and their themes.
• Futurism and the Czech avant-garde : the artistic connection between Europe’s East and West.
• Study the phenomenon of the hero archetype.
• Assess dancing as a form of meditation.
• Review the common elements of various African dances.
• Folk dances across Western Europe.
• Discuss regional dances and dance as a ritual.
• Animation as a modern art form.
• Research the art of glass-making and its prospects for the future.
• Analyze the cultural impact of The Beatles beyond music.
• Literature censorship in the US.
• Examine the intersection of ecology and arts.
• Heidelberg Project: is it a model for creating art in urban areas?
• Study kinetic sculptures of the 20th century.
• What characterizes social activism in 20 th -century rock music?
• Jazz in the 21st century: a potential for revival.
• The history of design in various periods of human existence (the ancient times, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, etc.).
• Design as art.
• Philosophy of design.
• Separate branches of design ( interior design , car design, toy design, etc.).
• Stylistic peculiarities of a certain designer.
• Web design as a modern quintessence of design.
• Social significance of design.
• The birth of Communism as it relates to Stendhal.
• The relationship between politics and literature in the 19 th century.
• An analysis and case study of artists and art during times of war.
• How contemporary art is related to American suffering.
• Analyze of how racism relates to the family unit.

List of Science Topics for Your Thesis

A dissertation in science will probably require you to run numerous experiments. Many of them will probably go wrong. But the one that does work might be the next big breakthrough! Find a suitable research theme in the following list of topics:

• Bacterial injections for the treatment of cancer tumors. Injecting bacteria into tumors is a fairly new approach to treating cancer. Review the mechanism of action and evaluate the potential of this method for curing cancer.
• Computer imagining and AI for cancer detection. Examine how AI-assisted cancer screening improves accuracy. Include early detection implications and usage in hospitals.
• Ethics of organ donations and transplantation. With this dissertation topic in science, examine the ethics of encouraging people to donate their organs. Include the implications for medical research and practice.
• An epidemiological and molecular approach to cancer prevention. This topic idea suggests assessing the current understanding of how cancer develops as well as potential prevention strategies.
• Ways of speeding up vaccine development and testing. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that the process of vaccine development is relatively slow. It takes a long time to ensure proper testing. You may discuss these issues in your biochemistry dissertation.
• The current state of research into ultra-fast rechargeable batteries. The topic of batteries and energy attracts lots of attention. With this topic, you can examine how to improve the design of aluminum-ion batteries. Include ways to decrease their charging time.
• Nanotechnologies in drug delivery: electrospraying. Current research shows the great potential of nanotechnologies. In particular, the electrospraying technique makes nanoparticle delivery more efficient.
• Prevalence of various Helicobacter Pylori virulence in a population. Conduct quantitative research and examine a sample of patients to determine the number infected with Helicobacter Pylori.
• The relationship between gut microbiota and the person’s appetite. Your research can explore the theory that the gut microbiome has varied effects on the person’s body. Review the implications for obesity treatment for different gut microbiomes.
• The age of antibiotics: is it over? Examine the use of antibiotics and the reasons for its decline. Discuss the evolving nature of bacteria that require remedies other than antibiotics. Include quantitative data in this dissertation for a specific type of disease.
• CRISPR method for studying human DNA.
• The study of human evolution: latest discoveries.
• Denisovans from Siberia: a new type of hominid discovered.
• Study the use of AI in archeology.
• Conduct a study of the Neanderthal genome sequence.
• What are the ways of improving solar cell efficiency?
• The carbon footprint of modern production: how do companies damage the environment?
• Research the use of cesium in solar panels.
• The era of supercapacitors: are we ending the use of batteries?
• Assess the efficiency of Robot Suits for people with permanent paralysis.
• Microscale medial robots: potential applications.
• Look into stem cell mobilization and its mechanisms.
• Discuss the ethics of automated cars.
• Space robotics: can we design robots capable of exploring space?
• Evaluate the efficiency and potential of lithium-based rechargeable batteries.
• Morality and ethics of stem cell research.
• Is behavior controlled or affected by genetics and to what level.
• A look at methods of improving risk factors post-stroke.
• Analyze of Chinese herbal practice and its relevance to conventional medicine.
• Analyze the effect schools have on childhood obesity.

• New methods of using existing data to gather information that is useful.
• An in-depth look at the factors affecting the decline of the immune system with age.
• Analyze of the potential effect of nanotechnology on health and the environment.
• Analyze of toxicity levels of inhaled nanoparticles.
• The usefulness of nanotechnology in curing some types of cancer.
• An analysis and case study of the treatment of patients who have experienced a loss of memory.
• Analyze the use of DNA typing of remains to identify missing people and the victims of crime.
• The response of immune deficiency diseases to the activation of T-cell subsets.
• The influence and importance of IT in the field of biomedicine.

Architecture Thesis Topics

Architecture is more than just aesthetics. That’s become especially clear ever since the doctrine “form follows function” gained traction. Whether you’re into baroque or Bauhaus, there’s plenty to discover about architecture.

• Religious architecture in the British Empire. Research the transformation of religious buildings and how it affected architecture in general.
• Modernist architecture in the USSR at the beginning of the 20th century. Compare modernist architecture in the USSR with other countries.
• Urban greening and its influence on buildings’ design. The dissertation proposal can include green roofs as the main point of research.
• Brutalism and its history in New York. Provide historical research of brutalism in New York and discuss how it affects modern architecture.
• Modern-day aboriginal settlements in Australia. Using examples from media and research, indicate how aboriginal settlements are perceived and handled today.
• Transformation of the urban design in the 21st century. Using London, Hong-Kong, and New York as examples, provide an in-depth discussion of changes in the urban design.
• The architectural history of Seattle. Conduct research and write a proposal that will compare different architectural styles seen in Seattle.
• Integration of culture in environmental design. In this proposal, you can use large cities in Asia as primary examples of the synergy between culture and architecture.
• The architecture of residential buildings during the second half of the 20th century. Choose one or several large cities (e.g., Berlin, Miami, Kyoto) as the basis for your research.
• The history of Moscow Avant-Garde. Use both Soviet and modern Russian research on Avant-Garde to present the topic accurately.
• Use of computer visuals in architecture.
• Review the trends in modern furniture design.
• Ecology and architecture: integration of green technologies.
• Discuss the multiculturalism of contemporary urban architecture.
• The history of architecture in urban areas of the US: the study of New York.
• Modern city design case study.
• Research ways of using wood in modern architecture.
• Commercial architecture: aesthetics and usability.
• Evaluate the design of municipal buildings in the US.
• Creativity in postmodernist architecture.
• How do we integrate smart home technology into architecture?
• Small scale homes: a study of growing interest in small housing.
• Discuss the use of lighting in building design.
• Study innovations in structural design in the digital age.
• What are the implications of inclusive architecture?
• Sustainable architecture: recycling spaces and materials.
• Renewable energy in home design.
• Assess open concept homes for American families.
• Conduct a study of family homes design.
• Research architecture suitable for middle-class families.

Thesis Topics in English Literature & World Literature

Was your New Year’s Resolution to re-read the 100 most influential classical works? Then you might want to consider writing a thesis in advanced higher English. Check out these engaging prompts:

• In-depth stylistic analysis of The Trial by Franz Kafka . Explain what stylistic devices Kafka used in his story.
• The influence of The Hound of the Baskervilles on the development of modern detective stories. Prepare several comparisons of The Hound with modern detective stories to pinpoint its influence.
• The Lost Honor of Katharina Blum : women characters in Heinrich Böll’s fiction. Using the book mentioned in the topic, examine how the German writer depicted women in his prose.
• Analysis of the terrorism portrayal in modern journalism: The New York Times case study. Pick several articles related to terrorism published in NYT and describe in detail how it is portrayed (keywords, images, etc.).
• A formalist approach to Dostoevsky: analysis of The Brothers Karamazov . Provide the reader with an explanation of the formalist approach and use it to analyze the novel.
• The depiction of sexual violence in young adult literature. Pick several YA novels published in the 2010s for your research.
• The use of repetition in Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot . Analyze how repetition is used for emphasis and other effects in the play.
• Feminism and gender in Margaret Atwood’s Cats’ Eye . Review the book from a feminist point of view and discuss how gender issues are presented in the book.
• How does Phillip K. Dick use intertextuality in The Man in the High Castle ? Find as many references to other literary and historical sources as you can and elaborate how Dick uses them and for what aims.
• The influence of Steppenwolf on postmodern American literature: the contribution of Herman Hesse. Using Steppenwolf as the primary source, discuss what characteristics common for postmodern literature Hesse uses in this novel.
• How does racism manifest itself in classical literature?
• Discuss the oppression of women in The Handmaid’s Tale.
• Gender roles in The Miniaturist and A Doll’s House : a comparison.
• Moral ambiguity in David Harrower’s works.
• Literary techniques in the Perks of Being a Wallflower.
• The setting in The Murder in the Rue Morgue and its influence on the detective genre.
• Review the tropes first introduced in The Moonstone.
• Study the depictions of police’s work in Skinner’s Rule .
• Assess the influence of Victorian Gothic horror on popular culture.
• Social criticism in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
• Analyze cyberpunk elements in Gibson’s Neuromancer.
• Themes of social equality in modern literature.
• Research the views on Native American writers in Nature’s Poem.
• Critique of contemporary children’s literature .
• Gothic elements in Charlotte Bronte’s works.
• The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Dracula : a comparative analysis.
• Terror in The Picture of Dorian Gray .
• Examine the connection of mental health and society in J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye .
• Magical realism and romanticism in Perfume: The Story of a Murderer.
• How does the cut-up technique contribute to the narration in William S. Burroughs’ Naked Lunch?

Criminal Justice Thesis Topics

Are you a forensic science student who prefers research to actual police work? In that case, a dissertation in criminology is a great idea. This way, you can work on preventing crime from the comfort of your desk.

• Recidivism rates among underage Latino first-time offenders: a quantitative study. Research a group of first-time offenders of a particular age (e.g., 18 to 25 years old).
• A comparative analysis of the incidents of gun violence in the USA during the 2010s. Choose several prominent examples and compare them to each other.
• Troublesome statements: the role of witnesses in potentially false accusations. In this dissertation, you can write about the unreliability of statements, using documented examples.

• The patterns of drug trafficking in Germany’s largest cities: a case study of Berlin and Hamburg. Analyze the changes in these patterns in the 2010s.
• Money laundering and corruption in the United States in the 21st century. Using media reports, create dissertation research about corruption schemes.
• Mental health and self-perception of second-time sex offenders. Determine if their self-perception changes.
• School shootings in the USA: causes and risk factors. Using recent and historical data, analyze the cases of mass shootings.
• The influence of cyberbullying on suicide rates among Australian adolescents (13-17 years old). You can base your dissertation report on various research on cyberbullying published in Australian scholarly journals.
• Child abuse and its influence on serial killer’s perception of victims. Discuss interconnections between abuse and potential sadistic behavior.
• The history of forensic interviewing in the USA. Present research and practices that contributed to its development.
• Use of artificial intelligence for forensic investigations.
• Criminal behavior at a young age and its implications for the future.
• Drug use: pattern of recurring arrests among American youth.
• Incarcerated parents: the impact on the child’s perception of crime.
• Research the reforms of the US criminal justice system.
• Propose strategies for improving the juvenile detention system.
• Police officer’s abuse of power: analysis of reports.
• Race and criminal justice: the case of War on Drugs.
• What are the possible alternative forms of incarceration?
• A study of public perception of modern serial killers.
• Training of sniffer dogs.
• The implications of eyewitness testimony.
• Abuse in Hollywood: a case study of Harvey Weinstein.
• Bias against African Americans during investigations.
• A study of college violence.
• Legal implications of medical marijuana legalization .
• Ethics of criminal justice: the problem of confidentiality.
• Review the challenges linked with domestic violence investigations.
• Suggest ways of preventing crimes in schools.
• Gender bias during crime examinations.

Geography Thesis Topics

If you enjoy unveiling Earth’s secrets, this section is for you. Here you’ll find geography dissertation ideas ranging from studies of movement to regional phenomena.

• Species that became extinct in the 20th century: qualitative research. Address the human influence on various species.
• Current issues in the exploration of Arctic. Discuss difficulties and specifics of such explorations.
• A comparison of urban back gardens in the USA and the UK. You can compare their design and other features (for example, vegetation used for decoration).
• The causes and outcomes of floodings in the USA in the 2010s. Address climate change as one of the leading causes.
• Prevention of ecosystem changes with modern technology. Provide various examples of how technology is used to sustain ecosystems.
• Changes in travel destinations in the 2000s: a comparison of the USA and Canada. Demonstrate what changes in preferences were documented in these countries and show what destinations were especially popular.
• The perception of environmentally friendly technologies and their impact on the environment by citizens of large metropolitan areas: a case study of Miami. Explain how various projects based on environmentally friendly technologies are launched in Miami.
• A negative impact of global warming on weather conditions in Iceland. Discuss how tourism in Iceland is affected by these changes.
• The influence of industrialization on climate change. Address the causes of climate change, using industrialization and its consequences as a basis.
• Compare Greenfield and Brownfield land use for construction projects.
• Investigate the significance of red salmon for Kamchatka.
• The social impact of climate change : a study of migration patterns.
• The potential of community gardening in underprivileged neighborhoods.
• Study the link between the strengths of hurricanes and climate change.
• What can be done to stop gentrification in your community?
• Evaluate coastal tourism, its effect, and implications.
• The impact of reservoir locations on water quality.
• How did industrialization affect the development of Chicago?
• Study soil pollution levels in your community area.
• Conduct an analysis of air quality in your city.
• Eco-tourism, its history, and perspectives.
• Differences in soil chemistry across several locations.
• The impact of organic farming on water quality in your area.
• Compare the sustainability of organically vs. conventionally farmed tomatoes.
• Research air pollution levels and data on airborne illnesses in your area.
• What’s the relationship between rock climbing and cliff vegetation?
• Study the changes in soil fertility upon volcanic eruption.
• How does the Chernobyl disaster continue to affect the surrounding area?
• Determine the patterns of floods in a particular area of your choice.

Sociology Thesis Ideas

Sociology studies how humans live together. A dissertation is a great way to dive deeper into a particular subject. You can get as specific as your heart desires! Check out our sociology thesis topics:

• Single parent stigma and its influence on family’s quality of life and parent-child relationships. Present examples from recent research that illustrate how the dynamics of these relationships change over time due to stigma.
• Women empowerment in Saudi Arabia in 2000s: breakthroughs and challenges. Discuss how this empowerment affected legislation and women’s rights.
• Long-term alcohol addiction and self-perception in young adults. With the help of research, demonstrate whether self-perception of these adults transforms significantly due to their addiction.
• Adoption and its influence on parent-child relationships. Present and discuss challenges that such families face.
• Comparison of traditions related to family dinners in the USA and the UK. What specific differences are there and how can they be explained?
• Influence of the emo culture on suicide rates in high school students. Address the influence of such cultures on adolescents’ behavior.
• The rates of secularization in elderly individuals living in urban and rural areas. Compare the rates and explain why they are different.
• Influence of forced outing on transgender individuals and concomitant changes in their quality of life. Explain the effects of forced outing and why this impact is dangerous.
• Comparison of anti-nuclear movements in Germany and Japan in the 21st century. Explain in detail what differences and similarities are prominent.
• Performance rates of teenagers in schools in low-income neighborhoods: a case study of Boston schools. When writing your dissertation proposal, consider various factors (poverty, limited access to technology, etc.) that affect performance rates of these teenagers.
• Black Lives Matter movement’s immediate impact on racism.
• Research causes of minority bias in the US.
• Affirmative action and its impact on the perception of varied racial groups.
• The impact of religion on people’s attitudes towards race.
• Review the challenges of the US LGBT community.
• Bias towards transgender studies.
• Social activism against gender discrimination in the 21st century.
• The impact of social assistance in schools on a child’s future.
• Research the changes in education after WWII.
• Analyze scholarship policies in the US.
• The impact of student debt on youth’s perception of education in the US.
• Outcomes of public vs. private schools: a comparison.
• Research the preservation of culture in American immigrant families.
• Applying Marx’s conflict theory to social justice movements.
• Assess changing trends in social norms in a country of your choice.
• Attitudes towards prejudice among people of different social backgrounds.
• Comparison of women’s rights in Western and Middle Eastern countries.
• The impact of capitalism on one’s social values.
• How does capitalism benefit society across multiple post-soviet countries?
• Compare healthcare access in autocracies vs. democracies.

💡 Dissertation Topics for Ph.D. students

Below you’ll find a list of excellent dissertation ideas in different fields of study. They are more difficult than thesis topics and require more research. Jump to the section that interests you and find the topic that suits you best! But first:

What Makes a Good Ph.D. Topic?

Usually, universities would expect your dissertation to be original and relevant in the field of the research. Moreover, it would be worthwhile if it has the potential to make a change.

This checklist will help you see whether you’ve made the right choice. Your dissertation topic is good, if:

• You have an opportunity to research it fully.  You need to know that there is enough data and a theoretical basis. Do some prior research to understand if you will be able to answer all your dissertation questions.
• You can fill the gaps in the existing knowledge.  Your research matters if you can provide some new information that contributes to the field of your studies.
• Your dissertation title is catchy.  Try to make it worth the reader’s attention from the first glance.
• You can evaluate how much time you need.  It is vital to understand all the stages of your research and the challenges you might face to plan your work.
• You know the subject well.  You will need to explore your topic in-depth. It’s good to have some previous knowledge about it. Starting the research from the very basics will take more time and effort.
• You have enough resources to investigate it.  Both time and money matter in this case. You need to do high-quality research and meet your deadlines.

Dissertation Topics in Education

Learning is a lifelong experience, and the importance of schools cannot be overestimated. Research in this area is critical to improving education standards. Have a look at these topic ideas to get inspired:

• Gamification as tools for enhancing learning abilities: theory and practice. Many studies have been conducted on different learning approaches. For young learners, engagement is as critical as the outcome. Therefore, this work focuses on gamification and its effect on children’s improvisation and learning.
• Studying the connection between classroom quality and the learning outcome in kindergarten. Children are strongly affected by their environment, especially when it comes to learning. This dissertation topic example is all about looking into different classroom settings and their effect on kids’ learning outcomes.
• Evaluating the process of implementation of inclusive education in the US. Professionals argue that inclusive education carries multiple benefits for all students (not just those with limited abilities.) However, it is quite a challenging process to implement all the changes.
• Factors influencing the decision to transfer to the higher education abroad. In this work, you can focus on finding out the reasons for such a decision. Why do undergraduate students choose to leave their home country? What are the most important factors?
• Online education vs. traditional face-to-face lessons for adult learners: compare and contrast. Online courses have their own benefits. However, would adult learners prefer them to in-person classrooms? How does it affect their learning and motivation?
• How does working as a taxi driver and navigating change a person’s brain?
• To what extent can reality television be disempowering for students?
• The role of homework in the lives of immigrant adolescents.
• The impact of teachers’ shocking behaviors in fostering students’ creativity.
• The determinants of flossing behavior in college students .
• The classification of drinking styles in the college-age population.
• Integrating the computer into the curriculum: why you can’t simply plug it in.
• The preconditions for serious music-making avocation in computer science students.
• Adult graduate difficulties with learning new technologies.
• The effect of academic performance on the health of students.
• The impact of mathematic coaching on students’ self-esteem .
• The influence of internet on the emotional maturity of students.
• Academic achievements of students who decide to become teachers.
• Is it true that students are more likely to do homework given by good-looking professors?
• Informal learning in rural areas via social networks.
• Educational blogging for professors: the social networks of educationists.
• Does learning existentialism cause suicides?
• Is it possible to reduce summer learning loss without students’ consent?
• Can we reject classical math and do it at the same time? Yes, we can.
• What are major career prospects with a degree in Liberal Arts?
• Using electronic games in museums as an effective education tool.

Business Dissertation Topics

There are many things a business administrator should keep in mind. Finances, marketing, and development are just the tip of the iceberg. So, the choice of topics is practically endless. Check out this selection to narrow down the possibilities:

• How are business strategies adjusted to the globalization process? Small businesses’ perspective. Globalization means huge and profitable opportunities. To seize them, all businesses and companies should make some changes in their strategies. Investigate what would be the best action plan for them.
• Cultural changes and the effect of feedback in an international company: a case study. Choose a multinational company. Study the impact of feedback (both from the employees and customers) on its organizational culture changes. What reaction does it provoke in the company?
• Human resource management approaches in international non-profit organizations. In this study, look into the strategies HR managers apply in non-profit organizations. One of their main responsibilities is to monitor the performance of the employees. However, at the international level it becomes more difficult.
• Leadership and organizational culture in making decisions about business strategies. In this research, you study the influence of the organizational culture on leaders. In the case of trying to initiate changes in the business strategy, how is a leadership decision taken?
• The role of “foreign direct investment” in companies in developing countries: a case study of a large business. For this paper, pick a suitable company first. Aim for large companies in developing countries. Then conduct research and find out what strategies they have for foreign direct investments.
• COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on workplace management in small businesses . The COVID-19 pandemic caused many companies to readjust their HR policies. For instance, they allowed their staff to work from home. Research this phenomenon in your thesis.
• Social entrepreneurship for large companies. If you want to make the world a better place, social entrepreneurship is a suitable method. We usually associate it with small start-ups. But what about large companies? With this topic, you can research how the concept works for big firms.
• How innovation affects demand in technology-driven businesses. This MBA dissertation topic combines business studies and technology. Examine how companies create products for establishing markets.
• Management strategies in times of COVID-19: a case study. The pandemic has forced companies to use Zoom , Skype, and messaging instead of regular meetings. Review how executives can apply traditional management models in the digital space.
• The impact of burnout on employees. Interview staff members and determine how burnout affects performance. Include the name of a company or industry in your dissertation’s title.
• Tourism management in the Middle East.
• How do natural disasters impact the demand for essentials?
• Compare and contrast Asian and American leadership styles.
• How does fluctuation in the stock market impact business operations?
• The art of delegation: how to do it effectively and when to avoid it.
• How can one efficiently lead a company when unforeseen circumstances occur?
• What factors determine employees’ work satisfaction?
• Study the link between a company’s success and innovation.
• What can business managers do to bridge the gap between generations?
• Research the benefits of global and local brand management.
• What causes changes in Chinese business culture?
• Choose a small business and analyze its strategy.
• Organizational changes : what factors impact transformation?
• Internet banking : barriers to usage.
• Create a business plan that is focused on a specific issue.
• Conditions necessary for quality management in MNCs.
• The role of E-commerce for food retailers.
• Conduct a case study with the purpose to analyze one or several social phenomena.
• Workplace ethics in small businesses.
• The phenomenon of remote working and how it is affecting businesses.
• Comparison of Generation X and the Millennial Generation.
• Managing the Millennial Generation.
• Current trends in consumer behavior in relation to advertising.
• Analyze which countries margin financing is effective and why.
• Analyze the macroeconomic factors affecting exchange rates.
• An empirical analysis of the impact of organizational performance and leadership .

Law Dissertation Topics for Ph.D. Students

Legal science is not dull as one may think. It’s crucial to evaluate laws at any point in time. Do they fit the current norms? Does something or someone need more protection than before? If you want to garnish your legal education with a Ph.D., here are some topic suggestions:

• Trust law: the circumstances when fully secret and half-secret trusts are necessary. Find out what are the principles that dictate the enforcement of the trusts. There are specific circumstances that determine whether creating trusts would be adequate and relevant. Make sure to take them into consideration.
• Termination of employment in case of employees tested positive for HIV/AIDS. Your task would be to conduct research and see how HIV/AIDS employees are influenced in the workplace. The most common issues are discrimination and termination of employment.
• The influence of the Global War on Terrorism on international criminal law. When the US launched the campaign against terrorism in 2001, international criminal law faced some changes. You can study the most significant changes that have been made.
• The level of effectiveness of the US copyright law in relation to the rights of users. It’s an empirical research topic that would require collecting lots of data. Try to find some cases when the users were left cheated by copyright law. It would bring some diversity to the research and make it more interesting.
• Study the effect that the US immigration policy has on education right now. Educational institutions are also required to adjust to changes connected with immigration. Different requirements and different curriculums are implemented to fit their needs. You are about to look into this issue.
• Select a country and analyze its worker protection laws. Compare the rights and obligations of employees in two countries of your choice. What potential improvements can solidify employee rights?
• Protection of minorities, legal precedents. Minority rights are becoming more and more relevant. This topic allows you to discuss how laws can be changed to reflect it.
• Regulation of cryptocurrency. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies allow for anonymity. Besides, they are not regulated by any state. In your thesis, you can analyze cryptocurrency regulations.
• Fake news : legal responsibility. Review how the United States legal system approaches disinformation. Focus on false publications on news resources. Another possible topic is improvements to defamation laws.
• Freedom of expression : a case during a pandemic. This topic is about false information in times of COVID-19. Examine how a state can balance freedom of expression with the spread of false information. Focus on this disease and the fake news about it.
• Legal practices for preventing possible future pandemics.
• Research ways of online journalism protection.
• International law vs. the right to self-determination: comparative case studies of de facto states.
• Review the history of fiscal laws in America.
• Limits to freedom of expression in the US legal system.
• Enforcing regulations concerning domestic violence.
• Study criminal responsibility for drug possession in the US.
• Criminalization of violence against women.
• Review the legal framework for addressing foreign involvement in elections.
• What was the government response to the COVID-19 pandemic?
• Health standards for immigrant detention centers in the US.
• Research the loopholes in the US immigration laws.
• Birthright citizenship in the US: pros and cons.
• 1951 Refugee Convention: is it obsolete?
• Illegal immigrants and their rights in the US justice system.
• How criminal laws have been impacted around the world by the war on terror.
• Choose a country and analyze their policies on discrimination.
• Evaluate the protection given to minority shareholders as dictated by company law.
• Provide a critical analysis of the law of omissions liability.
• Investigate and analyze complaints filed in the criminal justice system.
• A critical analysis of the reform of homicide laws.
• The morality and impact of euthanasia and how Canada sets a precedent.
• A detailed analysis of gender and race profiling of suspects in the criminal justice system.
• Analyze the right to bear arms relative to the context in which the law was written into The Constitution.
• Create case studies that represent a review of criminal negligence related to the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007.

Psychology Dissertation Topics

The mysterious ways of the human mind offer many research opportunities. Psychology encompasses sub-fields such as behavior and cognition. Whatever your area of expertise, you’ll undoubtedly find something interesting in the list below.

• The current effect of the “price ending” method on the consumers’ behavior . Nowadays, everybody knows the most popular trick that shops pull to make customers buy the products. However, does understanding it make it easier to resist it? Is this psychological trap still working?
• Burnout at the executive positions in massive US corporations: is it possible to prevent? The phenomenon of burnout is the most common issue that employees face nowadays. But there are ways to detected it at an early stage. Could they be used to predict and prevent this problem?
• Mindfulness practices and their influence on students’ learning abilities at the top universities (e.g., Harvard). Mindfulness is proved to be extremely useful in overcoming stress and anxiety issues. However, does it affect the learning outcome of the students who study at the best universities in the world?
• The individual struggles with gender issues and their impact on global gender inequality. Everything always starts with a small thing. For this paper, study the relation between some individual cases and the global issue. How do personal struggles contribute to the worldwide movement for justice?
• The positive influence of irrational beliefs on mental well-being. In psychology, irrational beliefs are a set of values and opinions that people believe in despite rational evidence against them. However, what positive effect can they bring?
• Ways of raising awareness of mental health problems. Mental health has been discussed more openly in recent years. Review how this open discussion affects views on personal mental health. As another idea for a psychology dissertation topic, research a specific illness.
• Student burnout and ways to prevent it. Focus on the problems students face and what strategies can reduce their stress.
• Pandemic and mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic forced many people to be in isolation from social contacts. Review the potential effects of this practice on people’s well-being. Discuss possible strategies for supporting mental health during possible future pandemics.
• Weight, self-image, and mental health. A clinical psychology thesis can focus on the psychology behind excess weight. Discuss how weight affects a person’s perception of self. Assess implications for clinical psychologists who work with overweight patients.
• Social media vs. reality: normalizing real people. Review current efforts of social media accounts in normalizing body image. Explain how this can reverse the damage that edited photos have on mental health.
• How does gender bias affect mental health in America?
• What factors affect women’s self-esteem in the workplace?
• Specifics of transgender mental health.
• Research the effect of immigration on mental well-being.
• Study the psychology of racism and ways to combat it.
• What distinguishes the mental health of minorities in the US?
• Research the psychology of dissent in the Soviet Union.
• The connection between stress and overeating: latest developments.
• Assess the role of social support for losing weight.
• What’s the role of prejudice in politics?
• Assess the role of endurance in combating stress.
• Developing hardiness: strategies and exercises.
• What’s the effect of emotional resilience on mental health?
• Helping teenagers overcome stress via relaxation techniques.
• Look into the perception of anger and its effect on mental health.
• Understanding the function of the prefrontal cortex in terms of how it is connected to other parts of the brain.
• Understanding how the prefrontal cortex makes us human.
• How emotional and anxiety disorders are connected to social cognition that is impaired.
• Analyze the ability of an MRI to determine brain function.
• Analyze the relationship between emotional and episodic memory.
• A comparison of the plasticity of the child’s brain and the adult brain.
• Analyze the continued relevance of Piaget’s theory of cognitive development.
• An in-depth look at the social intuitionist model and how it relates to the emotion and reason involved in moral judgement.
• How the evolution of the human brain can be understood in terms of children cognitive development.
• A demonstration of the multi-dimensional nature of schizophrenia.
• How rational thinking and impulse contribute to decision-making.
• A systematic analysis and review of the psychology of religion.
• How exposure to nature affects happiness.

Nursing Dissertation Topics

A nurse’s work is hard. Unfortunately, they rarely get the credit they deserve. With a Ph.D., you could become an advocate on the problem. Or you could concentrate on optimizing their work environments.

• Exercise, changes in lifestyle , and self-tracking for diabetes prevention and management. Center your research on different lifestyle changes (exercise, reduced smoking and drinking) and explain how and why it prevents diabetes.
• Influence of stigma related to HIV/AIDS on representatives of ethnic minorities: a case study of Native Americans. Using research, provide compelling evidence of how Native Americans are stigmatized and discriminated against.
• Chronic illness management at home: recommended evidence-based practices. Using current nursing and other professional research, discuss how adults and seniors manage chronic and autoimmune diseases.
• Depression and stress and their relation to preterm births in first-time mothers. Collect several articles about the issue and using their conclusions show how depression causes preterm births.
• Burnout in nurses: factors that cause it and practical solutions for prevention. Present outcomes of burnout (decreased performance and concentration, subpar workplace environment) and illustrate how it affects hospitals on a more significant scale.
• Public health: community-based measures to prevent morbid obesity. In this research, you can list various methods that include exercise and education and explain in detail how they prevent the spread of obesity.
• Risk factors and injury rates in psychiatric nursing. Present statistics on different types of injuries in psychiatric institutions.
• Cultural diversity and inclusion in nursing education. When researching diversity, make sure you are using examples of different minority groups’ perception of education.
• Euthanasia legislation in the USA: ethical issues and debates. Provide a thoughtful discussion of ethical and legal issues surrounding euthanasia.
• Organizational climate and its influence on perceived patient safety. Your study should focus on the importance of positive relationships between staff members, and its influence on the prevention of medical errors.
• Dietary practices and their influence on the quality of life in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. SLE is a complex disease that requires a multidisciplinary approach. Describe nutritional research approaches to SLE.
• Fluoride application training in dental nursing.
• Describe the specifics of nursing care for patients with diabetes.
• Assess gender disparity in nursing research.
• Study nurse burnout prevalence in neonatal care in your community.
• Nursing staff advising DASH diet: effects on patients’ blood pressure.
• What are the challenges of asthma management for nurses?
• Nursing for autistic patients: the best strategies.
• Racial differences in nursing care: a case study.
• Evaluate nurses’ role in pain management for patients with dementia.
• Study the connection between nursing staff turnover and burnout.
• How is the role of a nurse changing in the modern healthcare system?
• Review nursing practices for managing elderly patients.
• A holistic approach to obesity management in nursing.
• Describe the specifics of nursing in rural areas.
• Physical activity and mental health: a nursing case study.
• Discuss nursing pain relief strategies for general care.
• Determine the ethical implications of nursing malpractice.
• Nurses consultations for spinal cord injuries.
• Nursing in an urban setting: challenges and prospects.
• What are the specifics of pain management in obstetrical nursing?

Marketing Dissertation Topics

Good marketing is what made you buy that product you didn’t know you needed. Marketing needs plenty of scientific research for it to be successful. You can contribute to this effort with one of the following topic ideas:

• Compare and contrast the effectiveness of traditional and digital marketing in the last five years. Marketing moves towards digital campaigns more and more every year. Though, traditional marketing still exists, of course. Your task is to compare every aspect of these two types in the span of the previous five years.
• The specifics of the relationship marketing and its influence on the loyalty rates among customers: a case study of fast-food chains. Take a few fast-food chains to conduct this research. Then analyze their relationship marketing strategies. There should be a correlation between the methods they use and the loyalty of their customers.
• Direct marketing and artificial intelligence: how do companies use it? The industry of marketing couldn’t have missed the opportunity to use the latest technologies for their benefit. Artificial intelligence helps some companies gain a competitive advantage. Find out what those benefits are.
• Collectivism and individualism : how does culture influence supermarkets? There are some apparent differences in cultures when it comes to shopping. Each shop owner has to implement a specific marketing strategy for targeting the customers. Work on aspects that make those strategies successful in different cultures.
• The strategies that make personalized products sell effectively. Everybody loves customized products, but it seems like not everybody is willing to share their data to get it. Therefore, businesses are forced to work it out. This research looks into marketing tools and methods they use to sell personalized products.
• Influence of online shopping apps on impulsive buying behavior . Using prominent examples such as Amazon and eBay, elaborate how apps affect customer’s decision to purchase an item through recommendations.
• Product design and its impact on consumer’s purchase decision. When preparing this thesis topic, consider using examples of large corporations such as Apple or IKEA to prove your point.
• Customer loyalty : the importance of satisfaction and loyalty programs. Conduct research using available surveys on satisfaction and draw conclusions from these statistics. 
• Ethnic differences and their impact on brand perception. This research can review the types of products that target White or Black Americans specifically.
• Preferences for green products: analysis of the income’s influence on consumer decisions. Compare what households are more likely to prefer green products.
• Shopping habits of Muslim consumers in the USA: qualitative research. Here, you will need to do research by engaging Muslim Americans in your study; you can use interviews or surveys for this topic.
• Social media and its impact on the promotion of small business. Make sure your reader understands how social media can promote or negatively present small business through customers’ comments.
• Does globalization make preferences of customers from different socioeconomic backgrounds similar? Interview people from lower, middle, and upper class and discuss the preferences of American households.
• Social media usage by international companies: a case study of Electronic Arts. Study the influence of customers’ reviews and opinions on EA’s sales.
• Consumers’ perception of transaction safety in online shopping applications. Discuss how consumers learn to differentiate between reliable and unreliable apps for payments .
• Marketing high tech products: a case study.
• Study changing marketing techniques during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The future of big data uses in marketing.
• Conduct a comparative analysis of offline vs. online advertising .
• Explore the relationship between marketing strategies and sales.
• Holiday marketing strategies in the 21st century.
• Is marketing tailed towards model devices effective?
• Study the rise of influencer marketing.
• Review the newest trends in digital advertising.
• Brand management in 2020: an analysis.
• Assess the effect of advertising on consumer behavior.
• Targeted ads: are they efficient?
• How did marketing change during the COVID-19 pandemic?
• Assess brand management’s contribution to consumer loyalty.
• Impact of social media marketing on brand perception.
• Google Analytics insights for marketing campaigns.
• Marketing for minority populations.
• Youtube marketing: the effectiveness of videos for brand promotion.
• How does partnering with influencers impact brand perception?
• Social influencer marketing for SMEs.

History Dissertation Topics

History is written not only by the victors but also by history students. Your dissertation can shine a light on understudied cultures. Or perhaps you want to focus on how a specific event impacted the world. Find inspiration among the following dissertation questions and ideas:

• The historical context of the creation of Guernica by Pablo Picasso . War wasn’t the only inspiration for Pablo Picasso during the process of making Guernica . In this paper, you would look into the environment of the artist and try to identify what else brought him to the creation of this masterpiece.
• Bismarck and radical nationalism: what influenced the political state? For this research, you would study the underlying reasons for German Nazism before the beginning of World War II. What factors gave it a start when Otto von Bismarck was in charge?
• The rise of Bollywood: historical context. This paper focuses on the success of Indian Bollywood movies in the 1930s. You would need to look into the events that made those movies famous in the whole world. Don’t forget to mention the social views of Bollywood movies.
• The influence of secrecy in the technology intervention during World War II. You would study the role that the US Patent and Trademark Office played in the development of special war technology . Secrecy helped to keep it away from the public and enemies. How did it influence the war?
• Italian prisons in the 19th century: how were they managed after Unification? This paper would require you to study documentation on the management system prison used in Italy at the beginning of the 19th century. You should try to find some practices that might have been socially harmful.
• Gender perceptions in the Middle Age. When preparing the dissertation, use both historical and literary sources to show how gender was presented.
• Secularization in the American South during the post-war period. Provide a detailed discussion of secular societies forming in the South after the 1940s.
• Representation of Jewish history in contemporary art: a case study of Art Spiegelman’s Maus . Using the comic book as the primary basis, explain how Jewish culture and history are presented there.

• The history of medieval warfare and its influence on Modern Era warfare . When constructing this thesis, make sure you are using both historical and current research to provide details.
• American-British relations during the Cold War Era . Explain how the Cold War Era changes these relations and what has affected it the most.
• Germany’s foreign relations during the 1980s. Present a detailed overview of different foreign relations (e.g., with the USA, the USSR, the UK) Germany had during this period.
• The financial crisis in the USA in 2007-2009. Using research and media sources, explain to the reader how the crisis is still affecting the USA.
• The development of Austrian identity after World War II. In this case, you can use both historical evidence and Austrian literature that provides personal opinions of writers and artists on the issue.
• The impact of the Great Depression on the American involvement in the World War II. To show your understanding of historical processes, demonstrate how the Great Depression affected the USA’s perception of WWII.
• How I stopped worrying and learned to love the bomb: the development of nuclear warfare in the 20th century. Discuss the development of nuclear warfare in the USA and the USSR.
• What was the role of China in the Cold War?
• How did the Spanish Flu affect the pandemics that followed it?
• Determine the influence of the stock market crash in 1929 on the World Wars.
• First Battle of Marne’s impact on the outcomes of WWI.
• Tool usage and creation: Aztecs vs. Mayas.
• How did the enlightenment philosophy impact the development of the natural sciences?
• The effects of Christianization in sub-Saharan Africa.
• Assess the role of slavery in the US civil rights movement.
• Study the history of LGBT rights establishment in the US.
• What are the origins of slavery in Africa?
• The Moon Landing and its impact on space exploration.
• Explore the role of the Bible in Jewish history.
• The US’ involvement in WWII.
• The aftermath of WWII: major historical events.
• Research the link between the Mexican-American War and the Gold Rush.
• Cold War insights: lessons from the Suez Crisis.
• Explore the role of democratization in the Soviet Union collapse.
• Global cooperation in early modern Europe.
• Study the legacy of the arms race.
• How did the First Ladies influence life in the 20th century America?

Dissertation Topics in Management

Companies and employees alike benefit from well-thought-out management strategies. So, a thesis in management has the potential to improve work environments even further. Kickstart your research by choosing one of the following topics:

• Ecotourism in Canada: issues and trends in small business. Explain issues that arise in ecotourism with climate change.
• Management ethics: how social media affects employees’ privacy and organizational climate. Present examples of negative and positive influence.
• Leadership styles: a comparison of democratic and autocratic leadership. Discuss what leadership style should be chosen to rule various companies, depending on their business plan.
• Political risk and its influence on emergency management. Explain how political crises affect and shape emergency management.
• Cultural diversity and its impact on employees’ satisfaction and commitment. Show what advantages and disadvantages there are in cultural diversity.
• Economic growth and unemployment rates in Australia during the 1990s: a historical perspective. Explain the causes of economic growth and unemployment.
• Challenges in human resources management working with millennials: qualitative research. Discuss what particular challenges HR managers face and how they can be addressed.
• The significance of organizational routines in international corporations: a case study of Google. Conduct research on the importance of routine and its impact on performance.
• Computer skills and management: the effectiveness of computerized management information system in rural areas. Describe how digital management can be effectively applied in companies working in rural areas.
• The history of digital rights management in the USA. Present the changes in the field during the 1990s-2010s.
• Analyze the best leadership styles for SMEs.
• Examine the changes entrepreneurship underwent in the past decades.
• How do leadership styles relate to work satisfaction?
• Overview of business negotiation methods using technology.
• Ways of integrating corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices.
• Discuss the specifics of airline companies’ management.
• Choose a theory of motivation in the workplace and make a case study on it.
• Study change management in SMEs in times of a crisis.
• Managing diverse workforce: a qualitative analysis.
• Use of employee voice in US companies.
• Research the relationship between the organization’s goals and a manager’s behavior.
• What are the best current practices in public administration?
• Applying strategic human capital principles in practice.
• The study of female CEOs in a country of your choice.
• Employees’ perception of change management : a quantitative analysis.
• A study of employees’ resistance to change.
• What’s the correlation between a CEO’s leadership traits and employee motivation ?
• Workplace risk management : a study of psychosocial hazards.
• Conduct a quantitative study of the gender pay gap for CEOs.
• Research the relationship between management style and employee productivity .

Qualitative Dissertation: Ideas for Proposals

If you want your thesis to be more practical, you’ve come to the right section. Common approaches for qualitative dissertations include researching case studies, surveys, or ethnographies. Because of this, fieldwork will be an integral part of your doctorate journey.

• A comparison of teaching techniques that targeted children with autism in the 20th and 21st centuries. Provide a detailed overview of techniques and explain how research affected them.
• The development of cognitive-behavioral therapy and its effectiveness in patients with eating disorders. Present the history of CBT and use recent research to demonstrate its effectiveness.
• Ageism and sexism in international organizations of the fashion industry. Describe how the fashion industry defines what it means to be “young and beautiful.”
• Addressing sexual harassment at the workplace : the influence of organizational policies on targets’ decision to file a complaint. Explain what policies can support the target and what can prevent such decision.
• Strategies to eliminate bias in self-evaluation reports of employees. Using research in HRM, outline the best strategies that are currently used to avoid bias.
• Post-cancer therapy: issues and trends. Present and discuss various trends, the research behind them, and the effectiveness of different types of therapy.
• A family history of abuse and its influence on drug use in adults. Explain how abuse can provoke addiction in the future.
• The importance of trusting doctor-patient relationships on patient’s medication adherence and management of a healthy lifestyle. Describe how such relationships negatively or positively affect a patient’s decision to take medicine as prescribed.
• Barriers to the acquisition of social support among young men and women veterans in the USA. Discuss mental and physical disorders as major barriers.
• Single mothers’ perceptions of breastfeeding in public places: qualitative research. Conduct interviews to find out their opinion.
• The impact of online learning on student’s academic performance.
• A study of the youths’ perception of learning smartphone applications.
• Research the issue of gender bias in college education.
• Student’s perception of the mental health support and impact on campus.
• Perceptions of charter school education in the 21 st century.
• Discuss homeschooling and its effect on a child’s socialization.
• What’s the impact of cyberbullying on teenagers’ mental health?
• How inmates perceive alternative forms of incarceration.
• Gun violence from the perspective of victims.
• Research bias towards video games as an art form.
• In what ways are minorities disadvantaged in America?
• Evaluate cooking as a therapeutic exercise.
• Assess the link between a principal’s leadership style and the school’s rating.
• The effect of online counseling on patients’ mental health.
• Perception of mental health stigma among students.
• How does gig economy re-define work?
• The implications of freelancing in the 2020s.
• Opinions about a 6-day work week in your community.
• Assess the process of adaptation to working from home.
• Conduct a research study of views on the BLM movement outside the US.

Quantitative Dissertation Proposal Topics

Some scholars just love working with data. Are you one of them? Then you’ll probably enjoy quantitative research. If you’re into finding patterns and making predictions, here are some enticing topics:

• A study of a major city’s livability index. Choose a city and assess whether it’s well-designed or not.
• A quantitative study of biofilms in technology. Discuss methods of using biofilms in technology. Include a list of recent advances and new tools.
• A quantitative study of teachers’ perception of online learning. This topic prompts you to use an evaluation scale.
• An assessment of a link between product reviews and intention to purchase. Study the effect online reviews have on potential customers.
• Immigration and its connection to crime statistics. Analyze data on immigration to the US and the number of violent crimes. Determine the relationship between the two phenomena.
• The relationship between obesity and occupation. Assess the BMIs of participants of different professions. Then, test the results for a correlation and discuss its implications.
• A relationship between nurses’ knowledge of diabetes management and patient satisfaction. Assess the nurses’ knowledge about diabetes and compare the results with patient satisfaction scores. Thus, you can determine if expertise translates into better care.
• A study of the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on SMEs financial operations. With this qualitative dissertation proposal in business and management, choose a small company. Analyze its financial data pre- and post-pandemic. Include a discussion of financial management during pandemics.
• A study of millennials’ pet ownership. Determine the percentage of millennials who have pets. Compare these patterns with previous generations.
• Economic growth and urbanization. Compare the empirical data about the state of economics and the number of people living in cities.
• Determine how urbanization affects bacterial community compositions.
• The economic impact of immigration on SMEs.
• Study the rates of crimes in the US in relation to nonviolent crimes.
• How do various teaching styles affect learning?
• Compare overconfidence in CEOs of SMEs and corporations.
• How does inclusive language influence social behavior?
• Assess consumers’ satisfaction with online banking in your area.
• Evaluate crude oil price prediction methods.
• Is there a link between smartphone use and mental illness?
• Correlation between eyewitness identification and memory.
• What are the attitudes towards AI development among women?
• Determine the rates of cybercrimes since the 1990s.
• A study of the police brutality cases across the US in the last decade.
• Correlation between education level and employment.
• The presence of sleep disorders in mental illnesses.
• Assess the attitudes towards medical care in the US.
• Determine the correlation between eating disorders and physical illness.
• Study the rates of cyberbullying among minority students.
• How various religious groups influence politics : a game-theoretical approach.
• Does regular exercise decrease symptoms of depression in adults?

Dissertation Topics in Educational Leadership

Educational leadership is a science focused on helping students to achieve their academic goals. It includes the motivation of staff and learners, improvement of educational programs, and creation of a healthy, productive environment in institutions. Want to dedicate your research to it? Take a look at these topic samples:

• Fatigue among American medical students. Medical students often need to memorize and analyze big portions of information. That is why many of them don’t sleep enough, get tired quickly, and find it hard to concentrate. What can be done about it?
• How did the COVID-19 pandemic and distance learning affect students’ motivation? Online education has multiple benefits and drawbacks. Some students might find it easier to get access to various textbooks online. Others want to return to campus. What is their motivation?
• Creating better learning conditions on campus: the challenges in 2022. With the increasing speed of technological progress, it is hard to catch up with the latest innovations. Explore them in your dissertation. For instance, you can focus on facilities for students with special needs.
• How can we enhance discipline among first-year students on campus? For some younger students, it is hard to get used to living on their own. They need to accept new responsibilities, find time to take care of themselves, and organize their lives. How can we help them?
• Development of soft skills among undergraduate students. For future employers, soft skills are as important as hard skills. That is why colleges need to pay attention to soft skills such as time management, communication, and creativity.
• The efficiency of workshops for enhancing students’ creativity.
• Do nutrition habits influence the studying process?
• The importance of mental health care in high school.
• What leadership styles are the most efficient in college communities?
• Does the implementation of early childhood education lead to further academic success?
• What is the role of school counseling among teenagers?
• What psychological factors make students drop out of college?
• Developing leadership qualities among MBA students.
• How to help college athletes to cope with psychological and physical pressure.
• Ways of reducing anxiety levels among criminology students.
• Helping students to choose their majors and find a career path.
• How to enhance communication between higher education administration and students?
• Motivating students to succeed after graduation .
• Why do we need psychology classes in high school?
• How can we prevent the bullying of Latin American students in middle and high school?

✅ How to Choose a Thesis Topic: Main Steps

In case you have no idea where to start from, here is a quick guideline on how to choose a Ph.D. thesis topic:

We hope this article helped you to choose a suitable topic for your dissertation. We wish you good luck with your research!

Learn more on this topic:

• Dissertation Critique: Examples, How-to Guide
• The Ultimate Guide to Writing an Outstanding Dissertation
• How to Write an Abstract: Brief Steps and Structure Example

🔗 References

• Dissertation Topics 1961-Present: Rudgers University
• Completed Thesis and Dissertation Topics: University of Florida
• Current Legal Topics: Library of Congress
• The Right Dissertation Topic: Academics.com
• Days and Nights at the Museum…there’s a Dissertation for that!: Proquest.com
• Dissertation Titles: University of Michigan
• How to Pick a Master’s Thesis Topic: Medium.com
• How to Come Up With a Thesis Topic: Gradschools.com
• How to Choose Your Thesis Topic: Central European University
• How Do I Choose a Thesis Topic?: Grad School Hub
• Senior Thesis Topics: Hamilton College
• Arizona Research Topics: Arizona State Library
• Dissertation Proposal: Bartleby.com
• Dissertation Guide Essay
• How to Start Your Dissertation: 10 Top Tips: Studential.com
• How to Write a Dissertation or Bedtime Reading for People Who do not Have Time to Sleep: Purdue University
• A Step-By-Step Guide to Writing a Ph.D. Dissertation: ThoughtCo
• Dissertations Guide from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Developing a Thesis Statement: University of Wisconsin Madison
• Thesis/Dissertation Writing and Editing, Formatting, and Defending: Massey University
• Business Management Research Topics: Top Universities
• Law Topics: Law.com
• Psychology Topics: APA
• Marketing Topics: Marketing Profs
• Topics: History.com
• Computer Science: Encyclopedia Britannica
• Humanities: Research Topics Ideas: University of Michigan-Flint
• Art Topics: Art UK
• Topics: American Association for the Advancement of Science
• Nurses Topics: Medscape
• Architecture: Research Topics: University of Washington
• Topics in Geography: Research Gate
• New Topics in Sociology: University of Toronto
• Business Management Topics: The University of Maine
• Qualitative Case Study: Science.gov
• All Topics: Science News
• Criminology: Science Direct
• Topics in Literature: Sheridan College: Libguides
• Advanced Computer Science Topics: The University of Texas at Austin
• Application of Computer Techniques in Medicine: NIH
• Important Leadership and Management Topics: WHO
• Quantitative Research: University of Southern California
• Action Research: Brown University
• 10 Traits of Successful School Leaders: University of San Diego
• HIST 280 Topics: Texas A&M University
• The Relationship Between Burnout, Depression, and Anxiety: Frontiers In
• College of Nursing: University of Missouri–St. Louis
• All Topics: Educause
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Educational resources and simple solutions for your research journey

How to Choose a PhD Research Topic

For most doctoral aspirants, starting on their PhD journey can be both exciting and challenging at the same time. It often begins with having to make a critical decision – choosing a research topic. A well-considered and relevant PhD research topic is crucial because it significantly impacts the overall success and quality of your Ph.D. research. While it may be perfectly normal for your topic to evolve as you progress in your research and make discoveries, the significance of the right PhD thesis topic cannot be overstated.  

The path to earning a PhD often lasts several years. To maintain the motivation and unwavering commitment throughout this journey, you must have a genuine interest in the subject matter you choose to explore. Your enthusiasm can be a driving force, leading you to overcome obstacles and persist in your academic pursuits.  

Let’s explore some methods to help you navigate the process of PhD topic selection, from brainstorming to finalizing your proposal.¹²³

• Focus on your field of study –  It is always a good idea to consider your past research experiences and what questions or problems intrigue you. Remember, while the subject of your PhD should definitely interest you, it should also contribute to the existing body of knowledge in your field. Deeply engaging with subjects that genuinely captivate you can lead to both academic excellence and personal fulfillment. Therefore, take time to evaluate trending PhD topics carefully – this can also help you make your choice. 
• Review relevant academic literature –  Immerse yourself in the literature of your field. Conduct thorough research to identify gaps, controversies, or unexplored avenues in current research. The existing body of knowledge can provide invaluable insights into potential research areas. 
• Assess available resources –  It is   critical to   assess the feasibility of your chosen topic. Consider the resources, data, and tools required to conduct your research. Ensure that you have access to the necessary resources and that your chosen PhD thesis topic aligns with your academic and financial capabilities. 
• Seek guidance from trusted advisors –  Consulting with experienced mentors and advisors is essential. They can provide guidance, suggest refinements to your topic, and help you avoid potential pitfalls. Their insights can be invaluable in shaping your research direction. 

Table of Contents

Formulating a Focused Research Question  

After PhD topic selection, the next step is to refine it into a straightforward research question. Your research question should be specific, relevant, and well-defined. It should be detailed enough to guide your research and provide clear direction while also leaving room for exploration and analysis. Consider the significance of your question – why is it important, and what contributions can your research make to the field?  

Creating a Research Proposal  

Once you have a well-defined research question, you will need to create a research proposal. This document is a blueprint for your entire research efforts. In the research proposal, you will outline the precise scope of your study, the objectives you aim to achieve, the methodology you intend to employ, and the anticipated outcomes of your research.  

Your research proposal typically goes through a thorough review and approval process involving critical evaluation and feedback from your academic advisors. This scrutiny ensures that your research is not only academically sound but also aligns with the standards and expectations of your academic institution. 

The approval of your research proposal marks the culmination of your efforts to refine your PhD research topic. This process finalizes your research topic and sets the stage for the beginning of your PhD journey. 

Evolution of Your PhD Research Topic  

It’s important to remember that choosing a PhD thesis topic can be daunting, and it’s okay for your topic to evolve as you progress through your doctoral studies. New findings and interesting discoveries may lead you in unexpected directions. This adaptability is a natural part of the PhD journey. 4

Your Ph.D. dissertation serves a dual purpose: enhancing your understanding of your field and making valuable contributions to it. While it doesn’t need to be groundbreaking, it must demonstrate originality and your research and argumentation skills. In essence, a Ph.D. program aims to identify scholars capable of making noteworthy contributions to their fields. Thus, your dissertation is a critical milestone in your academic career, and it all begins with the careful selection of your PhD research topic.5 

References:  

• How to Choose a Dissertation Topic For Your Doctoral Degree. Walden University website.  https://www.waldenu.edu/online-doctoral-programs/resource/how-to-choose-a-dissertation-topic-for-your-doctoral-degree  
• How to Choose a PhD Topic. Doctoral Journey, Grand Canyon University website; August 2020.  https://www.gcu.edu/blog/doctoral-journey/how-choose-phd-topic  
• How do you select a research topic for your dissertation or thesis? LinkedIn Higher Education article, November 2023.  https://www.linkedin.com/advice/1/how-do-you-select-research-topic-your-dissertation  
• How to decide on a PhD topic. The University of Queensland website, April 2022.  https://study.uq.edu.au/stories/how-to-decide-phd-topic  
• John Komlos, John Goldsmith. How does one choose a dissertation topic? IIT Delhi.  https://web.iitd.ac.in/~mamidala/HTMLobj-155/How_to_choose_a_PhD_topic.htm  

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• How to Choose a PhD Research Topic
• Finding a PhD

Introduction

Whilst there are plenty of resources available to help prospective PhD students find doctoral programmes, deciding on a research topic is a process students often find more difficult.

Some advertised PhD programmes have predefined titles, so the exact topic is decided already. Generally, these programmes exist mainly in STEM, though other fields also have them. Funded projects are more likely to have defined titles, and structured aims and objectives.

Self funded projects, and those in fields such as arts and humanities, are less likely to have defined titles. The flexibility of topic selection means more scope exists for applicants to propose research ideas and suit the topic of research to their interests.

A middle ground also exists where Universities advertise funded PhD programmes in subjects without a defined scope, for example: “PhD Studentship in Biomechanics”. The applicant can then liaise with the project supervisor to choose a particular title such as “A study of fatigue and impact resistance of biodegradable knee implants”.

If a predefined programme is not right for you, then you need to propose your own research topic. There are several factors to consider when choosing a good research topic, which will be outlined in this article.

How to Choose a Research Topic

Our first piece of advice is to PhD candidates is to stop thinking about ‘finding’ a research topic, as it is unlikely that you will. Instead, think about developing a research topic (from research and conversations with advisors).

Consider several ideas and critically appraise them:

• You must be able to explain to others why your chosen topic is worth studying.
• You must be genuinely interested in the subject area.
• You must be competent and equipped to answer the research question.
• You must set achievable and measurable aims and objectives.
• You need to be able to achieve your objectives within a given timeframe.
• Your research question must be original and contribute to the field of study.

We have outlined the key considerations you should use when developing possible topics. We explore these below:

Focus on your interests and career aspirations

It is important to choose a topic of research that you are genuinely interested in. The decision you make will shape the rest of your career. Remember, a full-time programme lasts 3-4 years, and there will be unforeseen challenges during this time. If you are not passionate about the study, you will struggle to find motivation during these difficult periods.

You should also look to your academic and professional background. If there are any modules you undertook as part of your Undergraduate/Master degree that you particularly enjoyed or excelled in? These could form part of your PhD research topic. Similarly, if you have professional work experience, this could lead to you asking questions which can only be answered through research.

When deciding on a PhD research topic you should always consider your long-term career aspirations. For example, as a physicist, if you wish to become an astrophysicist, a research project studying black holes would be more relevant to you than a research project studying nuclear fission.

Read dissertations and published journals

Reading dissertations and published journals is a great way to identify potential PhD topics. When reviewing existing research ask yourself:

• What has been done and what do existing results show?
• What did previous projects involve (e.g. lab-work or fieldwork)?
• How often are papers published in the field?
• Are your research ideas original?
• Is there value in your research question?
• Could I expand on or put my own spin on this research?

Reading dissertations will also give you an insight into the practical aspects of doctoral study, such as what methodology the author used, how much data analysis was required and how was information presented.

You can also think of this process as a miniature literature review . You are searching for gaps in knowledge and developing a PhD project to address them. Focus on recent publications (e.g. in the last five years). In particular, the literature review of recent publications will give an excellent summary of the state of existing knowledge, and what research questions remain unanswered.

If you have the opportunity to attend an academic conference, go for it! This is often an excellent way to find out current theories in the industry and the research direction. This knowledge could reveal a possible research idea or topic for further study.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

Discuss research topic ideas with a PhD supervisor

Discuss your research topic ideas with a supervisor. This could be your current undergraduate/masters supervisor, or potential supervisors of advertised PhD programmes at different institutions. Come to these meetings prepared with initial PhD topic ideas, and your findings from reading published journals. PhD supervisors will be more receptive to your ideas if you can demonstrate you have thought about them and are committed to your research.

You should discuss your research interests, what you have found through reading publications, and what you are proposing to research. Supervisors who have expertise in your chosen field will have insight into the gaps in knowledge that exist, what is being done to address them, and if there is any overlap between your proposed research ideas and ongoing research projects.

Talking to an expert in the field can shape your research topic to something more tangible, which has clear aims and objectives. It can also find potential shortfalls of your PhD ideas.

It is important to remember, however, that although it is good to develop your research topic based on feedback, you should not let the supervisor decide a topic for you. An interesting topic for a supervisor may not be interesting to you, and a supervisor is more likely to advise on a topic title which lends itself to a career in academia.

Another tip is to talk to a PhD student or researcher who is involved in a similar research project. Alternatively, you can usually find a relevant research group within your University to talk to. They can explain in more detail their experiences and suggest what your PhD programme could involve with respect to daily routines and challenges.

Look at advertised PhD Programmes

Use our Search tool , or look on University PhD listing pages to identify advertised PhD programmes for ideas.

• What kind of PhD research topics are available?
• Are these similar to your ideas?
• Are you interested in any of these topics?
• What do these programmes entail?

The popularity of similar PhD programmes to your proposed topic is a good indicator that universities see value in the research area. The final bullet point is perhaps the most valuable takeaway from looking at advertised listings. Review what similar programmes involve, and whether this is something you would like to do. If so, a similar research topic would allow you to do this.

Writing a Research Proposal

As part of the PhD application process , you may be asked to summarise your proposed research topic in a research proposal. This is a document which summarises your intended research and will include the title of your proposed project, an Abstract, Background and Rationale, Research Aims and Objectives, Research Methodology, Timetable, and a Bibliography. If you are required to submit this document then read our guidance on how to write a research proposal for your PhD application.

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PhD Topic Requirements

Most university guidelines highlight a number of elements shared by all strong PhD topics including:

While some of these elements may seem ambiguous at first, they reflect one central idea, namely the need to create an original piece of work expanding our knowledge of a certain major problem that is relevant for many practitioners. Here are some examples of weak and strong PhD topics:

Wrong: Mass shootings in the US: What can be done to improve the situation

Right: Cultural theory of risk and the gun control debate in the US: The implications of Stanford University MSA Data Project.

Wrong: Homelessness problems in developing countries: The role of government regulations.

Right: The influence of subsidised housing availability on social stratification: A comparison of two UK regions.

Finding such topics may be a challenging task, which is why we would suggest looking for several topics rather than a single topic.

Singular vs Plural

Many guidelines on finding your perfect PhD topic imply that you should be looking for ‘a perfect topic’ rather than ‘several high-quality PhD topics’. This misunderstanding may be extremely costly for you, which is why our writing experts usually offer our clients multiple options right away. Here are some practical benefits of this approach:

• The search for several viable PhD topics does not take much more time than finding a single suitable one.
• Your further analysis of the subject area may reveal greater usefulness of some topics due to the identified research gaps.
• The evaluation of respondent availability and accessibility can make some options more effective than other ones.
• Discussions with prospective universities and supervisors may lead to their readiness to only accept certain topics.
• A list of options grants you sufficient flexibility to proceed with your PhD project no matter what.

Putting it simply, multiple topics allow you to be certain that you always have some viable paths to follow even if you encounter some methodological limitations, competition in some targeted areas or unique supervisor preferences. As discussed in one of the following sections, some universities may offer funding for a number of programmes they deem interesting, which may also convince you to prioritise these areas. Try to find 3-5 suitable PhD topics and work on their refinement using the instruments below. This will ensure that even the worst-case scenario will leave you with some backup options rather than the need to restart your search from scratch.

Finding Inspiration

Many students make the mistake of relying on their own inspiration and knowledge when selecting their proposed PhD topic. This approach seems reasonable at first glance but it has had a highly detrimental effect on the quality of many academic projects according to our experience. The main problem here is the fact that your future thesis has to make a substantial contribution to the existing body of knowledge, close some real research gaps, and create practical value for multiple stakeholders. The problem is, you cannot find your unique niche and achieve all of these objectives without extensive prior research. If you are wondering how to come up with a good phd topic, here is a checklist of activities that may help you find an inspiring topic in your area of interest:

We advise our clients to always ‘start with inspiration’ before listening to the input of their academic advisors. The idea is simple:

While you may choose to slightly adjust your focus down the road to make your project more manageable, there is no sense in pursuing a PhD topic that does not raise your interest. Keep in mind that your research should ideally be intertwined with your career aspirations and your professional development, which is why we always advise spending more time on finding the areas that are appealing to you from these standpoints. Many supervisors are also expecting you to come up with interesting ideas on your own rather than relying on them to do all the hard work. Finding several PhD topics that are interesting to you personally may be a good start.

Analysing the Status Quo

As soon as you have compiled the aforementioned list of 5-7 topics in your area of interest, you need to return to the analysis of academic and practitioner literature on the subject. Allocate 1-2 days per each entry and check the following information in these corresponding spheres:

The checklist in this section is focused on the need to identify whether your topic has sufficient academic novelty. If the targeted sphere has already been covered by multiple earlier studies with a similar focus, you may have to remove such entries from your earlier compiled list. Ideally, you should focus on areas that have not been studied in sufficient detail beyond the point of several pioneer publications showing their high potential value.

Risk of Competition

The world of academia exists in a state of continuous motion, which means that hundreds of new studies are published on a daily basis. This introduces a risk of competition where some other researchers select a similar topic and start publishing articles and/or pursuing a PhD programme based on it. Such rival projects reduce your academic novelty and may even force you to change your focus or PhD topic formulation in the middle of your own journey. The checklist items in the previous section should be thoroughly followed to minimise the risk of competition in your selected sphere. You may also utilise the following methods allowing you to further reduce potential threats in this field:

These activities will ensure that your name will emerge after any search related to your topic of interest, which will convince potential competitors to select another research focus.

Research Existing PhD Programmes in Your Field

Many universities advertise PhD programmes with specified research topics. The analysis of such offerings in your field may be a good indicator of potential competition or potential value in this area. This investigation should ideally lead to the following conclusions:

This analysis will also reveal the universities potentially willing to help you pursue your dream topic right away. If they openly declare their interest in this field and the presence of competent supervisors with sufficient knowledge in it, this may put them on your application shortlist.

Appraise the Funding Availability

The previous section has highlighted the problem of finding a suitable university willing to supervise your project. This challenge is frequently associated with the difficulties of finding and securing external funding. Since this aspect is crucial for your successful PhD journey, you may want to check the following aspects prior to selecting one of the possible thesis topics:

Not all PhD projects may be able to secure funding from supervising universities or other traditional sponsors. However, this preliminary search can help you identify whether such options are available to you. According to the experience of our clients, this process does not take much time but provides highly positive results in many situations. If you find a programme that is 80% similar to one of your pre-developed topics, it may be reasonable to accept this compromise and negotiate with your targeted university to make your PhD journey a little easier.

Know the Greats

If you start analysing branding techniques, chances are you will have to refer to David Aaker, Jean-Noel Kapferer, and Philip Kotler in your discussion of the current status quo in your area. The understanding of key theories in your field of study is a prerequisite for formulating a high-quality topic. Here are some ways you can incorporate this knowledge:

While explicitly referring to some theories or models may not be suitable for all PhD topics, this preparation may greatly assist you in refining them and findings the best focus possible. These activities will also be crucial during your first year when you will need to develop the conceptual framework of your study and link it with existing models and theories.

Narrowing Down

An ideal PhD topic should meet two primary criteria. On the one hand, it must be sufficiently narrow and specific to minimise the risks of competition mentioned earlier. On the other hand, it needs to create sufficient value for a wide variety of stakeholders in order to substantiate the need for your PhD project. Here are some ideas that will help you find a better balance between these two polar opposites:

Here are some examples of excessively wide and sufficiently narrow PhD topics:

Wrong: The influence of taxation systems on SME growth rates.

Right: Ability-to-pay and the Laffer curve: The influence of progressive tax practices in the UK on fintech relocation intentions.

Wrong: Problems of single mothers: Practical evidence from the UK.

Right: Tailored support schemes for single mothers of colour: The problems of social workers in West Sussex.

Finally, analyse the existing gaps in the literature related to specific methods. Judging from our experience, many potentially interesting areas have only been studied using qualitative methods such as small-sample interviews due to respondent availability issues. This opens great opportunities for PhD researchers able to access specific population groups and collect larger quantitative and qualitative samples. The suggested strategy may be especially suitable for people with good industry connections or persons residing in such areas as the Middle East that remain out of the reach of many western scholars. Here are some examples of words and phrases making your topic context-specific:

• …on the example of Serbia.
• …influence on small manufacturing SMEs.
• …professional activities of university teachers.
• …in the post-COVID environment of Croatia’s tourism industry.

The Role of Your Supervisor

This aspect has been one of the most controversial ones in modern discussions in PhD thesis writing. On the one hand, your supervisor effectively becomes your ‘family member’ for the following 3-4 years and seeks to ensure the success of your shared endeavours. On the other hand, there exist many ‘toxic’ practitioners in academia who may be willing to ‘bend you to their will’ in many spheres including your style of work and your creative inputs. This may be caused by a number of reasons including:

• Their lack of expertise in your area of choice.
• Their willingness to supervise a topic they are more familiar with.
• Their decision to have input even if your research topic is realistic and researchable.

While this may not be the case in all situations, you may choose to follow the steps below to ensure that your supervisor is really criticising your topic due to its problematic nature rather than their own subjective judgement:

Keep in mind that student-supervisor conflicts are widespread in academia. It may be a challenging experience but the lack of attention to your opinion and an excessively directive style of cooperation may become even more problematic down the road. Hence, the inability to get clear answers related to your topic change or reformulation may be a red flag for some students who want to maintain a certain level of independence in their projects. Keep in mind that your supervisor will effectively become your ‘family member’ for the following 3-4 years in terms of time spent with each other. If you cannot promote your own vision in choosing a suitable PhD topic and feel that their opinion is biased, this may be a good motivation to look for a more suitable person to direct your project.

Choosing the Right Research Method

Your conversations with your supervisors and the conducted analysis of secondary literature on the topic should lead you to the final aspect potentially informing your formulation of a PhD topic. Your research method may be largely dictated by the following aspects you must appraise first:

If you are planning to use such analysis methods as linear regressions or correlations, you may choose to include some of the following words in your PhD topic to make it more focused:

• …the impact of… on…
• …the links between… and…
• …how… influences…
• …the interaction between… and…

These links make your topic more focused. They allow supervisors to immediately understand the methods you are planning to use and appraise the quality and viability of your project.

Article Summary

The analysis of the methods above suggests the following key methods you can use to create a suitable PhD topic:

These instruments can be used in isolation or combined depending on your research focus and area of interest. The main thing to keep in mind is the need to avoid ‘inspiration barriers’ that are usually associated with the lack of background reading or an excessive focus on a single topic. The strategy aiming to arrive at multiple entries is preferable due to the lack of this fixation since you do not need to create one ultimate option. As you work in several areas simultaneously, this expands the number of identified research gaps and the overall number of topics you can discuss with your prospective supervisors. This flexibility allows you to select the best programme possible and obtain a superior knowledge of your targeted area, which facilitates further adjustments and negotiations with your university of choice.

Robert started working as an academic writer while pursuing his PhD in Economics, after earning his Masters and Bachelors degrees in Finance and Economics. He also has experience using analysis software such as Stata.

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How to decide on a PhD topic

Study tips Published 5 Apr, 2022  ·  4-minute read

Whether you’re diving right into your doctorate after a master’s degree or honours year, or you’re returning to study after a few years out in the field, working out how to choose a research topic for your PhD is an essential first step. We got some tips from two of our PhD candidates, Sarah Kendall and Chelsea Janke.

Some Doctor of Philosophy candidates are lucky. They start a PhD having already discovered their niche interest area, which means they never need to wonder how to choose a PhD topic.

Does this mean there’s something wrong with you if you don’t already have your thesis locked in?

Not at all.

Many students start their PhD journey with just a pure passion for research – a love for testing theories and making new discoveries – and figure out their specific research topic while working on their proposal . If you’re in this camp, or if you haven’t refined your thesis just yet, these tips can help you get there.

Your PhD will take 3-4 years, so it's important that you choose something you're genuinely interested in.

How to choose a PhD topic

Sarah is the first to admit that choosing a PhD thesis topic is daunting. Her thesis examines lawyers’ approaches to prosecuting and defending domestic and family violence cases, but this topic didn’t come to her overnight.

“This can be really hard,” says Sarah.

“It took me years to decide on a PhD topic, and even then, it continued to change after starting my PhD.”

Chelsea, whose research explores ways to keep soil healthy while reducing environmental impact, agrees that your initial thesis may not necessarily stay the same throughout your PhD.

“Keep in mind that, as you progress through your PhD, your topic may change as you make new findings and discover some interesting things,” she says.

“This is fairly normal and is often why PhD topics aren’t always set in stone at the start.”

Remember this if you find yourself getting frustrated with how long it’s taking to pin down your research topic. You’ll be spending significant time ( at least 3 years ) researching this topic, so it’s reasonable to take a while on this decision. Make sure you land on a topic that truly inspires you, as you’ll need that inspiration to keep you motivated for the long haul.

With that said, though, there’s nothing wrong with picking a topic you’re 99% sure of and getting started sooner. As Sarah and Chelsea both say, adapting your thesis along the way is often part of the PhD journey.

Read, read, read

Identify the things that really spark your interest and where you can find research gaps – that is, where there are still things we don't know.

Chelsea believes choosing your research topic begins with, well, research .

“Read widely on the general field that you’re interested in,” she says.

“Identify the things that really spark your interest and where you can find research gaps – that is, where there are still things we don’t know.”

Sarah agrees and acknowledges that sometimes this prior research can even translate into a separate project or even a degree.

“Do some research into the areas that interest you – this could take the form of an honours or other research project, or even a mock project that you do in your spare time,” she says.

“This will help you to decide your level of interest in the topic.”

Consider your subjects and speak with academics

Sarah recommends thinking about the courses from your current or previous program, as these can shine a light on what aspects of your field ignite your curiosity.

“Consider the subjects that you really enjoyed in your previous studies or those topics that you find really enjoyable to just learn about in your spare time,” she says.

“Narrow this down to a few areas, even if these are still pretty broad, then talk to as many academics as possible who do research in those areas. This is a really great way of finding out more about what’s topical in the area and what a potential project could look like.”

If you already know who you’d like to be your PhD supervisor, they are the obvious person to speak with first about refining your research topic. If not, learn how to find the right supervisor .

Check for openings on existing projects

Sometimes the best way to choose a PhD topic is to let the PhD topic choose you instead. Many academics keep open spots in their research projects for potential candidates to fill, providing opportunities for students to pursue their own thesis while assisting in a larger research team. We call these earmarked PhD projects .

In fact, this is what ended up helping Sarah select her thesis topic.

“Keep an eye out for projects that are being advertised by academics,” says Sarah.

“You might find one that fits with your area of interest, saving you much of the trouble of having to decide on your specific topic – this is how I came to be doing the project I’m currently doing!”

View available earmarked PhD projects at UQ

Ready to start researching your chosen topic? Discover the next steps for your PhD application.

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How To Find A High-Quality Research Topic

By: Caroline Osella (PhD, BA)  and Derek Jansen (MBA) | July 2019

In this post, we’ll provide a straightforward 6-step process that you can follow to ensure you arrive at a high-quality research topic . Follow these steps and you will formulate a well-suited, well-defined core research question .

Overview: How To Find A Research Topic

• Get an understanding of the research process
• Review previous dissertations from your university
• Review the academic literature to start the ideation process
• Identify your potential research questions (topics) and shortlist
• Narrow down, then evaluate your research topic shortlist
• Make the decision (and stick with it!)

Step 1: Understand the research process

It may sound horribly obvious, but it’s an extremely common mistake – students skip past the fundamentals straight to the ideation phase (and then pay dearly for it).

Start by looking at whatever handouts and instructions you’ve been given regarding what your university/department expects of a dissertation. For example, the course handbook, online information and verbal in-class instructions. I know it’s tempting to just dive into the ideation process, but it’s essential to start with the prescribed material first.

There are two important reasons for this:

First , you need to have a basic understanding of the research process , research methodologies , fieldwork options and analysis methods before you start the ideation process, or you will simply not be equipped to think about your own research adequately. If you don’t understand the basics of  quantitative , qualitative and mixed methods BEFORE you start ideating, you’re wasting your time.

Second , your university/department will have specific requirements for your research – for example, requirements in terms of topic originality, word count, data requirements, ethical adherence , methodology, etc. If you are not aware of these from the outset, you will again end up wasting a lot of time on irrelevant ideas/topics.

So, the most important first step is to get your head around both the basics of research (especially methodologies), as well as your institution’s specific requirements . Don’t give in to the temptation to jump ahead before you do this. As a starting point, be sure to check out our free dissertation course.

Step 2: Review past dissertations/theses

Unless you’re undertaking a completely new course, there will be many, many students who have gone through the research process before and have produced successful dissertations, which you can use to orient yourself. This is hugely beneficial – imagine being able to see previous students’ assignments and essays when you were doing your coursework!

Take a look at some well-graded (65% and above) past dissertations from your course (ideally more recent ones, as university requirements may change over time). These are usually available in the university’s online library. Past dissertations will act as a helpful model for all kinds of things, from how long a bibliography needs to be, to what a good literature review looks like, through to what kinds of methods you can use – and how to leverage them to support your argument.

As you peruse past dissertations, ask yourself the following questions:

• What kinds of topics did these dissertations cover and how did they turn the topic into questions?
• How broad or narrow were the topics?
• How original were the topics? Were they truly groundbreaking or just a localised twist on well-established theory?
• How well justified were the topics? Did they seem important or just nice to know?
• How much literature did they draw on as a theoretical base? Was the literature more academic or applied in nature?
• What kinds of research methods did they use and what data did they draw on?
• How did they analyse that data and bring it into the discussion of the academic literature?
• Which of the dissertations are most readable to you – why? How were they presented?
• Can you see why these dissertations were successful? Can you relate what they’ve done back to the university’s instructions/brief?

Seeing a variety of dissertations (at least 5, ideally in your area of interest) will also help you understand whether your university has very rigid expectations in terms of structure and format , or whether they expect and allow variety in the number of chapters, chapter headings, order of content, style of presentation and so on.

Some departments accept graphic novels; some are willing to grade free-flow continental-philosophy style arguments; some want a highly rigid, standardised structure.  Many offer a dissertation template , with information on how marks are split between sections. Check right away whether you have been given one of those templates – and if you do, then use it and don’t try to deviate or reinvent the wheel.

Step 3: Review the academic literature

Now that you (1) understand the research process, (2) understand your university’s specific requirements for your dissertation or thesis, and (3) have a feel for what a good dissertation looks like, you can start the ideation process. This is done by reviewing the current literature and looking for opportunities to add something original to the academic conversation.

Kick start the ideation process

So, where should you start your literature hunt? The best starting point is to get back to your modules. Look at your coursework and the assignments you did. Using your coursework is the best theoretical base, as you are assured that (1) the literature is of a high enough calibre for your university and (2) the topics are relevant to your specific course.

Start by identifying the modules that interested you the most and that you understood well (i.e. earned good marks for). What were your strongest assignments, essays or reports? Which areas within these were particularly interesting to you? For example, within a marketing module, you may have found consumer decision making or organisation trust to be interesting. Create a shortlist of those areas that you were both interested in and academically strong at. It’s no use picking an area that does not genuinely interest you – you’ll run out of motivation if you’re not excited by a topic.

Understand the current state of knowledge

Once you’ve done that, you need to get an understanding of the current state of the literature for your chosen interest areas. What you’re aiming to understand is this: what is the academic conversation here and what critical questions are yet unanswered? These unanswered questions are prime opportunities for a unique, meaningful research topic . A quick review of the literature on your favourite topics will help you understand this.

Grab your reading list from the relevant section of the modules, or simply enter the topics into Google Scholar . Skim-read 3-5 journal articles from the past 5 years which have at least 5 citations each (Google Scholar or a citations index will show you how many citations any given article has – i.e., how many other people have referred to it in their own bibliography). Also, check to see if your discipline has an ‘annual review’ type of journal, which gathers together surveys of the state of knowledge on a chosen topic. This can be a great tool for fast-tracking your understanding of the current state of the knowledge in any given area.

Start from your course’s reading list and work outwards. At the end of every journal article, you’ll find a reference list. Scan this reference list for more relevant articles and read those. Then repeat the process (known as snowballing) until you’ve built up a base of 20-30 quality articles per area of interest.

Absorb, don’t hunt

At this stage, your objective is to read and understand the current state of the theory for your area(s) of interest – you don’t need to be in topic-hunting mode yet. Don’t jump the gun and try to identify research topics before you are well familiarised with the literature.

As you read, try to understand what kinds of questions people are asking and how they are trying to answer them. What matters do the researchers agree on, and more importantly, what are they in disagreement about? Disagreements are prime research territory. Can you identify different ‘schools of thought’ or different ‘approaches’? Do you know what your own approach or slant is? What kinds of articles appeal to you and which ones bore you or leave you feeling like you’ve not really grasped them? Which ones interest you and point towards directions you’d like to research and know more about?

Once you understand the fundamental fact that academic knowledge is a conversation, things get easier.

Think of it like a party. There are groups of people in the room, enjoying conversations about various things. Which group do you want to join?  You don’t want to be that person in the corner, talking to themself. And you don’t want to be the hanger-on, laughing at the big-shot’s jokes and repeating everything they say.

Do you want to join a large group and try to make a small contribution to what’s going on, or are you drawn to a smaller group that’s having a more niche conversation, but where you feel you might more easily find something original to contribute? How many conversations can you identify? Which ones feel closer to you and more attractive? Which ones repel you or leave you cold? Are there some that, frankly, you just don’t understand?

Now, choose a couple of groups who are discussing something you feel interested in and where you feel like you might want to contribute. You want to make your entry into this group by asking a question – a question that will make the other people in the group turn around and look at you, listen to you, and think, “That’s interesting”.

Your dissertation will be the process of setting that question and then trying to find at least a partial answer to that question – but don’t worry about that now.  Right now, you need to work out what conversations are going on, whether any of them are related or overlapping, and which ones you might be able to walk into. I’ll explain how you find that question in the next step.

Need a helping hand?

Step 4: Identify potential research questions

Now that you have a decent understanding of the state of the literature in your area(s) of interest, it’s time to start developing your list of possible research topics. There are (at least) three approaches you can follow here, and they are not mutually exclusive:

Approach 1: Leverage the FRIN

Towards the end of most quality journal articles, you will find a section labelled “ further research ” or something similar. Generally, researchers will clearly outline where they feel further research is needed (FRIN), following on from their own research. So, essentially, every journal article presents you with a list of potential research opportunities.

Of course, only a handful of these will be both practical and of interest to you, so it’s not a quick-fix solution to finding a research topic. However, the benefit of going this route is that you will be able to find a genuinely original and meaningful research topic (which is particularly important for PhD-level research).

The upside to this approach is originality, but the downside is that you might not find something that really interests you , or that you have the means to execute. If you do go this route, make sure that you pay attention to the journal article dates, as the FRIN may already have been “solved” by other researchers if the article is old.

Approach 2: Put a context-based spin on an existing topic

The second option is to consider whether a theory which is already well established is relevant within a local or industry-specific context. For example, a theory about the antecedents (drivers) of trust is very well established, but there may be unique or uniquely important drivers within a specific national context or industry (for example, within the financial services industry in an emerging market).

If that industry or national context has not yet been covered by researchers and there is a good reason to believe there may be meaningful differences within that context, then you have an opportunity to take a unique angle on well-established theory, which can make for a great piece of research. It is however imperative that you have a good reason to believe that the existing theory may not be wholly relevant within your chosen context, or your research will not be justified.

The upside to this approach is that you can potentially find a topic that is “closer to home” and more relevant and interesting to you , while still being able to draw on a well-established body of theory. However, the downside is that this approach will likely not produce the level of originality as approach #1.

Approach 3: Uncensored brainstorming

The third option is to skip the FRIN, as well as the local/industry-specific angle and simply engage in a freeform brainstorming or mind-mapping session, using your newfound knowledge of the theory to formulate potential research ideas. What’s important here is that you do not censor yourself . However crazy, unfeasible, or plain stupid your topic appears – write it down. All that matters right now is that you are interested in this thing.

Next, try to turn the topic(s) into a question or problem. For example:

• What is the relationship between X, Y & Z?
• What are the drivers/antecedents of X?
• What are the outcomes of Y?
• What are the key success factors for Z?

Re-word your list of topics or issues into a list of questions .  You might find at this stage that one research topic throws up three questions (which then become sub-topics and even new separate topics in their own right) and in so doing, the list grows. Let it. Don’t hold back or try to start evaluating your ideas yet – just let them flow onto paper.

Once you’ve got a few topics and questions on paper, check the literature again to see whether any of these have been covered by the existing research. Since you came up with these from scratch, there is a possibility that your original literature search did not cover them, so it’s important to revisit that phase to ensure that you’re familiar with the relevant literature for each idea. You may also then find that approach #1 and #2 can be used to build on these ideas.

Try use all three approaches

As mentioned earlier, the three approaches discussed here are not mutually exclusive. In fact, the more, the merrier. Hopefully, you manage to utilise all three, as this will give you the best odds of producing a rich list of ideas, which you can then narrow down and evaluate, which is the next step.

Step 5: Narrow down, then evaluate

By this stage, you should have a healthy list of research topics. Step away from the ideation and thinking for a few days, clear your mind. The key is to get some distance from your ideas, so that you can sit down with your list and review it with a more objective view. The unbridled ideation phase is over and now it’s time to take a reality check .

Look at your list and see if any options can be crossed off right away .  Maybe you don’t want to do that topic anymore. Maybe the topic turned out to be too broad and threw up 20 hard to answer questions. Maybe all the literature you found about it was 30 years old and you suspect it might not be a very engaging contemporary issue . Maybe this topic is so over-researched that you’ll struggle to find anything fresh to say. Also, after stepping back, it’s quite common to notice that 2 or 3 of your topics are really the same one, the same question, which you’ve written down in slightly different ways. You can try to amalgamate these into one succinct topic.

Narrow down to the top 5, then evaluate

Now, take your streamlined list and narrow it down to the ‘top 5’ that interest you the most. Personal interest is your key evaluation criterion at this stage. Got your ‘top 5’?  Great!  Now, with a cool head and your best analytical mind engaged, go systematically through each option and evaluate them against the following criteria:

Research questions – what is the main research question, and what are the supporting sub-questions? It’s critically important that you can define these questions clearly and concisely. If you cannot do this, it means you haven’t thought the topic through sufficiently.

Originality – is the topic sufficiently original, as per your university’s originality requirements? Are you able to add something unique to the existing conversation? As mentioned earlier, originality can come in many forms, and it doesn’t mean that you need to find a completely new, cutting-edge topic. However, your university’s requirements should guide your decision-making here.

Importance – is the topic of real significance, or is it just a “nice to know”? If it’s significant, why? Who will benefit from finding the answer to your desired questions and how will they benefit? Justifying your research will be a key requirement for your research proposal , so it’s really important to develop a convincing argument here.

Literature – is there a contemporary (current) body of academic literature around this issue? Is there enough literature for you to base your investigation on, but not too much that the topic is “overdone”? Will you be able to navigate this literature or is it overwhelming?

Data requirements – What kind of data would you need access to in order to answer your key questions?  Would you need to adopt a qualitative, quantitative or mixed-methods approach to answer your questions? At this stage, you don’t need to be able to map out your exact research design, but you should be able to articulate how you would approach it in high-level terms. Will you use qual, quant or mixed methods? Why?

Feasibility – How feasible would it be to gather the data that would be needed in the time-frame that you have – and do you have the will power and the skills to do it? If you’re not confident with the theory, you don’t want something that’s going to draw you into a debate about the relative importance of epistemology and ontology. If you are shy, you won’t want to be doing ethnographic interviews. If you feel this question calls for a 100-person survey, do you have the time to plan, organise and conduct it and then analyse it? What will you do if you don’t get the response rate you expect? Be very realistic here and also ask advice from your supervisor and other experts – poor response rates are extremely common and can derail even the best research projects.

Personal attraction – On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you about this topic? Will addressing it add value to your life and/or career? Will undertaking the project help you build a skill you’ve previously wanted to work on (for example, interview skills, statistical analysis skills, software skills, etc.)?

The last point is particularly important. You will have to engage with your dissertation in a very sustained and deep way, face challenges and difficulties, and get it to completion. If you don’t start out enthusiastic about it, you’re setting yourself up for problems like ‘writer’s block’ or ‘burnout’ down the line. This is the reason personal interest was the sole evaluation criterion when we chose the top 5. So, don’t underestimate the importance of personal attraction to a topic – at the same time, don’t let personal attraction lead you to choose a topic that is not relevant to your course or feasible given your resources.

Narrow down to 3, then get human feedback

We’re almost at the finishing line. The next step is to narrow down to 2 or 3 shortlisted topics. No more!  Write a short paragraph about each topic, addressing the following:

Firstly,  WHAT will this study be about? Frame the topic as a question or a problem. Write it as a dissertation title. No more than two clauses and no more than 15 words. Less than 15 is better (go back to good journal articles for inspiration on appropriate title styles).

Secondly, WHY this is interesting (original) and important – as proven by existing academic literature? Are people talking about this and is there an acknowledged problem, debate or gap in the literature?

Lastly,  HOW do you plan to answer the question? What sub-questions will you use? What methods does this call for and how competent and confident are you in those methods? Do you have the time to gather the data this calls for?

Show the shortlist and accompanying paragraphs to a couple of your peers from your course and also to an expert or two if at all possible (you’re welcome to reach out to us ), explaining what you will investigate, why this is original and important and how you will go about investigating it. 

Once you’ve pitched your ideas, ask for the following thoughts :

• Which is most interesting and appealing to them?
• Why do they feel this way?
• What problems do they foresee with the execution of the research?

Take advice and feedback and sit on it for another day. Let it simmer in your mind overnight before you make the final decision.  

Step 6: Make the decision (and stick with it!)

Then, make the commitment. Choose the one that you feel most confident about, having now considered both your opinion and the feedback from others.

Once you’ve made a decision, don’t doubt your judgement, don’t shift.  Don’t be tempted by the ones you left behind. You’ve planned and thought things through, checked feasibility and now you can start.  You have your research topic. Trust your own decision-making process and stick with it now. It’s time to get started on your research proposal!

Let’s recap…

In this post, I’ve proposed a straightforward 6-step plan to finding relevant research topic ideas and then narrowing them down to finally choose one winner. To recap:

• Understand the basics of academic research, as well as your university’s specific requirements for a dissertation, thesis or research project.
• Review previous dissertations for your course to get an idea of both topics and structure.
• Start the ideation process by familiarising yourself with the literature.
• Identify your potential research questions (topics).
• Narrow down your options, then evaluate systematically.
• Make your decision (and don’t look back!)

If you follow these steps, you’ll find that they also set you up for what’s coming next – both the proposal and the first three chapters of your dissertation. But that’s for future posts!

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The Grad Coach Podcast

24 Comments

I would love to get a topic under teachers performance. I am a student of MSC Monitoring and Evaluations and I need a topic in the line of monitoring and evaluations

I just we put for some full notes that are payable

Thank you very much Dr Caroline

I need a project topics on transfer of learning

I would like to get a simple and direct research topic in integrated water resources management ( water quality and innovative water treatment technologies)

m a PhD Student I would like to be assisted inn formulating a title around: Internet of Things for online education in higher education – STEM (Science, technology, engineering and Mathematics, digital divide ) Thank you, would appreciate your guidance

Well structured guide on the topic… Good materials for beginners in research writing…

Hello Iam kindly seeking for help in formulating a researchable topic for masters degree program in line with teaching GRAPHIC ART

I read a thesis about a problem in a particular. Can I use the same topic just referring to my own country? Is that being original? The interview questions will mostly be the same as the other thesis.

Hi, thanks I managed to listen to the video so helpful indeed. I am currently an MBA student looking for a specific topic and I have different ideas that not sure they can be turned to be a study.

I am doing a Master of Theology in Pastoral Care and Counselling and I felt like doing research on Spiritual problem cause by substance abuse among Youth. Can I get help to formulate the Thesis Title in line with it…please

Hello, I am kindly seeking help in formulating a researchable topic for a National diploma program

As a beginner in research, I am very grateful for this well-structured material on research writing.

Hello, I watched the video and its very helpful. I’m a student in Nursing (degree). May you please help me with any research problems (in Namibian society or Nursing) that need to be evaluate or solved?

I have been greatly impacted. Thank you.

more than useful… there will be no justification if someone fails to get a topic for his thesis

I watched the video and its really helpful.

How can i started discovery

Analysing the significance of Integrated reporting in Zimbabwe. A case of institutional investors. this is my topic for PHD Accounting sciences need help with research questions

Excellent session that cleared lots of doubts.

Excellent session that cleared lots of doubts

It was a nice one thank you

Wow, This helped a lot not only with how to find a research topic but inspired me to kick it off from now, I am a final year student of environmental science. And have to complete my project in the coming six months.

I was really stressed and thinking about different topics that I don’t know nothing about and having more than a hundred topics in the baggage, couldn’t make the tradeoff among them, however, reading this scrubbed the fuzzy layer off my head and now it seems like really easy.

Thanks GRADCOACH, you saved me from getting into the rabbit hole.

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Unraveling the Mysteries of PhD Project Topics Selection

Blog Summary

A PhD requires distinct skill sets from a master’s and a bachelor’s. The biggest obstacle for PhD candidates is choosing a project subject or problem statement. This blog article aims to inform readers about how to select and complete their PhD projects. Your inner motivation and areas of interest should be the top considerations while selecting your specialization. Never start a PhD program without getting clarification on the research labs you should choose. For application alerts, while enrolled in your master’s program, register with PhD Portals. Select an interest-provoking subject, then read everything there is to know about it. A successful thesis requires adhering to the “Write, Rewrite, and Write” cycle.

Tips to Write your PhD Thesis

Pursuing a PhD, unlike your master’s or bachelor’s program, demands altogether different skill sets. You have a fixed set of subjects with some open elective and core-elective to study in those programs. But in a PhD program , you are aware of your stream of study like computer science, management, finance, humanities, etc.

But the PhD project topics on which you carry out research are wide open. You are supposed to narrow down to a particular thesis topic idea or field of study. Selecting a PhD project topic or problem statement is the biggest challenge for PhD students. This blog post attempts to educate scholars on selecting a PhD project of their choice and completing it.

How Do I Choose a PhD Project?

Choosing a PhD project topic is the primary work in pursuing a PhD program. It is not like choosing an undergraduate or postgraduate program. It demands patience. So, take your time.

Next, you should be in a position to decide what type of PhD project you want to pursue. Broadly there are three types of PhD projects:

• Advertised PhD projects
• Self-proposed PhD projects
• Professional Doctorates

The Advertised Projects are common in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Medicine (STEM) . Research groups and Well-established laboratories offer these programs.

The Self-proposed projects are common in the Humanities and Arts arena. Here, you are free to choose a thesis topic as long as it falls in the purview of a research topic.

Professional Doctorates in vocational subjects like Business and Management awarded to practitioners are not academic qualifications.

What Makes a good PhD Project?

A PhD project should, first of all, have a clear goal. So, it starts with a proposal. A PhD proposal is a clear and concise document illustrating the problem statement and the goals of your work. It should also highlight why it is worth pursuing?

A typical PhD project involves Five steps:

• Identifying a problem statement
• Carrying out a comprehensive literature review
• Conducting Original Research and finding out results
• Producing a Thesis that documents your results
• Writing the thesis and taking up Viva-Voce 

Tips for choosing a PhD project and topics

Here you have two sets of Tips:

• Tips to Apply for a PhD project and choosing a PhD project topic

Tips to Apply for a PhD project

1. Be Aware of Your Niche

Just because you are a computer science postgraduate and AI or Data Science is the trend; You needn’t select these areas. What matters is your interest and inner drive that should be the priority in choosing your niche.

2. Your Comfort Level to Relocate to Another City

Once you have identified your niche and the University/Research Labs, you may have to relocate to a new city. Make up your mind to relocate and also be decisive in making your choice.

3. Identify the Departments and Research Labs Succinctly

You are supposed to conduct a lot of research before boiling it down to a particular Department or University. This is a necessity as it is crucial to identify your core interests and ideas.

4. Obtain Clarity from Your Research Supervisor

Never dive into a PhD program without seeking clarity about the Research labs you are supposed to join. If it is a funded project, get clarification about all facts that are not obvious. Have one to one discussion with your Research Supervisor over Skype or any messenger to seek clarity regarding questions like,

• How many people work in the lab?
• What are their designations?
• Are you supposed to collaborate with any of them?

5. Register with PhD Portals to Get Application Alerts

During your Master’s Program, register with online portals that provide information on PhD programs offered by various Labs and Universities. This helps you to be informed about itineraries of multiple institutes.

6. Seek Seniors and Teachers Help

Ignorance is the biggest culprit that sinks your career ship. Regardless of how small your doubt is, get it clarified from your professors and seniors. Discuss issues like how to formulate an email, cover letter, resume, and other application procedures.

7. Understand the Team Well

It is not only the project that should create enthusiasm; it is also the team you will be working with. The team is vital to complete a project. Before diving into a project, try to understand whether you can get along with your teammates. 

8. Different Types of Funding Exists

When you apply for funded projects, you often come across various types. Some are not funded, while some are competition-funded also. Your enthusiasm for getting into the project plays a vital role in the supervisors picking you in competitive funding. So, Love your work to the core. 

9. Always Apply for More than One University/Institute

Prepare as many applications as possible and shoot them to different institutes. This process provides a wide array of experience in how to draft an application and approach the institutes. Such skills will help you in the long term.

10. Failure is the Stepping Stone to Success

You might fail once or twice in getting shortlisted or fail to perform in the interview. The number of interviews you have faced will help nurture your interpersonal skills.

Below are the general tips any PhD scholar should follow to be successful.

• While choosing a PhD project topic most crucial parameter is to rely on a topic that is interesting for you.
• Thoroughly read everything about the topic.
• Find a theoretical basis to support your idea.
• Be prepared to shift gears as the research progresses and your presumptions about the outcomes change.
• Be open to taking inputs from others to fine-tune your views.
• Formulate a committee of researchers,
• Be diligent in gathering data.
• The Panache for Effective Thesis Writing is Follow ing the “Write, Rewrite, and Write” Cycle. It doesn’t matter if your writing is good or bad; take tips from professional writers online. Most importantly, Good writing is all about Editing again and again. So, never feel daunted by Thesis writing; enjoy every bit of it.
• Sit with your Research Supervisor and prepare well-structured content with a Table of Content adequately defined. Regardless of being an expert writer or novice, your first draft always needs tweaking. Never be disheartened by re-editing work patience is key here.
• Thesis Writing needn’t be boring and monotony work. Bring in flair to your writing by inserting adjectives, says, expert writers.
• A chronologically written thesis is a misconception. As soon as you complete a piece of experiment or research, document it neatly when it is fresh in your mind. Later it can be integrated into the Final Thesis as per the Table of Contents.
• Once you research and write a chapter, take a break and come back with a critical perspective to discover possible mistakes. This always helps. Do not write in a marathon-style take breaks.
• Plagiarism is the biggest enemy of any research document. Whenever you quote an existing work, paraphrase properly and provide references and citations. 
• All universities have their Templates and Preferred Style of References . Religiously stick to the guidelines given by your university.
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71 Best Education Dissertation Topic Ideas

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

It’s hard to choose and settle on a topic for your education dissertation. When I was choosing my topic, I was confused and uncertain. I wished I had a list like this that would help me out!

The topics below are best for undergraduate (B.A / B.Ed) or masters (M.A / M.Ed) students. Check out these 51 topic ideas, use them, and adapt them to create a topic that suits you.

The Lazy Man’s Top 10

before I dig in…

Here is a quick list of my top 9 favorite education dissertation topic ideas:

• What skill development strategies can be observed in children’s play?
• What evidence is there for the theory of multiple intelligences?
• What are parents’ attitudes toward play-based learning in schools?
• Is there a correlation between student stress levels and standardized exams?
• What are the differences in teaching strategies between experienced and novice teachers?
• What are the greatest challenges faced by teachers in their first 3 years in the profession?
• What does the literature say about the differences between phonics and whole language learning?
• What are the factors facilitating successful inclusion of students with behavioral disabilities?
• What do teachers believe has been the effect of technology on students’ learning?

Read this First: 9 Tips for Choosing a Dissertation Topic

Education Dissertation Topic Ideas (List

1. dissertation ideas for studying early childhood education.

• Structured and Unstructured Play: What are the perspectives of parents about the benefits of structured and unstructured play for children?
• Transitioning to School: What do educators identify as the key challenges of transitioning from early childhood to compulsory schooling settings?
• Children’s Book Representation: How do the 50 most popular children’s books of the 21 st Century promote gender norms? (For this one, consider also using the social graces concept to add a more analytical lens.)
• Montessori Settings: What do teachers in Montessori educational settings perceive to be the benefits and limitations of a Montessori-style education?
• Parents’ Anxieties: What are parents’ initial anxieties about sending their children to preschool?
• Studying Promotional Literature: A semiotic analysis of the representation of the stages of play in early childhood learning center promotional literature.
• Representation in News: How is the early childhood education and care (ECEC) profession represented in mainstream news?
• Benefits of ECE: What do parent perceive to be the developmental benefits of early childhood education for their children?
• Impact of Digital Technologies on Early Learning : Exploring how the use of tablets, educational apps, and digital storytelling influences cognitive and social development in preschool children.
• Parental Involvement and Its Effects on Early Childhood Education : Examining the role of parental engagement in the educational outcomes and social development of preschool children.
• Comparative Study of Outdoor Versus Indoor Play in Early Childhood Development : Assessing the impact of outdoor play environments versus traditional indoor classrooms on physical, emotional, and cognitive growth in young children.
• Nutrition and Cognitive Development in Early Childhood : Investigating the correlation between nutritional intake and cognitive development in preschool-aged children.
• Early Intervention Strategies for Children with Special Needs : Exploring effective early intervention techniques for children with developmental delays or disabilities in early childhood education settings.
• The Role of Storytelling in Language Development : Analyzing how storytelling and narrative play contribute to language acquisition and literacy skills in early childhood.
• Effects of Teacher-Child Ratio on Learning Outcomes : Evaluating the impact of teacher-to-child ratios in preschool settings on individual attention, learning outcomes, and overall classroom dynamics.
• Exploring Play-Based Learning Versus Structured Curriculum in Early Education : Comparing the outcomes of play-based learning approaches to more structured, curriculum-based methods in early childhood education.
• Social-Emotional Learning in Early Childhood Education : Investigating the integration and effectiveness of social-emotional learning programs in fostering emotional intelligence, empathy, and interpersonal skills in young children.
• Cultural Diversity in Early Childhood Classrooms : Investigating how educators can integrate various cultural backgrounds and practices into their teaching to create an inclusive environment for children.

2. Dissertation Ideas for Studying Elementary Teaching

• Piaget’s Stages: Are Piaget’s stages of development an accurate reflection of the abilities of children in the concrete stage of development?
• Behavior Management Styles: What are teachers’ perspectives of authoritarian behavior management strategies ?
• Behavior Management Strategies: What do teachers perceive as the most effective behavior management strategy for children aged 5 – 7?
• Pros and Cons of Homework : What do parents perceive to be the benefits of no homework for children?
• Autism in Classrooms: What are parents’ perceptions and concerns about integration of children with autism into mainstream classrooms?
• Seating Arrangements: How do changes in seating arrangements from rows to table groups impact learning in a Grade 5 classroom?
• Benefits of Play Breaks: According to educators, what are the benefits and limitations of regular play breaks for learning?
• Phonics vs Whole Language Learning: What do teachers perceive to be the benefits and limitations of the phonics versus whole language learning approaches to literacy?
• Development through Play: What skill development strategies can be observed in children’s play during recess breaks in schools?
• Compulsory School Uniforms: What do educators in a school that has compulsory school uniforms see as the educational benefits or drawbacks of compulsory uniforms?
• Sense of Belonging: What are the barriers and opportunities for promoting a ‘sense of belonging’ in primary school classrooms?
• Technology Integration in Elementary Classrooms : Investigating the impact of integrating technology such as interactive whiteboards and educational software on student engagement and learning outcomes.
• Differentiated Instruction Strategies : Evaluating the effectiveness of differentiated instruction in meeting the diverse learning needs of students in elementary school settings.
• Parent-Teacher Communication : Analyzing the role of parent-teacher communication in student academic performance and behavioral development in elementary schools.
• Impact of Bilingual Education : Exploring the cognitive, linguistic, and academic outcomes of bilingual education programs in elementary schools.
• Teacher Perceptions of Standardized Testing : Investigating elementary school teachers’ views on the impact of standardized testing on teaching practices and student learning.
• Social Skills Development Through Cooperative Learning : Examining the effectiveness of cooperative learning strategies in promoting social skills and teamwork among elementary school students.
• Environmental Education in Elementary Curriculum : Analyzing the impact of incorporating environmental education into the elementary curriculum on students’ awareness and attitudes towards environmental issues.

Related: How to Write a Dissertation from Beginning to End

3. Dissertation Ideas for Studying Middle & High School Contexts

• Homework vs Extracurricular Activities: What are students’ perceptions of the impact of homework on their after school extracurricular activities?
• Nationalism in Curriculum Documents: How are nationalist ideologies reinforced and challenged in the current curriculum documents of [your jurisdiction]?
• Preparation for Life: What are students’ perceptions of how well school prepares them for university / trades / real life?
• Standardized Tests: What are students’ / teachers’/ parents’ perceptions of standardized tests in high school?
• Mentorship: What do high school teachers in leadership positions perceive to be the best approaches to mentoring early career teachers?
• Childhood Citizenship: Which models of childhood citizenship are evident in [your jurisdiction’s] curriculum?
• Traits of Quality Teachers: What do parents perceive to be the traits of quality teachers in primary school vs. high school?
• Students’ Perceptions of Teachers: What do adolescents see as the qualities of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ teachers?
• Moral Values in Education: What do educators see as their role versus parents’ roles in promoting the moral values of children?
• Migrant Challenges in the School System: What do parents of immigrant children see as the challenges their children face in schools in their new nation?

4. Educational Technology Dissertation Ideas

• Use of Electronic Whiteboards: How prepared do pre-service teachers feel about teaching using Electronic White Boards?
• Mobile Phones in the Classroom: What are parents’ perceptions of classroom mobile phone apps that are designed to increase parent-student interactions?
• Impact of Technology on Learning: What are teachers’ perspectives of the impact of technology on student learning?
• Gaming for Creative Writing: Can gaming help promote creative writing skills among boys aged 10-12?
• Best Age for Introducing Technology: What age do parents perceive to be the best age for introducing children to technology?
• Boys vs Girls Technology Usage: What are the differences between boys’ and girls’ technology usage habits during free time at school?
• Online Learning Benefits and Challenges: What social, pedagogical and cognitive benefits and limitations do students face when learning online ?
• Use of AI Large Language Models: How can Large Language Models like ChatGPT be beneficial for learning?

5. General Education and Teaching Dissertation Ideas

• The Value of University: What do experienced educators perceive is the value of their university education?
• Poverty and Education: What are teachers’ perceptions of the barriers and opportunities to learning for children in poverty?
• Challenges faced by [Gender] Teachers: What challenges do male educators face in their first 5 years of teaching?
• Anti-Bullying Policies: What are the main ways school leaders approach whole-school anti-bullying policy development?
• Behavior Management for Developmental Delays: How do teachers differentiate their behavior management strategies for children with developmental delays?
• Netiquette: What do teachers believe to be effective netiquette rules for online learning ?
• Motivations for Taking a Promotion: What are the factors that impact teachers’ motivations for promotion into leadership positions in schools?
• Reflective Practice: What do teachers perceive to be the role of reflection in their practice, and what are the most common reflective practice strategies among practitioners?
• Theory Testing: What evidence is there for the theory of multiple intelligences?
• Extroverts vs Introverts: How do Introverted and Extroverted Students Learn Differently?
• Purpose of Schooling: What do parents perceive to be the purpose of schooling?
• Experienced vs Novice Teachers: What differences are there in behavior management strategies for experienced versus novice teachers?
• Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Motivation: What do teachers believe are the benefits and challenges of intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation strategies ?

6. Ideas that Involve Interviewing your Classmates!

A lot of my students like to use this idea because they can use a snowball sampling method rather than having to seek out teachers or schools to interview and study:

• Concerns in Entering the Teaching Profession: What do pre-service teachers see as their biggest worries about entering the teaching profession?
• Feeling Unprepared: What do pre-service teachers perceive to be the major factors that their degree does not prepare them for, before entering the workforce?
• Benefits of a Dissertation Project: What do a cohort of teacher education students see as the benefits of conducting a final dissertation project prior to entering the profession? (see also: cohort effect )
• Differences in Perspectives (Freshman vs Senior): What are the differences between freshman (first year) and senior (final year) students’ perspectives of the role of the classroom teacher in the 21 st Century?

Read Also: 25 Sociology Dissertation Ideas

What to do once you Choose your Topic for an Education Dissertation

Hopefully by now you have highlighted or written down 3 topics that caught your eye.

I recommend for your next step that you organize a meeting with your dissertation supervisor. Your supervisor will talk with you about your three ideas and give you advice on which to choose and why.

Each university has different requirements, so you’ll need to get input from your supervisor. Your supervisor is the person who can help you to navigate the special requirements of your particular program of study.

You’ll find that you and your supervisor will be able to tailor your chosen topic to you and your needs.

Good luck, and please do leave a comment below if you found this post useful!

I’m also always looking for more ideas to add to this list so if you came up with another idea, share it below.

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 20 Montessori Toddler Bedrooms (Design Inspiration)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 21 Montessori Homeschool Setups
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 101 Hidden Talents Examples

1 thought on “71 Best Education Dissertation Topic Ideas”

Thank you for this! These open-ended examples helped me to broaden my topic some!

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1045 Dissertation Topics & Thesis Ideas to Research in 2024

A well-formulated dissertation topic sets the foundation for successful research. It allows you to delve deep into a subject you are passionate about and enhance your expertise in the chosen field. Unfortunately, many students neglect this step and hope their research findings will outshine the title. As a result, they lose points since the topic significantly influences how others perceive their research. A weak topic may discourage people from reading the paper.

In this article, our expert team prepared a list of dissertation topics in different research areas and some academic writing advice. Read on to find a perfect subject in business, public administration, leadership, law, history, psychology, management, finance, marketing, art, and more.

• 🔝 Dissertation Topics 2024
• 🤓 Good Dissertation Topic Features

👩‍🎓 PhD Dissertation Topics

💼 business dissertation topics, 🎓 dissertation topics in education, 📍 how to choose a thesis topic, 📚 senior thesis topics, 🔗 references, 🔝 top-12 dissertation topics in 2024.

• The impact of machine learning on job automation.
• Ethical considerations of personal data collection.
• The role of business in environmental sustainability awareness.
• Implementation of fintech in the banking industry.
• The impact of social media influencers on teenagers.
• Can we improve workplace diversity with inclusive hiring practices?
• Blockchain applications for supply chain transparency.
• Privacy challenges in the Internet of Things: balancing convenience and security.
• Strategies for sustainable business practices.
• Effectiveness of workplace well-being programs.
• Factors influencing purchase decisions of online consumers.
• Virtual reality marketing: engaging customers in immersive experiences.

What Is the Difference Between a Thesis and a Dissertation?

The main difference between these two projects is that master’s degree students write a thesis, while doctoral degree programs require a dissertation. Another difference is that a dissertation needs an oral defense, while a thesis doesn’t. Finally, a typical master’s thesis has around 40-80 pages, in contrast to a dissertation with 100-300 pages.

🤓 What Makes a Good Dissertation Topic

It is essential to carefully choose a topic that contributes to your knowledge and academic growth and, at the same time, reveals a specific issue in the related field. The table below highlights the key characteristics of a good dissertation topic.

• Novelty. The topic should bring fresh insights, explore new perspectives, and contribute to existing knowledge.
• Specificity. A well-defined and narrow topic allows for in-depth analysis and comprehensive research, avoiding ambiguity or broad generalizations.
• Clarity. The topic should be clearly articulated and precise so that the research objectives and scope are well understood.
• Empirical foundation. An ideal topic should have a solid empirical basis supported by evidence-based research and reliable data.
• Design. The topic should imply relevant and valid data for analysis, ensuring proper research design and methodology .
• Relevance. The topic should align with the researcher’s interests, skills, and career plans while addressing current trends and knowledge gaps.

Your topic should inspire you, but you also have to ensure its academic or practical applicability in your discipline.

How Long Should a Dissertation Title Be?

A dissertation title should be directly related to the topic and give the information to readers quickly. The general recommendations are that the dissertation title should not exceed 10-12 words or 120 characters. However, you should always consult your university guidelines since the requirements may vary.

A PhD dissertation is a comprehensive, original research demonstrating a student’s expertise and knowledge. It combines years of study, critical thinking, and independent research. A dissertation shows the student’s ability to advance and make an impact in their discipline.

Public Administration Dissertation Topics

Public administration includes various aspects of state institutions and the interaction between the government and its citizens. It focuses on the efficiency of public services, promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making in the public sector. Check these examples of public administration dissertation titles to find out what is the best topic for you:

• Policy implementation challenges in government agencies.
• The cybercrime effect on public administration .
• Enhancing public service delivery using e-government initiatives.
• Public-private partnerships in infrastructure development.
• Machine learning for public administration .
• Performance measurement and accountability in public sector organizations.
• Ethical decision-making in public administration in the USA.
• Ethical awareness in American public administration .
• The role of citizen participation in local governance processes.
• Leadership styles and their impact on public sector performance.
• Accountability in public administration .
• Public budgeting and financial management in times of economic crisis.
• Crisis management and emergency preparedness in public administration.
• Public administration: public budgeting methods .
• Reaching government transparency using open data initiatives.
• Public sector innovation: promoting creativity and efficiency.
• Social equity and public administration .
• Evaluating the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures in public organizations.
• Collaborative governance: multisectoral partnerships for policy development.
• Judicial process of public administration: Baker vs. Canada .
• Methods and approaches of public policy evaluation.
• Diversity and inclusion in public sector workforce.
• Public administration and fiscal policy .
• Environmental policy and sustainable development in the USA.
• Digital divide : addressing the technological gap in public administration.
• Constructive criticism in public administration .
• Human resource management in public sector organizations.
• Public procurement and contracting: challenges and best practices.
• Hurricane Katrina and public administration action .
• Policy implementation in complex policy environments.
• Public sector ethics: navigating conflicts of interest.
• Economics and technology in public administration .
• Urban planning and sustainable cities in the USA.
• Social equity and justice in public administration.
• Managing diversity within public administration .
• Public health policy: addressing emerging health challenges.
• Decentralization and local governance models.
• Public administration: the trait approach to leadership .
• Public sector innovation labs: advancing policy design and implementation.
• Performance-based budgeting and outcome measurement.
• Organizational socialization in public administration .
• Public-private collaboration in social welfare services.
• Public opinion and policymaking in the USA.
• New York’s public administration agenda .
• Implementation of digital transformation in public administration.

Law Dissertation Topics

Research in the field of law is essential for advancing legal understanding, shaping policy, and addressing societal issues. It examines various aspects of legal systems, doctrines, and practices to foster justice, promote the rule of law, and ensure effective governance.

Select your dissertation topic about law from the list below:

• The balance between individual rights and state power in constitutional law .
• Computer law on data security and cracking .
• Fairness and rehabilitation in the criminal justice system after criminal justice reforms.
• Protection of innovation and creativity using intellectual property law .
• Law-accepted manner of self-defense .
• The impact of human rights law on safeguarding human dignity and equality.
• The possibility of balance between conservation and development in environmental law.
• Assisted suicide: common law and ethics .
• Corporate governance : ethics and accountability in corporate decision-making.
• The challenges of data protection and surveillance in privacy law.
• Intellectual property law – the case of “High-Friend!”
• The role of international trade law in promoting free trade.
• Addressing cyber threats and protecting digital infrastructure using cybersecurity law.
• Invasion of a person’s privacy: law and confidentiality .
• Immigration law and policy: balance between national security and humanitarian considerations.
• Fairness and protection in matters of marriage, divorce, and child custody.
• Plea-bargaining law: the impact on criminal justice .
• Comparative law in the USA: legal systems and cultures across different jurisdictions.
• The role and power of administrative agencies in the USA.
• Law in international relations: the Avena case .
• Access to healthcare and medical ethics in American health law and policies.
• Recognition and protection of indigenous rights and sovereignty.
• US gun laws and homeland security strategies .
• The effectiveness of antitrust law in preventing monopolies .
• International humanitarian law : protection for victims of armed conflicts.
• US employment laws and human resource management .
• The need for tax law and policy reforms to establish a fair taxation system.
• The impact of employment law on promoting fair employment practices.
• The American labor law: employment at will .
• Jurisprudence and legal theory: philosophical foundations of law and justice.
• The role of non-adversarial methods in dispute resolution .
• Immigration law in Arizona: main concepts .
• Constitutional rights and civil liberties reflecting individual freedoms and state interests.
• The outcomes of negligence in legal ethics and professional responsibility.
• Law: freedom of speech and the right to offend .
• Immigration and refugee law: the rights of migrants and refugees in the USA.
• Ensuring transparency and fairness in financial markets using securities regulation.
• The role of law in electronic health information .
• International criminal law : individuals accountable for crimes against humanity.
• Restorative justice : an alternative to traditional punitive approaches in criminal justice.
• American gun control laws: reasons to implement .
• The effects of gender-based discrimination in a law career.
• Admissibility and weight of evidence in legal proceedings.
• War law transformation throughout history .
• The legal implications of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence.

History Dissertation Topics

History is crucial for understanding the past and interpreting the present. Historical research provides insights into different societies, cultures, and civilizations. It allows us to gain a more profound knowledge of our heritage and learn from past mistakes.

Check this selection of history dissertation topics below:

• The socioeconomic impact of colonialism on indigenous communities.
• The Persian War and Athenian progress: ancient history .
• Gender roles and power dynamics in ancient Greek society.
• The role of religion in shaping medieval European politics.
• History of Nazi propaganda movies .
• The influence of trade routes on cultural exchange in the Silk Road.
• Intellectual and artistic patronage in Renaissance Florence.
• Social welfare history in the US .
• Social movements and political change in 20th-century Latin America.
• The impact of decolonization on African nationalism and identity.
• The role of Christopher Columbus in US history .
• Female spies in World War II intelligence operations.
• Environmental consequences of industrialization in 19th-century England.
• East Asian history in the 18th-19th centuries .
• The cultural significance of Mesoamerican pyramids and temples.
• Maritime exploration and the global expansion of European empires.
• The Louisiana purchase in the history of the US .
• The effect of colonialism on indigenous languages and cultural preservation.
• Intellectual exchanges and the birth of the Enlightenment.
• Circumcision: its history and controversy .
• The French Revolution : the role of women.
• The cultural and political legacy of the Ottoman Empire.
• Emancipation Proclamation in American history .
• Racial segregation and civil rights movements in the United States.
• The impact of the Black Death on medieval European society.
• The history of slavery: impacts on contemporary society .
• The Arab Spring : causes and consequences.
• Archaeological discoveries and understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization.
• Due process history, trespass, and privacy doctrine .
• The role of religion in medieval European art and architecture.
• Political and economic factors in the fall of the Roman Empire .
• The history of US financial and banking reforms .
• The cultural significance of samurai in feudal Japan.
• The influence of Enlightenment ideas on the American Revolution .
• Colonialism and slavery in American history .
• Social and economic transformations in the Industrial Revolution in Britain.
• The effects of European colonization on Native American cultures.
• American civil rights debate in history .
• The Mongol Empire : the rise and fall.
• Cultural exchange and interactions along the Silk Road.
• History: American dream versus reality .
• The impact of World War I on European society and politics.
• Social hierarchies and gender roles in ancient Mesopotamia.
• American political ideology throughout history .
• The intellectual and cultural movements of the Harlem Renaissance .

Forensic Psychology Dissertation Ideas

Forensic psychology intersects psychology and the criminal justice system, focusing on applying psychological principles to legal issues. Criminal psychology research helps understand criminal behavior, improve legal decisions, and enhance the assessment and treatment of offenders.

Here is a list of unique titles for a dissertation about forensic psychology:

• Accuracy and reliability of eyewitness testimony in criminal investigations.
• The American Psychological Association: forensic field .
• Development of effective offender profiles through psychological profiling.
• Predicting future dangerousness: risk assessment in forensic settings.
• The McMartin preschool case and forensic psychology .
• Factors leading to false confessions in criminal cases.
• The link between psychopathic traits and violent behavior.
• The forensic psychologist’s role in death penalty trials .
• Factors influencing juror perceptions and their decisions in trials.
• Profiling and behavior analysis in serial crimes: criminal investigative analysis.
• Forensic psychology: important issues .
• Evaluation of risk and treatment needs of juvenile offenders.
• Assessing defendants’ mental capacity to stand trial : competency evaluations.
• Experimental psychology and forensic psychology .
• Effective interventions to reduce recidivism in offender rehabilitation .
• Etiology and treatment of sexual offenses: a focus on sexual offenders.
• APA standards and forensic psychology practice .
• Enhancing eyewitness identification procedures in criminal investigations.
• Evaluation of mental state and culpability in criminal responsibility assessments.
• Careers in clinical, counseling, and forensic psychology .
• Detecting feigned mental disorders and symptom exaggeration in forensic assessment.
• The relationship between psychopathology and criminal behavior.
• Forensic psychology analysis: ethical dilemmas and principles .
• The impact of crime on victims’ psychological well-being: victimology research.
• Evaluation of interrogation techniques and ethics in police questioning.
• Correlational design in forensic psychology .
• Factors influencing accuracy and suggestibility of eyewitness memory.
• Best practices for investigative interviewing of children in legal cases.
• Applying codes and guidelines in forensic psychology .
• Psychological factors contributing to terrorism and radicalization.
• Digital evidence and offender behavior in criminal profiling for cybercrime.
• Forensic psychology: Graham v. Florida and Sullivan v. Florida .
• Evaluating suspects’ understanding of Miranda rights in forensic assessments.
• Psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder in crime victims.
• Current perspectives in forensic psychology .
• Factors influencing criminal sentencing decisions and perceptions of fairness.
• Understanding and classifying different offender typologies in forensic research.
• Forensic psychology: its history and evolution .
• Polygraph testing and physiological arousal assessments in forensic psychophysiology.
• Public safety and individual rights: forensic mental health policies and ethics.
• The role of forensic psychology in the investigation .
• Identification of high-risk individuals through psychiatric disorders and risk assessment.
• Intimate partner violence : psychological factors and interventions for victims and offenders.
• Forensic psychology for police recruitment and screening .
• Criminal investigative interviewing techniques and information elicitation strategies.

Philosophy Dissertation Topics

Philosophy is an academic discipline that critically examines fundamental questions about reality, knowledge, ethics, and the nature of existence. Researching these concepts requires rigorous analysis, argumentation, and logical reasoning.

Here is our list of philosophy dissertation topics:

• Epistemological implications of linguistic relativity in cross-cultural communication.
• Nature of reality philosophy: dualism vs. materialism .
• A phenomenological exploration of the experience of time consciousness.
• Aesthetics of postmodern architecture in urban landscapes.
• Moral philosophical views: from Plato to Nussbaum .
• The role of moral responsibility in political decisions.
• Ethics of using artificial intelligence in healthcare administration.
• Philosophy of life: major principles and problems .
• Metaphysical inquiry into the nature of consciousness and the mind-body problem.
• Epistemic justification and the limits of scientific inquiry.
• Liberalism in the new political philosophy .
• Ontological debates in the philosophy of mathematics.
• The ethical dimensions of climate change and environmental preservation.
• Free will problem in philosophy .
• Epistemology of testimony and its role in knowledge acquisition.
• Existential phenomenology and the meaning of authenticity in human experience.
• Moral philosophy: virtuous actions and obligations .
• Metaethics and the nature of moral truths and judgments.
• Philosophical perspectives on the mind-brain identity theory.
• Political philosophy: natural law and justice .
• Hermeneutics and the interpretation of religious texts.
• Pragmatic approaches to truth and the philosophy of language.
• Sentencing and its philosophical justification .
• Ethical considerations in biomedical research involving human subjects.
• Axiological analysis of the concept of beauty in art and nature.
• Philosophy: modern metaphysics and epistemology .
• Philosophical investigations into the concept of personal identity.
• Epistemological challenges of skepticism and its implications for knowledge.
• Terrorism: a philosophical investigation .
• Political philosophy and the ethics of global governance.
• Rationality and decision theory in economic contexts.
• Philosophical thought and its levels in nursing .
• Metaphysical inquiry into the nature of causation.
• Phenomenology of emotions and their role in subjective experience.
• Hellenistic philosophy and art: views on emotions .
• Philosophical perspectives on the nature of free will and determinism .
• Ethical implications of emerging biotechnologies and genetic engineering.
• The philosophy of Rogerian thought .
• Ontological debates in the philosophy of science.
• Epistemology of disagreement and its impact on knowledge acquisition.
• Immortality perception in modern philosophy .
• Aesthetics of film and the philosophical analysis of cinematic art.
• Philosophical perspectives on social justice and equality.
• John Calvin and his approach to religion and philosophy .
• Ethical considerations in the use of animal experimentation in research.

A business dissertation can cover many areas, from international business to corporate social responsibility and ethics. These topics incorporate complex issues and require in-depth research and analysis.

Here is a list of business dissertation topics:

• Cultural integration challenges of cross-border mergers and acquisitions .
• The Bulgarian market analysis for Japan Tobacco Inc .
• Crowdfunding vs. venture capital in entrepreneurial financing.
• Board diversity and firm performance in corporate governance.
• Corporate sustainability practices in business .
• Sustainable supply chain management in the food retail industry.
• Evaluating social and financial returns in impact investing.
• Intercultural business communication in Japan .
• Technological disruption: strategies for traditional retailers.
• Corporate social responsibility and stakeholder engagement in the oil and gas sector.
• Samsung and child labor: business ethics case .
• Ethical dilemmas in artificial intelligence and machine learning applications.
• Social entrepreneurship and poverty alleviation in developing countries.
• Forecasting and risk assessment in business .
• International trade agreements and business opportunities for small and medium enterprises.
• Corporate innovation strategies: open innovation vs. closed innovation.
• Human trafficking and unethical business in the US .
• Transparency and accountability in corporate social responsibility reports.
• Platform governance and fair competition on e-commerce marketplaces.
• Ethical business: essential or optional ?
• Business ethics and corporate fraud: case studies and lessons learned.
• The role of business incubators in fostering entrepreneurial success.
• Creativity in generating business ideas and innovation .
• Business administration ethics in the age of big data and privacy concerns.
• Best practices and challenges of environmental sustainability in the hospitality industry.
• Operational practices of the UAE-based businesses .
• International expansion strategies: entry modes and market selection.
• Strategic approaches and impact evaluation of corporate philanthropy.
• Family business: entrepreneurial challenges and financing .
• Correlation between entrepreneurial leadership styles and organizational performance.
• Impact of blockchain technology on supply chain efficiency and transparency.
• The fintech business: gaining trust from clients .
• Workplace diversity and inclusion: building a culture of equality.
• Socially responsible investing: integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors.
• Disaster recovery plan: business impact analysis .
• Frugal innovation: meeting the needs of emerging markets.
• Negotiation and conflict management in international joint ventures.
• China and India as business destinations .
• Balancing economic growth and environmental preservation for sustainable tourism.
• Corporate reputation management in the digital era.
• Business applications of blockchain technology .
• Social impact measurement and evaluation in nonprofit organizations.
• Intellectual property protection for technological enterprises.
• Bank of America’s e-business challenges .
• Corporate crisis management: strategies for reputation recovery.

Leadership Dissertation Topics

Leadership is the ability to guide and inspire individuals or groups to achieve a common goal. Leadership involves setting a vision, motivating others, and fostering collaboration. Research in leadership helps understand effective leadership practices, develop competent leaders, and drive organizational success. It explores various aspects of leadership, including styles, traits, behaviors, and their impact on individuals and organizations.

Here is a list of dissertation ideas about leadership:

• The role of authenticity in leadership effectiveness among top managers.
• Western State University’s insufficient leadership .
• Complex systems analysis of transformational leadership in organizations.
• The relationship between ethics and leadership effectiveness.
• Quality leadership communication in organizations .
• The mechanisms and outcomes of transformational leadership in multicultural companies.
• Cross-cultural leadership : challenges and strategies for leading diverse teams.
• Leadership within non-profit organizations .
• The relationship between servant leadership and employee outcomes.
• Navigating change and uncertainty in leadership roles using adaptive leadership .
• Leadership in culture and organizational change .
• Gender differences and stereotypes in leadership positions in the tech industry.
• The role of emotional intelligence in leadership success.
• Leadership development in organizations .
• Distributed leadership: collaboration and shared decision-making in organizations.
• The effects of leadership resilience in challenging environments.
• Leadership concepts: how to become a good leader .
• The influence of leadership on organizational culture in small and medium business.
• Challenges and strategies for leading remote teams after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Human resource management: leadership problems .
• The link between leadership styles and employee engagement.
• Leadership succession planning: developing and nurturing future organizational leaders.
• Strategic team leadership: evaluation of team members, situation and leadership approaches .
• The effects of fostering a culture of innovation through leadership practices.
• Strategies for balancing leadership roles and personal well-being through work-life balance.
• Boston Beer Company’s corporate leadership .
• Authentic followership: the role of followers in leadership.
• Methods of promoting inclusive leadership in a diverse workforce.
• Corporate leaders: the role of the global environment .
• Challenges and strategies for effective leadership in nonprofit organizations.
• Leadership approaches to conflict management in the educational setting.
• How can corporate leaders spearhead the sustainability agenda in their firms ?
• The role of instructional leadership in American schools.
• The impact of leadership on the effectiveness of a remote team.
• A corporate leader’s duties to employees .
• Strategies for leading successful change initiatives in global organizations.
• The relationship between leadership and employee wellness in the healthcare industry.
• Leadership: mission and skills .
• Adapting leadership styles to cultural contexts in global organizations.
• The role of leadership in effective decision-making processes in public corporations.
• Narcissism in organizational leadership .
• Best practices of promoting a learning culture through educational leadership.
• The effects of leadership on employee retention.
• Power and ethics in organizational leadership.
• Effective leadership strategies for crisis management.

Dissertation Topics in Management

Management , both professionally and academically, involves systematic coordination and organization of resources, people, and processes. It encompasses planning, organizing, leading, and controlling activities. Management also emphasizes effective decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. The field explores theories, practices, and techniques to optimize productivity, innovation, and sustainable business success.

Here is a list of management dissertation topics:

• A cross-cultural perspective on management techniques in multinational corporations.
• Uncertain business environment: managers’ responsibility and skills .
• Organizational ambidexterity phenomenon: exploration and exploitation.
• Social network analysis and its applications in organizational leadership.
• The Purple Cloud firm’s managerial transformation.
• Dynamic capabilities and strategic agility in turbulent business environments.
• Knowledge transfer mechanisms in inter-firm alliances: a comparative study.
• The managerial duties in business .
• Ethical decision-making frameworks in complex organizational contexts.
• Technological innovation and absorptive capacity: a resource-based view analysis.
• The key qualities that make a good manager .
• Talent retention strategies for high-potential employees in knowledge-intensive industries.
• Strategic human resource management in mergers and acquisitions.
• Sexual harassment education for managers .
• Managing organizational resilience: a multi-level analysis of antecedents and outcomes.
• Corporate entrepreneurship and its impact on firm performance: a meta-analysis.
• Managerial decision-making: focus on risk and rationality .
• The role of emotional intelligence in authentic leadership behavior.
• Best practices of sustainable supply chain management.
• Workers’ performance issues: problems at home and a manager’s response to them .
• Organizational learning processes and knowledge creation in dynamic environments.
• Strategic brand management: building and leveraging brand equity.
• Employees’ motivation: a manager’s challenge .
• Cross-cultural negotiation strategies and their effectiveness in global business contexts.
• Strategic decision-making under uncertainty: a behavioral perspective.
• Case study: important business and managerial problems .
• Organizational trust and its influence on inter-organizational collaboration.
• Employee well-being and its effects on organizational productivity and performance.
• Customer mix and managerial decision-making.
• The impact of supply chain management on organizational performance and efficiency.
• Dynamic pricing strategies in the digital marketplace: a game-theoretic approach.
• Women minorities in business management .
• Corporate governance mechanisms and their role in mitigating agency conflicts.
• Strategic knowledge management for enhancing organizational innovation capabilities.
• The Myers-Briggs personality test in the business management environment .
• The impact of social media on customer relationship management practices.
• Strategic alliances and value creation: an integrative framework for performance assessment.
• The marginal productivity of labor in business management .
• Corporate reputation management in social media: strategies and challenges.
• Cross-functional team dynamics and their impact on project success.
• Technological changes in business management .
• Entrepreneurial orientation and new venture performance: a longitudinal analysis.
• The role of strategic foresight and innovation in managing disruptive technologies.

Accounting Dissertation Topics

Accounting research is essential for advancing financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting practices. It provides insights into the effectiveness of accounting systems and regulatory frameworks.

Check out these accounting dissertation topic ideas:

• The role of accounting information in corporate governance mechanisms.
• Strategic accounting: capital asset pricing model .
• Financial reporting quality and its impact on investment decisions.
• The effects of international accounting standards on financial reporting comparability.
• The Sarbanes-Oxley Act and its contribution to accounting .
• Accounting for sustainability: measuring and reporting environmental and social impact.
• The role of accounting in detecting and preventing corporate fraud.
• Non-compliance effects in accounting .
• Behavioral aspects of public financial reporting in corporations.
• The use of big data analytics for auditing and assurance services.
• Historical exchange rates in accounting practices.
• The impact of intellectual capital reporting on firm performance.
• Corporate social responsibility reporting: stakeholder perceptions.
• Governmental accounting: funds and their purposes .
• The role of accounting in the valuation of intangible assets.
• The effects of financial disclosure transparency on capital market efficiency.
• Explaining the expectations gap between accounting students and professionals .
• Challenges of accounting for business combinations and mergers.
• The role of accounting in assessing and managing business risks.
• Artificial intelligence implementation in accounting processes .
• Fair value accounting: effects on financial reporting quality.
• Accounting conservatism: conceptual underpinnings and economic consequences.
• Advantages of using accrual accounting instead of cash accounting .
• The quality of accounting information in corporate governance mechanisms.
• The role of accounting in earnings management and manipulation.
• Accounting: the effect of inventory errors .
• Sustainability accounting and reporting in integrated reporting.
• The use of digitalization on accounting systems and practices.
• Accounting: methods for allocating overheads .
• The role of accounting in the assessment and management of cybersecurity risks.
• Managerial accounting : behavioral and cognitive perspectives.
• Accounting transactions’ effect on financial statements .
• The effects of accounting regulations on earnings management practices.
• Accounting for income taxes: complexities and implications for financial reporting.
• Accrual and cash basis accounting: comparative analysis .
• The role of accounting in the evaluation and implementation of corporate governance reforms.
• The impact of accounting information on the cost of capital.
• Accounting terminology in modern media .
• Accounting for financial instruments: measurement, recognition, and disclosure challenges.
• The role of forensic accounting in detecting and investigating financial fraud.
• Generally accepted accounting principles in healthcare .
• The effects of cultural and institutional factors on accounting practices and disclosure.
• The implications of corporate sustainability reporting for stakeholder engagement.
• Standard costing as an effective accounting tool .
• Accounting education and curriculum development: Innovations and challenges.

Marketing Dissertation Topics

Marketing is an industry focused on creating, communicating, and delivering customer value. Research is crucial in understanding consumer needs, preferences, and market trends. It helps identify target audiences, develop effective strategies, and evaluate campaign effectiveness.

Use our selection of marketing topics for your dissertation:

• The effects of personalized marketing on consumer perceptions and behaviors.
• Marketing and advertising in online communities .
• Neuromarketing: exploring the subconscious influences on consumer choices.
• Market segmentation and targeting strategies for niche markets.
• Marketing management in the UK motor industry .
• Consumer behavior in the digital age: understanding online purchasing decisions.
• The role of emotions in consumer’s purchase decisions.
• Social media as educational technology among marketing educators .
• Brand equity and its impact on consumer preferences and loyalty.
• The impact of social media marketing on brand image and reputation.
• Email marketing: common errors and solutions .
• Cross-cultural marketing : adapting strategies for diverse consumer segments.
• The role of customer engagement in building brand communities.
• Change management and technologies in marketing .
• The effects of influencer marketing on consumer attitudes and purchase intentions.
• Marketing analytics and data-driven decisions in the big data era.
• Advertising effectiveness in international marketing .
• The impact of cause-related marketing on brand perception and consumer behavior.
• The role of sensory marketing in shaping consumer perceptions and preferences.
• Ambush marketing and Olympic Games sponsors .
• Relationship marketing and customer retention strategies in B2B contexts.
• Digital marketing effectiveness: measurement and optimization strategies.
• Business start-up challenges and niche marketing .
• The effects of green marketing on consumer attitudes and purchase behavior.
• Pricing strategies and their influence on consumer perceptions and willingness to pay.
• Alcohol marketing failures and successes .
• Innovation and new product development in competitive markets.
• The role of social influence in shaping consumer opinions and behaviors.
• Microsoft Company’s marketing ethics .
• Experiential marketing and its impact on brand experience and customer satisfaction.
• Relationship between marketing communication and brand storytelling.
• Responsibility and brand advertising in the alcoholic beverage market .
• The effects of cross-channel marketing on consumer engagement.
• Customer value co-creation and co-production in service marketing .
• Patriarchal domination and aggressive misogyny in advertising .
• The role of social networks in shaping consumer opinions and purchase decisions.
• Marketing strategies for emerging markets: challenges and opportunities.
• Measuring public relations and advertising efforts .
• Brand alliances and co-branding strategies: brand equity.
• The impact of AI on marketing strategies and customer experiences.
• Creating an advertising website for a jewelry company .
• Online consumer reviews and their influence on purchase decisions.
• The role of customer experience management in customer loyalty and advocacy.
• Social media marketing: the end user’s attention and factors affecting the popularity of brand posts .
• Marketing ethics and corporate social responsibility: balancing profit and societal impact.

Research in the field of education is crucial for improving educational practices. It helps address academic challenges and enhance our understanding of teaching and learning. It also shapes policies, informs instructional strategies, and promotes equal opportunities.

Here is a list of thesis and dissertation ideas about education:

• Enhancing equity in the classroom using culturally responsive pedagogy.
• Education for positive youth sports experiences .
• Education policy analysis: examining the impact of policy reforms.
• Practical strategies for improving instructional practices.
• Teaching and learning in multicultural schools .
• Best practices for enhancing student motivation and engagement.
• Early childhood education : promoting school readiness and academic success.
• Teaching teens with a major depressive disorder .
• Impact of critical pedagogy on students’ critical thinking and reflection.
• The effects of technology integration in education on learning outcomes.
• Teaching strategies in a classroom and virtual setting .
• Supporting language learners for literacy development in multilingual contexts.
• The role of parental involvement and engagement in education.
• Use of PowerPoint presentations in a learning process .
• Education assessment and evaluation: accountability and informing instruction.
• Impact of teacher-student relationships on academic achievements.
• Technology use in early education programs .
• Social-emotional learning : promoting well-being and emotional intelligence.
• Critical race theory in education: the role of race and racism in schools.
• Servant leadership in early childhood education .
• Barriers to postsecondary education faced by minorities.
• Integrating environmental education across the curriculum.
• Integrating cultural beliefs into early childhood education .
• Implications for teaching and learning using artificial intelligence.
• The impact of global trends on education systems.
• Math anxiety effects on children with a learning disability .
• Critical media literacy in education: media influence and misinformation.
• Promoting social harmony and global understanding for peace and conflict resolution.
• Learning activities for early language skills .
• Education and career readiness: the gap between education and employment.

Dissertation Topics in Higher Education

Higher education fosters intellectual growth, produces knowledgeable graduates, and drives innovation. You can study the complexities of educational systems, policies, and practices in your dissertation. These topics require analysis and critical examination to contribute to the field.

Here is a list of dissertation topics about higher education:

• The impact of online learning on student engagement and performance.
• Higher education: benefits of having a degree .
• Faculty diversity and inclusion in higher education institutions.
• Higher education financing models: challenges and innovations.
• Challenges of cloud computing in higher education .
• The effects of community colleges on workforce development.
• The impact of student loan debt on post-graduate life.
• African American women and higher education barriers .
• Liberal arts education : its role in preparing future professionals.
• Governance and decision-making processes in higher education institutions.
• Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in higher education .
• The impact of accreditation on institutional quality and accountability.
• STEM education and workforce development in higher education.
• The use of social media by college students .
• Assessment of the effectiveness of student success initiatives.
• The effects of using technology in student support services.
• Racial and gender macroaggression in the white college campus .
• The impact of international student experiences on higher education institutions.
• The importance of rankings in higher education institutions.
• Note-taking styles of college students .
• The effects of globalization on higher education systems.
• First-generation college students: experiences and support systems.
• Why do college students drop out of school ?
• The role of alumni engagement in advancing higher education institutions.
• The impact of college-ready programs on student success.
• College affordability in the United States .
• The ethics of using learning analytics in higher education.
• University-industry partnerships: the quality of collaboration.
• Cyberbullying among university students .
• The role of Bachelor’s higher education in economic development in the USA.

Dissertation Topics in Special Education

Special education is a field dedicated to providing instruction and support to students with different learning needs and disabilities. It aims to promote their academic, social, and emotional development with equal opportunities. This research field implies deep exploration and analysis to improve educational practices and outcomes.

Take a look at these dissertation topics about special education:

• Individualized education programs (IEPs): effectiveness and implementation challenges.
• A special education plan: grade 1 male student with ADHD .
• The efficiency of Response to Intervention (RTI) models in the USA.
• Transition services for students with disabilities in life after high school.
• African-Americans in public school special education programs .
• Best practices of using assistive technology in special education.
• The role of early intervention programs for children with developmental delays.
• Strategies for addressing individual needs in special education .
• Behavior management strategies for students with emotional and behavioral disorders.
• Autism spectrum disorders : educational approaches and interventions.
• Parental engagement in special education .
• Transition planning for postsecondary education and employment for students with intellectual disabilities.
• Applying universal design for learning (UDL) in special education.
• General & special education teacher collaboration .
• Reading instruction for students with dyslexia : evidence-based practices.
• Social skills training for students with autism to improve peer interaction.
• Diversity group: special education placement trends .
• Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for nonverbal students.
• Mathematics instruction for students with learning disabilities.
• Exclusion of students with learning disabilities .
• Best trauma-informed practices in special education.
• Behavioral interventions for students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• Effective strategies for students with learning disabilities .
• Models of collaboration between general education and special education teachers.
• Executive functioning skills training for students with learning disabilities.
• Education for students with autism in Saudi Arabia .
• Benefits and challenges of co-teaching models in special education.
• The efficiency of visual supports for students with autism.
• Teaching communication skills for students with autism .
• School-based interventions and support of mental health needs of students with disabilities.

Let’s have a break and see how to choose a compelling thesis topic.

• Determine your area of interest. Think about things you’re passionate about or problems you want to explore. This will help narrow down your focus and identify potential topics.
• Explore the literature. Look for recent articles or research papers in your field to better understand the topics that are the most relevant now.
• Brainstorm ideas. Write down any topic ideas that come to your mind, even if they make little sense. The more topics you generate, the higher the chances you find the perfect one.
• Refine your ideas. Revise your topic ideas and check if they’re manageable. Ensure you have the skills, time, and equipment necessary to conduct your research.
• Consult your thesis supervisor. You might want to talk to your advisor or peers to get feedback and insights into your topic.

For your inspiration, we collected the top thesis topics in different areas. However, if you want to create a unique title for your paper, check out our free online thesis topic generator .

Criminal Justice Thesis Topics

Writing a criminal justice thesis might be challenging because this assignment requires profound research and solid arguments. This is why it’s essential to choose a topic that will spark your interest and inspire you throughout all the writing stages.

Consider our criminal justice essay topics:

• The significance of eyewitness evidence .
• Veterans in the criminal justice system .
• The leading causes of college violence.
• The history of crime theories and their evaluation.
• Transgender offenders in the criminal justice system .
• The connection between IQ and crime rates.
• The importance of detecting stalking characteristics.
• The successes and failures in reforming punishment in the criminal justice system .
• Technological developments in experimental criminology.
• The problem of human rights abuse during armed conflict.
• The problem of inequality in criminal justice .
• The relationship between mental illness and criminal behavior.
• Gender and African American bias in the investigation.
• The importance of community relationships in the administration of a criminal justice organization .
• The role of forensic science in contemporary criminal justice.
• The current issues that law enforcement must address.
• The criminal justice service violations and ethical issues .
• The advantages and disadvantages of racial profiling.
• Stress management techniques among police officers.
• The criminal justice reform and racial issues .
• The possible ways of preventing cyberstalking and cyberbullying.
• The impact of political corruption on today’s criminology.
• The sex crime: influence of childhood experiences .
• The connection between terrorism and organized crime .
• The significance of the witness protection program.
• Public corruption in the field of criminal justice .
• The function of distributive justice in criminal justice.
• The history of forgery in workplaces and government agencies.
• The problem of Hispanic interracial crimes .
• Crimes propaganda in modern culture.
• The advantages and disadvantages of private prisons .
• The effects of hate crime law on democracy .
• Crime prevention measures in residential areas.
• The significance of DNA samples in criminal investigation.
• Studying white collar crimes relative to other crimes .
• The role of public defenders, prosecutors, and law enforcement.
• The connection between education level and crime rates.
• Arms smuggling as a form of transitional organized crime .
• The history and evaluation of international law.
• Possible ways of preventing child abuse .
• Crimes in intimate relationships .
• Criminological view on environmental crimes.
• Types of corporate crimes and how to reduce them.
• Community policing: the alternative solution to youth crime .
• The impact of childhood experiences on adult crime rates.

Political Science Thesis Topics

Political science topics might be among the most controversial ones. However, this is why writing a political science thesis is so exciting. Check out our top political science titles for your inspiration!

• The comparison of Marxism and liberalism and their influence on today’s politics.
• Women and political leadership in America .
• The comparison of presidential and parliamentary democracy.
• The impact of feminism on political theory throughout history.
• Ecuadorian politics after 1972 .
• An examination of the role of religion in political theory.
• The role of the US in the Global War on Terrorism .
• Tax cuts in America: are they good ?
• The concept of the common good in political philosophy.
• The comparison of ancient democracy and the democracy of today.
• Political polarization as to the US healthcare reform .
• The effects of ethnic and religious diversity on political stability and democracy.
• The factors that contribute to effective democratization in authoritarian regimes.
• Power of terror as a political weapon .
• The impact of Brexit on the political relationship between the UK and the European Union.
• The impact of the American Civil War on modern governments.
• Comparative political science: NATO membership .
• Analysis of the difference between political and armed conflict.
• An overview of wartime negotiation methods.
• Has there been a generational switch-off from politics ?
• The impact of globalization on political institutions and processes.
• The perception of the Black Lives Matter movement across the political sector.
• Political ecologies of electronic waste: does it really make a difference ?
• The changes that should be made to the US Constitution.
• The evaluation of anti-corruption measures in global politics.
• Colombian civil war’s political and economic reasons .
• The comparison of collectivism and individualism.
• The leading causes of immigration around the world.
• Exploring the causes of political violence events: the Zapatista uprising .
• A comparative analysis of the effectiveness of diplomacy and military force.
• The role of social media within the public administration system.
• Public opinion as a part of American politics .
• The comparison of nationalism to other philosophies.
• The problem of the biased depiction of female politicians in mass media.
• Political and social dimensions of global migration .
• American elections and the use of propaganda to achieve the result needed.
• Democratic ideas that shape the world today.
• Political culture: failure of democracy in Iraq .
• The causes behind the problem of illegal immigrants in Mexico.
• The political similarities and differences between the United States and Russia.
• Psycho-political terrorism and its main principles .
• Racism and its impact on modern politics.
• Social media and its role in shaping modern politics.
• Mexican immigration as a political controversy .
• How is power balanced among institutions of authority in the US?

Sociology Thesis Topics

Sociological topics deal with various disciplines, including economics, history, geography, and psychology. You’ll definitely find the topic that will spark your interest.

Have a look at our list of top sociology thesis topics:

• How has COVID-19 permanently changed daily social interactions?
• Sociology of diversity in the US .
• The effects of social media’s cancel culture on today’s society.
• The gender pay gap and its impact on women.
• Social issues: digital divide in Washington .
• Challenges that multicultural children face in America and possible solutions.
• The influence of social media on mental health.
• Homelessness as a social issue in California .
• How do family caregivers assist older adults with age-related diseases?
• The cycle of violence : the long-lasting effects of domestic violence on children.
• Social issues surrounding cybercrime .
• The role of the US government in the national healthcare system.
• The benefits and possible dangers of feminism to society.
• Egyptian revolution: macrosociological perspective .
• Overpopulation in China and one-child-per-family policy.
• The comparison of elite culture and popular culture.
• College dropouts from a sociological standpoint .
• Preemptive measures against domestic violence in the neighborhood.
• Efforts to eradicate bullying in workplaces.
• Video games and violence in the society with reference to the sociological theories .
• History and current issues of the US immigration policy.
• Methods of conflict resolution in a family.
• New consumerism in American society .
• How social media reinforces patriarchy in society.
• The underlying factors for social anxiety in teenagers.
• Violence on TV and violence in society: connection .
• How does a community contribute to shaping a person’s identity?
• The similarities and differences between the Millennials and Generation Z.
• Women’s dignity in Hong Kong’s church and society .
• The significance of family therapy in resolving family conflicts.
• The influence of peer pressure on a child’s lifestyle.
• Homosexuality as percieved in American society .
• The main factors of unemployment in modern society.
• Superstitious beliefs that have their foundation in real-life.
• The effect of blind conformity on society .
• How does social media misrepresent the minority?
• The relationship between advertising and unhealthy eating habits .
• Impact of influencers on American society .
• The comparison of 20th-century parenthood and 21st-century parenthood.
• The effects of family conflicts on young people’s academic performance.
• Same-sex marriages and their benefits for society .
• Methods for managing the problem of bullying at school .
• Advantages and disadvantages of having an extended family.
• Social inclusion in Canadian society .
• The representation of Asian ethnicity and harmful stereotypes.
• Gender differences in verbal and non-verbal communication.
• The problem of homeless children in society .
• The comparison of homeschooling and physical learning.
• How single-sex education affects children’s socialization.
• Obedience to authority in society .
• The positive and negative aspects of consumerism.
• What are the effects of physical appearance in various social situations?
• French hijab ban and its effects on society .
• The relation between social media usage and depression in young people.
• Main factors that contribute to an abusive marriage.
• Gender roles within Greek society .
• The history of eating habits in different nations.
• The effects of cross-racial adoption on children and society.
• Women’s vs. men’s privileges in today’s society .
• Ways of overcoming the stigma against mental disorders.

Nursing Thesis Topics

There are many different aspects to investigate within the nursing profession, from communication with patience to the phenomenon of nurse burnout . If you want to gain more insight into nursing, here are some excellent thesis topic ideas:

• The impact of workplace stress on nurse performance and well-being.
• Professional burnout reasons in nursing .
• The role of nurse-patient communication in managing post-operative patient pain.
• The role of nurses in promoting recovery in mental health patients.
• Evolving practice of nursing and patient care models .
• New approaches to nursing in the 21st century.
• How is artificial intelligence used in nursing education?
• Transitional nursing implementation in oncology .
• Exploring the ethical aspects of euthanasia.
• Common misconceptions nurses have about evidence-based practices.
• A gap between nursing education and practice .
• The comparison of medicated and non-medicated post-surgery pain management.
• How to prevent emergency nurse burnout and reduce stress?
• Making moral and ethical decisions in nursing .
• Factors that define a successful collaboration between nurses, patients, and relatives.
• The history of nursing and its role in the health care industry.
• Telenursing: nursing practice in cyberspace .
• The developments in childhood cancer treatment.
• The effectiveness of pet therapy for mental health treatment.
• Nursing shortage and approaches to employee turnover .
• The most effective methods of breast cancer prevention .
• A correlation between mental health and physical well-being.
• Transcultural nursing and Hispanic patients’ outcomes .
• Ways of improving women’s health among immigrants.
• Women’s health nursing and postpartum stress.
• Work-related stress management in professional nurses .
• Ethical issues in nursing of elderly patients with mental diseases.
• The effects of social media on children’s eating habits.
• Hiring male nurses: evidence-based practice .
• Nursing and medical treatment of homeless people.
• The most innovative treatments for sleeping disorders.
• Factors of powerlessness feelings among nurses .
• The comparison of alternative and complementary therapy.
• The effects of second-hand smoke inhalation in a child’s early years.
• Nurse education comparison in Poland and Jordan .
• How do nurses address psychological issues in children with physical disabilities?
• The benefits of collaborative nursing.
• Nurses’ work-life balance and patient safety .
• Ethical issues of data collection in adult health care.
• The connection between screen time and ADHD.
• Cultural competence in a nurse’s work .
• The importance of family engagement in primary healthcare.
• How can nurses help stroke patients regain their motor functions?
• Patient threats of medical and nursing errors .
• Advantages and disadvantages of nursing uniform code rules.
• The phenomenon of remote care and the future of nursing.
• Clinical problem: suicide prevention in geriatric patients .
• The primary causes of a heart attack and possible prevention.
• The effectiveness of the application of massage therapy.
• Chronic kidney disease patients: pain management .
• The effect of age on the immune system and nervous system.
• Advantages and disadvantages of medical services at patients’ homes.
• Nurse-led practice in a patient-centered medical home .
• The comparison of private and public healthcare systems.
• The significance of creating strong nursing communities.
• The most acute problems with patients with diabetes .
• The most necessary skills for the nursing profession.
• How can nurses enhance patient flow in the emergency department?
• Fall prevention techniques and patient exercises .
• The efficiency of emergency medical care during traffic accidents.

Psychology Thesis Topics

Some people write psychology thesis out of pure interest, while others try to understand their own mental health better. No matter what your goal is, this list of hot psychological topics can bring you more food for thought:

• The effects of racial stereotypes on an individual’s mental health.
• Compulsive buying in women: psychological research .
• Investigating the relation between depression and social media usage.
• The long-lasting effects of childhood trauma on adult behavior.
• Elderly falls reduction: psychological training .
• How do sleep disorders affect mental health?
• The psychological impact of media consumption on children.
• Psychological distress in healthy first-time mothers .
• Symptoms, causes, and treatment of ADHD.
• Social factors that trigger panic attacks in college.
• Emotional contagion in Facebook: psychological research .
• The influence of social media on teenagers’ self-esteem.
• The effects of childhood trauma on criminal behavior.
• Psychology of difficult choices on a daily basis .
• The impact of early childhood experiences on brain development.
• The role of daily stress in memory formation.
• Childbearing and psychological well-being .
• How does divorce affect the emotional development of a child?
• Different ways to recover memory loss.
• Developmental psychology: aggression between parents .
• The influence of a narcissistic parent on the mental well-being of a child.
• Understanding social situations that lead to suicidal behavior.
• The psychological effects of violent media on children .
• The impact of anxiety disorder on students’ academic performance.
• Investigating the effects of postpartum depression on mother and child.
• Stigma among mentally challenged individuals .
• The role of different phobias in personality development.
• The connection between the self-presentation of online profiles and the person’s self-esteem.
• Postpartum depression as a serious mental health problem .
• The benefits and dangers of self-help literature.
• The leading causes of emotional eating during stress.
• Fad diets and their dangers for mental health .
• The effects of caffeine intake on mood and cognitive abilities.
• Underlying psychological factors of anorexia.
• Mindfulness-based music therapy and mental health .
• The contribution of video games to violent behavior in children.
• The impact of the emotional climate of the classroom on student motivation.
• Mental health of children of incarcerated parents .
• The correlation between high levels of artistic ability and mental disorders.
• Psychological effects of cyberbullying vs. physical bullying.
• Mental health and ADHD in universities .
• The relationship between depression and anxiety from the perspective of student academic performance.
• Childhood trauma and its long-lasting impact on individuals in adulthood.
• Childhood psychological trauma: rape .
• What is student burnout, and how to deal with it?
• The effects of Tik Tok on self-esteem and social comparison among young adults.
• Defense mechanisms in psychological practice .
• The impact of group belonging on an individual’s behavior.
• The physiology and neurobiology of lucid dreaming.
• Psychological traits in consumer behavior .
• Psychological changes associated with old age.
• The effects of ignoring a child’s emotional needs on adult life.
• Human trafficking and its psychological impacts .
• The role of psychology in managing eating disorders.
• Importance of strategies to generate learning motivation in students.
• Psychological contract between the employer and the employee .
• Managing chronic pain through meditation and breathing techniques.
• Similarities and differences of midlife crisis in men and women.
• Technostress: its harm to psychological well-being and ways to reduce it .
• Top social factors and endangering mental health in the US population.

Art Thesis Ideas

Art is a never-ending source of inspiration, which explains why so many students choose to write an art thesis. Check out our top art topic ideas that will help you write an outstanding paper:

• Directions and the main features of modern art in Europe.
• The art of Mesoamerica .
• The tole of costumes in Early Italian Renaissance in 1420-1490.
• Francisco Goya and his famous Black Paintings.
• Graphic design in postmodern art .
• Andy Warhol’s works and influence on world culture.
• The artistic peculiarities of the English portrait of the 18th century.
• Ancient Greek tradition and its influence on modern art .
• The effects of technologies on modern art and the role of an artist.
• History and techniques used for printmaking throughout the decades.
• Weimar culture through escapism in modern art .
• Christain symbols in Renaissance art.
• The analysis of Biblical motives in Leonardo da Vinci’s early works.
• Photography’s effects on modern art .
• The significance of sculptures in Ancient Greece.
• The female beauty standards in Renaissance art.
• African culture and non-Western modern art .
• Mikhail Lomonosov’s contributions to literature, education, and science.
• How is Vincent van Gogh’s mental illness reflected in his self-portraits?
• Interpretation of supernatural representation in modern art and media .
• Frida Kahlo and her inspiration: the nature and Mexican artifacts.
• The comparison analysis of Baroque and Rococo designs.
• Major contemporary and modern art movements .
• The influence of feminism on art throughout the decades.
• How the standards of Victorian beauty were reflected in art.
• Artistic change in sculpture during prehistory .
• The comparison of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism art.
• Kazimir Malevich’s role in the development of abstract art.
• Artistic representation of society in Amat’s paintings .
• The world-famous conceptual artworks and what makes them special.
• The connection between art therapy and mental health.
• Pornography vs. artistic nude photographs .
• Reasons why some artists see AI-generated art as a threat.
• How globalization affects the development of contemporary art.
• Pop art and modern technology in artworks .
• The role of aesthetics in designing today’s functional buildings.
• The evolution of nudity in artworks.
• Understanding Frida Kahlo’s artworks .
• What art tells us about the culture and lifestyle of prehistoric humans.
• The cultural significance of Japanese calligraphy.
• Freedom of expression in artworks .
• Modern art as one of the tools for activism.
• The relevance of medieval art in contemporary culture.
• Life and eternity through the prism of artworks .
• The role of art and an artist in today’s society.

Computer Science Thesis Topics

Ideas for a thesis on computer science can be found everywhere since most aspects of our lives are linked to technology. Here are some strong and researchable topics that you might be interested in:

• The difference between VR and AR and their applications.
• Qualitative and quantitative research in computer science .
• The benefits and dangers and virtual reality in education .
• How did the Covid-19 pandemic influence the advancements in computer science?
• E-commerce in computer science area .
• How is nanotechnology used in medicine and patient administration?
• The difference and similarities between deep learning and machine learning.
• Computer intelligence tested with human tests .
• Ethical issues of DNA cloning and a southern blot .
• The impact of big data on how small businesses conduct market research.
• Web-based systems and computer services .
• The comparison of programming languages and why it’s impossible to make a universal one.
• The evolution of computers and how they will change in 10 years.
• Computer network design for a graphic arts company .
• The use of CGI technologies in big-budget Hollywood film production.
• How does the use of technologies in the classroom impact students’ academic performance?
• Brain-computer interfaces and their applications .
• The importance of limiting the amount of time we spend on social media.
• The differences and similarities between math modeling and art.
• Computer ethics and privacy .
• The main benefits of using open-source software.
• How has the 5-G network generation changed today’s communication?
• Things that a computer cannot do regardless of time .
• The significance of advanced web design technology for visually impaired users.
• The benefits and threats of using smart home technology.
• The growth and development of computer crimes .
• The most secure ways of protecting your online identity and reputation.
• The use of Python programming language in modern technologies.
• Ways of designing human-computer interaction .
• The advantages and disadvantages of computer-assisted coding.
• How does computer modernization at the office affect productivity?
• Intrusion detection in computer network .
• The technologies behind self-driving cars.
• Understanding search engine algorithms on the example of Google.
• The Turing test: can a computer pass for a human ?
• Effective ways of managing data mining in public computer systems.
• The significance of microchips in tracing lost pets.
• Computer security: preventing ransomware attacks .
• How can data mining help fight against crimes?
• The role of experimentation in computer science.
• Computer technologies in fashion industry .
• How will augmented reality change the customer shopping experience?
• A brief history of Python programming language and modern applications.
• Computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software .
• The main problems in the robotics industry.

Architecture Thesis Topics

If you’re looking for architecture thesis topics for college or university, you’re in the right place. Below you’ll find great topic ideas on modern architecture, landscape design, and challenges of the architect’s profession:

• The significance of architectural design in religion.
• Modernism in architecture: Mies van der Rohe .
• The impact of eco-friendly constructions on improving the environment.
• The role of waste management in building construction.
• Teaching architecture and freehand drawing .
• How to cut down the structural carbon footprint?
• Green technology application in modern architecture.
• Architectural analysis of buildings in Historic Ocala .
• The history of architecture: how did Roman architecture influence the contemporary construction era?
• Comparing architectural technologies used in the Roman Age and the present day.
• Socio-cultural aspects of Chinese architecture .
• Comparing the costs of constructing high-rise buildings in Europe and the US.
• Common problems in modern building architecture.
• Sustainable architecture: benefits and drawbacks .
• Architectural solutions to transport issues in Mumbai.
• Latest trends in the design of exhibition spaces.
• Architecture and spatial relations in the Zulu culture .
• Common problems experienced by designers when modeling skyscrapers.
• How culture can be integrated into architectural plans.
• Intellectual property law in architecture and design .
• The significance of color and light in an interior design.
• Architectural solutions to making the landscape more suitable for people with disabilities.
• The emergence of Rococo art and architecture .
• How 3D technology changed the art of building.
• The role of multicultural architecture in the urban landscape.
• Gothic architecture in comparison to other styles .
• Possible solutions to metal fatigue in skyscrapers.
• Maximizing small spaces in residential building construction: best strategies.
• The impact of Greek architecture on modern constructors .
• Famous architects in history and how they impacted the industry.
• Best urban planning practices to optimize the safety of public spaces.
• Exploring popular culture in architecture .
• Modern trends in environmental technology and how they affect the construction of residential areas.
• The features of architecture in urban areas of the United States.
• The architectural value of Monticello .
• The problem of the lack of national building codes in many developing countries.
• Bamboo architecture: strength and function.
• Modern urban architecture: the standard box buildings .
• The impact of the Great Depression on American architecture.
• Ways of using landscape to make architecture self-sustainable.
• Enslaved workers’ contribution to the architectural heritage of Washington .
• Differences in designing houses in cold climates and warm climates.
• The phenomenon of middle-class architecture and its place in today’s society.
• Architecture’s role in the Nazi regime and its programs .
• The main principles of child-friendly landscapes.

Biology Thesis Topics

Biology is also known as the science of life, and there are a lot of aspects you can investigate in your thesis. Check out our top biology thesis topics to get insights into research areas and fields in biology:

• The main functions of immune system agents.
• The biological effects of sleep stages .
• The biological basis of different psychological disorders.
• The origin of oxytocin science and its most recent developments.
• The biological basis of eating behavior .
• Hormonal changes and female anatomy throughout life.
• The health risks associated with donating stem cells.
• Neurobiology: epigenetics in cocaine addiction .
• The metabolism of the plants and how they produce hormones without an endocrine system.
• The future of cell tissue engineering.
• Micrococcus luteus under microbiological analysis .
• The ethical issues surrounding cloning.
• Theoretical foundations for humankind’s origins.
• Environmental biology: green energy .
• The connection between brain size and human intelligence.
• Darwin’s theory of evolution: the role of natural selection.
• Neurobiology of MDMA abuse .
• Development and manufacture of transgenic products.
• Proteins: chemical composition and significance for the human body.
• Childhood development from a biological perspective .
• The impact of smoking and alcohol abuse by parents on the embryonic development of a child.
• The long-term health effects of COVID-19.
• Biological strategies for studying schizophrenia .
• The role of micro and macroelements in the structure of living matter.
• The connection between stress and our immune system’s performance.
• Biological patents: copyright issues .
• How do microbes contribute to the whole ecosystem?
• Understanding bones: what information osteologists can gather.
• Cancer biology: oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes .
• The effects of cancer on the body’s cell growth.
• The biggest threats to marine biodiversity and how it can be protected.
• Biotechnology: impact on biological warfare and biodefense .
• Biological reasons why men are more likely to be colorblind than women.
• How do homeotic genes influence the development of body structures?
• Introversion and extraversion: biological basis .
• The main factors that encourage human population growth.
• Biological factors that affect the degree of happiness.
• Bacterial cells and chemotherapeutic drugs .
• The role of biology in contemporary criminal justice.
• Recent advances in bioinformatics and computational biology.
• Adipose stem cells for tissue regeneration .
• The benefits and dangers of vaccines to prevent diseases.
• The latest findings on the origin and spread of COVID-19.
• Stem cell research for the cure of cerebral palsy .
• The impact of climate change on biodiversity.

MBA Thesis Topics

Good MBA thesis topics include business ethics, corporate responsibility, social media marketing, and the mediation of business conflicts. However, the best business topic will be the one that inspires you. Consider our excellent business thesis topic ideas to focus on:

• The role of sustainable business practices in a company’s financial performance.
• Mixed business strategy: outside-in and inside-out approaches .
• Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on global supply chain management.
• Effective leadership styles for family-owned organizations.
• Leadership role in shaping organizational culture .
• The benefits of LMS software for small businesses.
• The significance of storytelling in marketing campaigns.
• Organizational behavior: issues of personnel management .
• The effects of online communication tools on team productivity.
• How did COVID-19 change consumer buying behavior?
• Transparency and organizational performance .
• The benefits of gamification for employee training.
• How is artificial intelligence used in human resource practices?
• Budgeting impact on organizational behavior .
• The benefits of corporate social responsibilities in a workplace.
• Technological solutions to reducing workplace stress .
• Organizational requirements for a dynamic work environment .
• Effectiveness of various leadership styles in different industries.
• The significance of digital marketing for nonprofit organizations.
• Decision-making in organizational management .
• How does corporate social responsibility affect a company’s reputation and financial performance?
• The significance of time management in an organization.
• Corporate social responsibility for attracting consumers .
• The benefits of applying blockchain technology in logistics and transportation.
• How do cultural differences influence international business negotiations?
• The use of crowdfunding as an alternative way to finance small businesses .
• The impact of organizational culture on employee performance and engagement.
• The significance of project management in driving organizational success.
• E-commerce and digital technology for small businesses .
• The impact of data analytics on organizational decision-making and performance.
• Strategies to encourage women leadership in organizations.
• Issues affecting small business .
• The role of communication in promoting a healthy and inclusive work environment.
• The effects of globalization on the corporate culture.
• The relevance of organizational culture model in SMEs .
• The challenges of organization expansions to different countries.
• How do different management styles influence decision-making?
• Challenges in the implementation of competitive strategies .
• The best measures applied by local companies to survive the competition.
• Impact of gender bias on the employee’s performance.
• Technology in competitive advantage management.
• How do stakeholders influence business success?
• How do Black Friday sales affect the economy?
• How does an effective supply chain promote competitive advantage ?
• The significance of online marketing for start-ups.

Choosing the right dissertation topic is a critical step in the research process. A well-thought-out and relevant topic captivates the readers and lays a strong foundation for a successful and impactful dissertation. By considering the topic’s significance and aligning it with personal interests and expertise, researchers can embark on a journey that leads to meaningful contributions to their field of study.

• Guide to Writing a Public History Thesis with a Public History Component | Texas State University
• Advanced Legal Research Pathfinders | Wake Forest Law
• Specialized Research Topics in Law | Harvard Library
• Special Education Research | Vanderbilt Peabody College
• What Is Public Administration? | ThoughtCo
• Recent Dissertation Titles | Harvard T.H. Chan, School of Public Health
• Areas of Research | Stanford, Department of Political Science
• Student Research Topics | PennState
• Topics | US Department of Justice
• The First Steps: Choosing a Topic and a Thesis Supervisor | PennState
• How to Choose a Research Thesis Topic | Florida International University
• Recent Dissertation Titles | Boston College
• PhD in Marketing: Areas of Research | Michigan State University
• Research Topics | University of Connecticut
• Master Thesis and Terminal Projects | College of Design, Construction, and Planning
• Interior Architecture: Past Thesis Titles | UNC Greensboro
• Computer Science: Research Areas | The Grainger College of Engineering
• Computer Science Research Areas | Northwestern University
• Recent MA & PhD Topics in Art History | Lamar Dodd School of Art, University of Georgia
• Research Topics at the Center for Evolutionary Psychology | University of California
• Research Topics | Rice University, Department of Psychological Sciences
• Research Topics | Stanford, Department of Psychology
• Nursing Graduate Theses and Dissertations | University of Central Florida
• Sociology Research Areas | Cornell University
• Dissertation Directives | Marquette University Graduate School
• How to Choose Your Thesis Topic | Central European University
• Writing a Dissertation or Thesis Proposal | University of North Texas
• Selecting a Thesis Topic: A Post Graduate’s Dilemma | ResearchGate
• 7 Tips to Help You to Choose Your Dissertation Topic | University of Essex
• Dissertation Survival Guide: Choosing a Topic | University of Huddersfield
• Picking Your Dissertation Topic | Loughborough University
• Choosing a Dissertation Topic | Association for Psychological Science

Choosing Topics for PhD Applications: Your Ultimate Guide

Are you considering applying for a PhD program? Congratulations on taking the first step towards advancing your academic career! However, with this exciting opportunity comes the daunting task of deciding which topic to pursue in your application. As an applicant, you want to choose a topic that not only aligns with your interests and strengths but also stands out among other applicants. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming and intimidating to make this decision. But fear not, because in this blog post we will provide you with the ultimate guide on choosing topics for PhD applications that will help set you apart and increase your chances of being accepted into a program. So buckle up and get ready to discover how to leave a lasting impression through an impressive choice of topic.

Navigating PhD Application Topics: US vs UK Perspectives

In both the US and UK, the potential topic of your PhD application plays a critical role in the admission process; however, there are key differences to consider. In the US, your research proposal is less emphasized in the initial application. Students often spend their first couple of years on coursework before defining their research topic alongside their chosen advisor. Conversely, in the UK, students are expected to present a detailed research proposal right from the application stage. The proposal should outline the research question, methodology, and proposed timeline, demonstrating the applicant’s capability to conduct independent research. This divergence stems from the different philosophies of doctoral studies between the two countries, with the US favoring a more holistic approach and the UK favoring a more specialized and targeted one.

When preparing your statement of purpose for a PhD application, it’s crucial to tailor your approach to the requirements and expectations of either the US or UK education system, as they differ significantly.

If you are applying to a US institution, your statement should reflect a wide-ranging understanding of your chosen field, highlighting your academic achievements and intellectual curiosity. You aren’t expected to fully commit to a particular research question at this stage.

On the other hand, having a specific research topic in your statement of purpose can stand you in good stead, even when applying to US institutions. A well-defined research question demonstrates your ability to think critically, your understanding of the field, and your aptitude for independent study. This can leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee and distinguish your application from others. While it’s not mandatory to stick to this topic throughout your PhD, it serves as an indicator of your research interests and potential.

Conversely, if you are applying in the UK , your statement should demonstrate a focused and informed understanding of your proposed research topic. You should provide details of your research question, proposed methodology, and tentative timeline. This shows your ability to conduct specialized, independent research. Capture your awareness of the research landscape and show how your work would contribute to the existing body of knowledge.

In either case, remember to emphasize your passion for your chosen field, your preparedness to undertake rigorous academic work, and your potential to contribute meaningfully to the academic community.

Trust the adventure

Embarking on a PhD journey often feels like stepping into the unknown; it’s a venture filled with opportunities for personal and professional growth. Embracing the mantra ‘Trust the adventure’ when choosing potential topics for PhD applications translates into maintaining an open mind towards unexplored research areas that spark your curiosity. It’s about daring to venture beyond your comfort zone and delving into fields that might initially seem daunting or tangential to your primary area of interest. Often, the most groundbreaking discoveries occur at the intersection of disparate disciplines. By allowing your curiosity to guide you, you may find yourself at the forefront of innovative research, breaking new ground and contributing novel insights to your field of study.

Start brainstorming early

As you embark on your PhD journey, the importance of starting your brainstorming early cannot be overstated. It isn’t a process that should be hurried; rather, it is a thoughtful exploration of potential research topics that may serve as the cornerstone for your academic pursuits. The sooner you engage in this intellectual exploration, the more time you will have to thoroughly investigate. This early onset not only allows you to refine your interests but also provides ample time to assess the feasibility and scope of your research. Remember, a PhD is a commitment of several years; hence, the topic you choose should not only intrigue you, but it should also have the potential to contribute significant insights to your chosen field. Nurturing your ideas from the embryonic stage can lead to a robust research proposal that is both innovative and achievable.

Follow your interests

When considering potential topics for your PhD applications , it’s crucial to align your research interests with these topics. The essence of a PhD journey is the passion, curiosity, and intellectual excitement that a research question can inspire within you. This is not just about finding a suitable topic; it is about identifying an area or question in your chosen field that truly resonates with you. Choosing to explore an issue that you are genuinely interested in can make the process of researching and writing significantly more engaging, and it often results in higher-quality work. This is mainly because passion fuels perseverance, a trait indispensable when facing inevitable research hurdles. It’s important to remember that a PhD is not a sprint; it’s a marathon that requires sustained interest and dedication over several years. Hence, following your interests can serve as a guiding compass in the vast sea of research possibilities, leading you towards a topic that could potentially sustain your motivation throughout your PhD journey.

Look for gaps in existing research

When examining potential topics for PhD applications, identifying gaps in existing research is a crucial step. This process involves critically analyzing current literature in your field of interest and determining what questions have been left unanswered. These gaps may represent areas of study that have been overlooked, underdeveloped, or yet to be explored in depth. By focusing on these gaps, your research could answer lingering questions or clarify ambiguities in your field. This approach requires a fine balance of critical thinking, creativity and intellectual curiosity as you seek to identify not only what is known but, more importantly, what remains to be discovered. Ultimately, pursuing these areas of uncharted knowledge allows you to expand on existing research in a meaningful and impactful way.

Consider broader trends and themes

When exploring potential topics for PhD applications, it’s essential to consider broader trends and themes within your field. These often reflect the evolving dynamics and directions in which your discipline is headed. Engaging with these emerging themes can position your research at the forefront of academic thought and debate. Consider how your unique perspectives or insights could contribute to these conversations. Maybe you’ve observed a trend that others haven’t, or perhaps you can apply a new theoretical framework that could shed light on these emerging themes. By aligning your research with these broader trends, you not only increase its relevance and potential impact, but also demonstrate your ability to contribute meaningfully to your field. Remember, a PhD isn’t just an academic endeavour, but a conversation with the broader academic community.

Talk to professors and professionals

Engaging in detailed conversations with professors and professionals in your field can provide invaluable insights when it comes to identifying potential PhD research topics. These individuals possess a wealth of knowledge and experience, have a deep understanding of the current landscape of the field, and are usually up-to-date with the latest research trends and emerging topics. Conversing with them can help broaden your perspective, provide new angles for your research, and even challenge preconceived notions you may have. They may highlight certain areas of study that you might not have otherwise considered or share their own experiences and challenges they faced during their research journey. Furthermore, they can guide you towards resources and literature that could be instrumental in shaping the direction of your PhD research . Therefore, it is crucial to leverage their expertise and experiences as you navigate the terrain of potential PhD research topics.

Review conference programs and journals

Reviewing conference programs and academic journals in your field is another strategic way to discover potential PhD research topics. These platforms often spotlight novel theories, groundbreaking methodologies, and recurring themes in the discipline, giving you a sense of the most pressing issues and the direction the field is moving in. Conferences and journals disseminate cutting-edge research and are the venues where scholars introduce innovative ideas and paradigms, and discuss and challenge current thinking. By studying these resources, you can identify patterns, trends, and gaps in the existing literature, which could lead to a unique and relevant PhD research topic. For instance, a particular theme may repeatedly appear but lacks comprehensive exploration, or there might be contradictory findings that require further investigation. Additionally, you may uncover a novel approach to an issue that has never been applied before, presenting an opportunity to extend its application and contribute a new perspective to your field. Hence, staying informed about these platforms can help you find a research topic that is both of interest to you and of value to your field.

Connect topics to your skills and background

Connecting potential topics to your skills and background is critical when exploring potential topics to write about in your statement of purpose for PhD applications. This exercise not only allows you to capitalize on your unique strengths, experiences, and knowledge but also enables you to showcase your ability to contribute significantly to the field of study. For instance, if you have extensive experience in data analysis, you might consider focusing on a research topic that would benefit from this expertise. Similarly, if your background is in a unique area, perhaps you could integrate this into your research by investigating a topic that intersects your field of study and your unique background. By relating your research topic to your skills and background, you convey to the admissions committee that you are not just academically capable but also bring a unique perspective to the table, thus elevating your candidacy. Therefore, reflecting upon and articulating your unique skills, experiences, and background in relation to your potential research topic can make your statement of purpose more compelling and increase your chances of acceptance.

Experiment with different angles

Experimenting with different angles or giving fresh twists to topics can be a valuable tactic when selecting a PhD research topic. This approach involves looking at common or established topics from a new perspective or applying novel methodologies or theories. For instance, you might study a well-known issue but through the lens of a lesser-explored theoretical framework, or apply an established method to a new population or context. Such innovative twists can yield unique insights, thereby adding value to the field and setting your application apart. By demonstrating your ability to think creatively and critically, you showcase your potential to make original contributions to your discipline. Moreover, this approach can also demonstrate your adaptability and resilience, traits that are highly valued in research environments. However, it’s essential to balance this originality with feasibility. Ensure that your ‘twist’ is not so out-of-the-box that it becomes impossible to manage within the scope of a PhD program , or doesn’t resonate with potential advisors or funding bodies. So, while you dare to think differently, also ensure your topic is grounded in academic rigour and practical viability. This delicate balance between originality and pragmatism can truly give you a competitive edge in your PhD applications .

Don’t be afraid to rework your ideas

Embracing flexibility in refining your research ideas is not just beneficial but often necessary for a robust research plan to discover topics for PhD applications. When scouting potential topics for your statement of purpose, don’t feel constrained by your initial ideas. As you delve deeper into the literature and engage in academic discussions, you may find angles or aspects that necessitate a rethinking or reshaping of your original concept. Perhaps new findings emerge that challenge your initial assumptions or the practicality of your methods, or perhaps feedback from a trusted mentor or peer points towards a more fruitful direction. In such instances, don’t hesitate to rework your ideas. This process is not indicative of failure, but of growth and refinement. It demonstrates your capacity to understand, adapt and improve, which are critical skills for any successful researcher. In fact, a proposal that has been iteratively refined may likely be more compelling and robust than one that hasn’t been questioned or challenged. Remember, the ultimate goal is not to stick to your first idea, but to arrive at a research question that is meaningful, manageable and has the potential to contribute significantly to your field. Hence, see this process of reworking and refining as a journey towards a stronger, more compelling research proposal

Trust your instincts

Trust in your instincts is a key guiding principle when choosing potential topics for PhD applications. This is not to say that you should ignore practical considerations or informed advice, but it means that at the core of your decision-making process, your innate curiosity and intellectual passion should have a significant role. It is this curiosity that will sustain your motivation during the challenging journey of in-depth research. When you stumble upon a topic or a research question that sparks your interest and makes you want to delve deeper, pay close attention. If it keeps drawing you back, it might just be the right path for you. This innate draw towards a topic often signifies a personal connection, a vested interest, and a level of commitment necessary for rigorous scholarly research. It’s like a compass pointing you towards the areas where you can make significant contributions. So, as you navigate the complex landscape of research topics, remember to trust your instincts and let your innate curiosity guide you towards the right path.

In conclusion, applying for a PhD program is an exciting but challenging journey. Choosing the right topics for PhD application can be intimidating, but with our guide, you now have the tools to make a well-informed decision. Remember to align your interests and strengths while also standing out from the competition with your topic choice. And if you feel like you need an extra boost for your application, don’t forget to check out our statement of purpose services specifically tailored for PhD applicants. This could be just the edge you need to secure your spot in a prestigious program. So don’t let fear hold you back, take the leap and start crafting your impressive application today. Trust us when we say that all of your hard work and dedication will be worth it in the end when you are accepted into the PhD program of your dreams. Congratulations once again on taking this courageous step towards advancing your academic career. We wish you the best of luck in all of your future endeavors!

With a Master’s from McGill University and a Ph.D. from New York University, Dr. Philippe Barr is the founder of The Admit Lab . As a tenure-track professor, Dr. Barr spent a decade teaching and serving on several graduate admission committees at UNC-Chapel Hill before turning to full-time consulting. With more than seven years of experience as a graduate school admissions consultant, Dr. Barr has stewarded the candidate journey across multiple master’s programs and helped hundreds of students get admitted to top-tier graduate programs all over the world .

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How to Choose a Good Research Topic for Your PhD

Choosing the right research topic is quite often a daunting task, especially for PhD students. However, developing a good research question has a positive impact on students’ research careers. Thesis advisors offer help during this initial stage. Later on, PhD students are expected to choose their own research topic for subsequent studies.

When navigating through several interesting research topics, it becomes necessary to strike the right balance between curiosity and societal needs. Moreover, funding agencies fund compelling research proposals based on meaningful and highly relevant research topics. Selecting a good research topic can, therefore, increase the odds of academic success.

PhD Research Topic and Your Career

Performing a meticulous literature survey helps researchers identify existing research gaps and devise novel strategies for addressing them. Once the research gap is identified, it becomes imperative to choose a meaningful research question. A well-chosen research question can lead to a compelling research proposal. In fact, doctoral researchers can positively shape their entire career by finalizing a good research proposal. Researchers are expected to choose topics that can potentially lead to impactful publications. Good publications fetch good citations. Well-published and well-cited researchers can easily find satisfying jobs in academia or industry. Choosing the right research topic, thus, can open doors to satisfying job opportunities worldwide.

Pathway to Success

There are several ways to ensure success in research. When in graduate school, students need to undertake several measures to identify a compelling research topic. Although conducting a thorough literature survey certainly facilitates this process, it is virtually impossible to choose the right research topic solely based on literature surveys. Students and early-stage researchers, therefore, need to brainstorm thoroughly with their advisor, talk to experts, and attend research seminars/conferences to listen to (and network with) established researchers. Quite often, taking up the relevant coursework (especially for interdisciplinary research areas) simplifies the process of research topic selection.

Choosing the right research question helps researchers stay focused and motivated throughout their career. Meaningful research questions eventually lead to meaningful discoveries and inventions. Robert Smith presented in Graduate Research: A Guide for Students in the Sciences (ISI Press, 1984) a list of 11 research questions to consider:

• Can you enthusiastically pursue it?
• Can you sustain your interest while pursuing it?
• Is the problem solvable?
• Is it worth pursuing?
• Will it lead to other research problems?
• Is it manageable in size?
• What is the potential for making an original contribution to the literature in the field?
• Will the scholars in your field receive the results well if you solve the problem?
• Are you (or will you become) competent to solve it?
• By solving it, will you have demonstrated independent skills in your discipline?
• Will the necessary research prepare you in an area of demand or promise for the future?

Keeping these questions in mind while developing a research question can set the stage for a productive and fulfilling career.

Common Mistakes

There are several mistakes that students and early-stage researchers commit during the process of research topic selection. Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Extending thesis work even after graduate school : If researchers choose topics that are direct extensions or clear derivatives of their thesis work, then they do not make significant value addition to the respective field of study. Choosing a radically new research topic, while still embarking on the broad area of specialization is indeed the key to success.
• Choosing an obscure, irrelevant, or non-compelling research topic : This can adversely affect the researcher’s motivation levels and can drastically decrease their odds of attaining success.
• Letting PhD advisors choose research topics for you : Although researchers often pursue work within the same field even after earning their PhD, they are less likely to conduct research on the same exact topic. For this reason, letting your advisor tell you what to study rather than you developing a question based on your own reading and experiences in the laboratory is another common mistake that can have lifelong consequences.

Finally, scientists should work in an environment that nurtures the natural chaos of developing a research direction. PhD advisors should also make it a point to thoroughly groom and mentor their PhD students. A good thesis advisor enables his/her students to choose good research topics.

Did your thesis advisor choose a research topic for you? Did he/she train and mentor you well? Were you able to choose your own research topic? Are you happy with your chosen research topic? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!

Research topics for science or literature: Deep knowledge and a keen interest in any subject with a scholarly attitude are the prerequisites for any research work.

I am allowed to choose my research topic.

i want research topic for p.hd

Thank you for posting your query. Selecting a good research topic is the first step towards carrying out a successful and impactful research study. A good research topic can help you attract funding and also help you to successfully publish in a prestigious journal. Unfortunately we are not aware of your field of research and hence will not be able to suggest you research topics. However, we can share few tips that might be helpful in selecting an appropriate research topic for your PhD. While choosing a research topic, you must carry out a thorough literature survey in your field or genre of research and look for a research gap. Identifying the research gap makes it easy to select a research topic and an appropriate research question. Once you have selected a research topic, you can check through our checklist available here .

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Choosing a Research Topic for your PhD Program

Rev. prof jonathan edward tetteh kuwornu-adjaottor posted 9th june 2020 post views: 337.

T he courage to start a PhD program starts with choosing a topic not just in a discipline but in an area of the discipline you studied at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. This article is vital because your PhD would run for three to four years fulltime depending on your institution or more if you are considering a part-time PhD. I have often encountered PhD candidates who abandon their projects because of a lack of interest in their research work. It is therefore very important to choose a topic that you would be passionate about to keep you glued to your research for the duration of your PhD. You should be able to complete your chosen topic within the given timeframe. This article discusses what a research topic is and outlines some steps to enable you to choose a research topic for your PhD.

What is a Research Topic? A research topic is a subject or issues a researcher is interested in and wants to conduct a study on. A well-defined research topic is the starting point of every successful PhD. Sometimes,  your supervisor may assign you a topic, but most often your supervisors require you to select your own topic of interest.

Choosing a Research Topic When deciding on a topic, there are a few things that you will need to do:

• Brainstorm for Ideas

To brainstorm simply means to think and come up with an idea. However, brainstorming is done individually or in a  group whereby participants generate ideas spontaneously by contributing to its members’ topics. When you are brainstorming, create space for more ideas; use your imagination; don’t throw any away immediately. Write them down as they come to mind; note keywords or concepts that may be of interest to you; these terms could help you form a more focused research topic. An easy way out is to get ideas from your previously published articles (if any) or master’s thesis that you may be still interested in pursuing. You can then go ahead and narrow down the topics to two or three.

• Read General Background Information

You can now read general published articles on the top two or three topics you are considering. Reading a broad summary enables you to get an overview of the topic and see how your idea relates to broader, narrower, and related issues. It also provides a great source for finding words commonly used to describe the topic. These keywords may be very useful to your research later. You can use Google Scholar or Researchgate to find the latest research articles on the topics you have selected (I mentioned these online platforms because you do not need to pay to access the articles available. Some of the articles have restricted views limited to the abstracts while some provide the full article for download). Reading through just the abstract (summary) of the papers you gather can give you ideas on current research on your selected topics. Recommendations for future research on the articles could be possible avenues you may decide to focus on.

• Focus on your Topic (Narrow it)

A topic will be very difficult to research if it is too broad or narrow. One way to narrow a broad topic is to limit your topic by (a) geographical area (b) culture (c) time frame (d) discipline (e) population group.  For example, when considering a topic on Environmental Issues, you could narrow it by: Geographical Area  – What environmental issues are most important in Ghana? Culture  – How does the environment fit into the Ghanaian worldview? Time frame  – What are the most important environmental issues of the last five years? Discipline  – How does environmental awareness affect business practices today? Population  – What are the effects of air pollution on children?

• Make a List of Keywords

Keep track of the words that are used to describe your topic. Look for words that best describe your topic. Look for the words when reading published articles and background information. Find broader and narrower terms, synonyms, key concepts for keywords to widen your search capabilities. Make notes of these words and use them later when searching for databases and catalogs.

• Be Flexible

It is common to modify your topic during the research process. This is a normal part of the research process. When researching, you may not wish to change your topic, but you may decide that an aspect of the topic is more interesting or manageable.

• Define your Topic as a Focused Research Question

You will often begin with a word, develop a more focused interest in an aspect of something relating to the word, then begin to have questions about the topic. For example, Idea  – Mother tongue biblical interpretation. Research Question  – How have the mother tongue bibles been interpreted by scholars in Ghana? Focused Research Question  – What principles do scholars in Ghana use in interpreting texts of the mother-tongue translations of the Bible?

• Research and Read More about the Topic

Use the keywords you have gathered to scholarly work from online research platforms such as Google Scholar and Researchgate as mentioned earlier. Look for enough information to answer your research questions. Remember, selecting a topic is an important and complex part of the research process.

• Formulate a Thesis Statement  

A thesis statement is one sentence that expresses the main idea of a research paper. It makes a claim, directly answering a question. Your thesis statement will usually be one or two sentences that state precisely what is to be answered, proven, or what will inform your audience about your topic. The development of a thesis assumes that there is enough evidence to support the thesis statement.

For example, a thesis statement could be: Mother tongue biblical hermeneutics is being done by scholars in Ghana. The principles the scholars have used to contribute to Biblical Interpretation. The title from the above thesis statement could be: Mother Tongue Biblical Hermeneutics in Ghana: Principles and Practice.

In this article, I have discussed eight steps to help you choose a topic for your PhD research. In the coming weeks I would discuss how to write your introductory chapter. In the meantime, if you are hoping to start a PhD soon you may want to try the following:

• Select a research topic using the eight steps outline above.
• With the aid of Google Scholar and Researchgate search for literature relating to your research topic.

Bibliography Xun Liu, Research Topic, Definition of. In  The SAGE Encyclopedia of Communication Research Methods , ed., Mike Allen. (New York: SAGE, 2017).www. umflint.edu/library/how-select-research-topic

This article is published with the kind courtesy of the author – Prof.  Jonathan Edward Tetteh Kuwornu-Adjaottor. He is an Associate Professor of New Testament and Mother Tongue Biblical Hermeneutics in the Department of Religious Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.

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• Graduate School

How to Find a PhD Topic

Don’t panic if you don’t know how to find a PhD topic. This is a struggle that afflicts many people, and even though you might feel like you are behind, or need to move faster, the reality is that you can and should spend some time working out your thesis.

Still, it’s difficult to advance through your studies if you feel like you are directionless, and it wouldn’t hurt to get a better idea of your PhD topic early on. Every centimeter of your academic path will assist you in your career goals, whether that’s as a scientist, a teacher, or just figuring out how to find a job in academia .

Thesis writing services could help you get ready to write your work, but expert tips will be good preparation, too. In this article, we present a step-by-step approach to how to find a PhD topic so that you can confidently pursue your academic studies.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free initial consultation here <<

Article Contents 6 min read

Requirements for a phd topic.

Key to a PhD topic is the fact that you are contributing new knowledge to the current body of knowledge within your given field. It can be difficult to know what “knowledge” is, just as it can be tricky to discern what is a good, original “contribution,” and that search can be frustrating.

To test whether your idea is worthy, try to answer some questions about it:

d.     Once more, this comes down to articulation: can you explain how you will achieve the results you hope to achieve? "}]'>

At the core of every great PhD topic is research, and lots of it. Your first task – and it is monumental – is to read extensively in your field. Any field is replete with information – tons of research and writings of those who have gone before – and this workload alone can feel voluminous. How do you cope?

Your thesis advisor is your first resource here, and they will make recommendations of materials that you should read. Proceeding from that point is a matter of curiosity. Give yourself over to being curious. Read an article and let yourself become fascinated enough to ask questions. Any key words or phrases which come up in that article – read up on those as well. Search out the sources and citations yourself and read through those. Follow the “rabbit trail” to glean the best knowledge about your chosen subject.

Try to stay current. Studying the ancient, venerable masters is a great way to learn, but if you\u2019re looking for how to find a PhD topic, you\u2019ll need to know what people are saying now, which means keeping largely to the latest papers, the latest research, and the latest opinions. ","label":"Another Tip","title":"Another Tip"}]' code='tab1' template='BlogArticle'>

After all your research, reading, conversation, and contemplation, you are ready to pinpoint what’s missing. Remember: your topic needs to be an original contribution, which means that it cannot be too close to existing research or theses.

It can be difficult to see what isn’t there. Like searching for a lost item that you cannot quite picture, describing a void or gap is never a simple task.

Some tips for searching the limits of the unknown:

• Curiosity is, once again, your friend. Apply the “who, what, where, when, why, and how?” questions to the latest publications in your field. These questions will yield the ideas that are still missing in each publication or paper.
• You also might ask, “what does that mean?” of any publication you read. For instance, you might read a paper on migration patterns in butterflies that accurately describes butterfly movements throughout the year. It might be extensive, examining different years, climates, and types of lepidoptera. But what do those migratory patterns mean? How might they be used for conservation purposes? Could you apply these data to anything else – bees, for instance – to learn their cycles and yearly patterns? By seeking out the implications or possibilities of a publication, you can find some interesting areas worth exploring.
• What’s the counterargument? You might read a fascinating article about an economic theory that sounds great. It might seem revolutionary – the best direction for the economy, in fact! But how do you know? Has anybody considered the opposite theory? Has anybody just decided they don’t like it? Or are there any extant critiques? Exploring opposing viewpoints might be a great way to further the field.

Are you ready for your thesis defense? Check out this infographic:

Narrowing Your Ideas and Remaining Flexible

Once you have allowed curiosity to reign supreme, acquired a list of potential areas to explore, and are brimming with knowledge and possibilities, it’s time to narrow the field. You can’t write eight theses, after all, so you must settle on one main PhD topic to fully explore.

It’s very important to remain flexible at this stage. Don’t rush into one topic that you’ll regret later.

The best tip to winnowing ideas while remaining flexible is to try each one out a little bit. Do a little free-form writing, come up with thought experiments and practical experiments that prove and disprove your idea, and maybe return to some of your favorite forums to bat the ideas around with peers.

By trying to elaborate and explore these ideas in writing, you will quickly find out which ones have weight, which spark your curiosity and interest, and which are dull, flat, or even shallow. You don’t want to accidentally pick a topic that only requires a couple of pages to explain, more or less, because you can’t build an academic paper out of that.

So, test out the ideas and topics and slowing whittle them down to only two or three big ideas that will support the weight of a full PhD topic.

Remember that when you are crafting your thesis, your thesis advisor is going to be involved, both at the proposal phase, and during their review of your thesis before your defense. So, plan for the long term, not the short term. It will take years to bring this about properly. Don’t rush, take your time, and make sure that whatever your topic is, it is something you can love for a long, potentially frustrating journey.

Keep in mind that, given your advisor’s involvement, you need to plan for extra time for review and discussion, as well as anticipate their reactions toward the end of your thesis journey. For example, your advisor might bring up an unforeseen element of your research before your defense, and you will need time to grapple with this advice and correct the thesis. In other words, plan for revision, even at the end of your studies.

Try to anticipate your advisor’s notes, but most importantly, give yourself the time and flexibility to respond properly and thoroughly.

Finalizing Your Thesis Topic

Curiosity remains your guide. What do you love? Which topic survives the scrutiny of a few test drafts or free-form musings, but also keeps you up at night in the best way?

That’s where you should begin your journey.

Then comes the task of crafting your thesis proposal, which consists of:

• An abstract
• A thesis statement
• The preliminary research you have done
• An explanation of why this topic is important and necessary – why it will be a meaningful contribution to your field
• How you will approach your subject, including any experiments or research you are intending to undertake in the pursuit of your thesis
• A literature review of existing material
• An estimation of your timeline, how you will proceed, and how long it will take
• The reach of this thesis and how it will affect fields beyond the immediate topic
• References and citations

The full process of how to find a PhD topic will never be simple or easy, but we hope these tips and steps that we have provided will make it feel more straightforward. Once you have accomplished them, you will be over the first hurdle, launching you toward your research, your writing, your thesis defense, and beyond to how to find a job after grad school .

You can refine it, change it, or modify it, but remember that any such modification will set your time frame for your PhD back. The greater the modification, the more work you will have ahead of you to “course correct” into the new topic.

Follow what excites you. Your academic career need not be a musty one; don’t pursue something that is dull or uninteresting. So, if you discover a new idea, incorporate it, or pursue it.

You might also find out, after embarking on your research, that somebody else is publishing something very similar. You might want to alter your thesis, or change it, if you find out that others are already working on your topic.

However, this is dependent on how deep into your research and/or thesis that you are. If you are a month out from completing your studies, put the new idea on the backbench and finish your work. There is definitely a time limit here.

If you have any doubts, share your qualms with your thesis advisor, who will be able to help you figure out if you have the time to expand or switch your topic.

Your descriptions should be very detailed. High academic standards apply to PhDs, and your notes and write-ups need to reflect this. Moreover, you are writing for academics, so there is no need to adapt your texts to use simpler language: give a full and complete description of your topic using current terminology in the field. Outline what you intend to accomplish and how you will fulfill your intentions.

The timeline will be different for every student, which is advice that should encourage you if you feel like you are behind your peers: everybody moves at their own pace.

Additionally, different research areas might require a longer contemplation period.

Finally, remember: your advisor needs to weigh in at both the beginning and the end of your thesis. Budget that time into your plan.

No field is exhaustible. There will always be more to learn. Can you arrive at the end of art? Of mathematics? Of history? It seems inconceivable that these areas will be depleted. While it might seem overwhelming – the idea of finding a truly original contribution – you will find one. It might take time, but if you remain curious and keep your mind open, you will arrive at the place you need to be.

As much as you want. They are tasked with helping you and will be glad to be of service. Any time you’re feeling stumped or want to bounce ideas off them, schedule an appointment, or visit during their office hours.

Do respect their time, however. If you’re monopolizing every moment they have, you might be there too much. Respecting boundaries and limits is necessary, but you should generally feel very free to ask for help; nobody faults you for asking.

No. You need to know generally what you are going to study and why, but you certainly don’t need thesis prep before applying to a graduate program. If you need any help with that, a PhD consultant can help you with your application.

There is no easy answer to this question. Some theses programs allow for you to move quickly and condense your time frame. Should you try to get your doctorate faster? That’s up to you.

The positive is getting into the job market faster, but the negative side will mean an extremely hectic schedule.

The ultimate answer is to take an honest look at what you want for your future and what you are capable of taking on. Weighing out those two factors will give you your answer.

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Tress Academic

#29: Help! How to find the topic for my PhD?

October 29, 2019 by Tress Academic

Are you puzzled as to how you’re supposed to find a topic for your PhD project? Feeling buried under a ton of scientific articles or books that you’ve read which only added to your confusion? If it’s been weeks since you started, and one idea after another is running through your head without any clue how to mold one into a project – you’re definitely feeling the pressure!

We’re here to help you cut through the noise and come up with a strategy for a  workable project idea. Plus, we have a detailed super-smart 6-step-guide “Identify your PhD topic” for download.

DON’T PANIC – You’re in good company

If you’re struggling to settle on a topic for your PhD, you’re not the only one. We know that for many PhD students this is their first great challenge. “How do I find my PhD topic” is also a question that we are regularly asked in our course “PhD Success Lab” . Being able to sort through a vast amount of information and then decide on a final topic for your dissertation is daunting! 

We recently listened to a podcast about the life and achievements of Professor Stephen Hawking, and learned that he, surprisingly, also suffered from this very problem! After arriving at the Cambridge Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics in 1962, it took him an entire year of restless searching to identify and finally decide on the exact topic for his PhD! But, it doesn’t t have to be this way …!

A frequent reason for delay

Seagram et al. (1998) found that those PhD students who completed their programmes fast found the selection of their dissertation topic easier than those who delayed. Taken the other way round, if you take an overly long time to decide on your topic at the beginning, it can result in a delay for your entire PhD. A simple reason for this is that too much time is ‘lost’ in the beginning and there is no way to make up for that later on. That does not mean you should make the decision lightly or without thorough research. But you should not postpone the decision about your dissertation topic because you don’t feel ‘ready’, or you are afraid of making a decision. For more tips and tricks how to avoid delaying your PhD, see our “ Free expert guide “5 reasons why PhD students delay & how-to avoid”  and the SMART ACADEMICS blog post no. 2: So you want to finish your PhD on time?

What is the ‘PhD topic’?

There are some misunderstandings and ambiguity around the word ‘topic’, and many PhDs seem to think that all they need is the general topic to get started with their research. But that’s not quite right. It’s true that the topic of your PhD is the broad thematic umbrella within which you will carry out your project and write your dissertation. So if you have the topic, you have a clear idea about what your PhD project will be about. But you still have to hammer out concrete research questions that will help you to organise your research. In practice, deciding on a topic and working out your research questions goes hand-in-hand. 

You won’t ‘FIND’ your dissertation topic

It is a myth that you’re able to ‘FIND’ your topic as if one day it will fall out of the sky and manifest itself in front of you. It won’t! Identifying a thesis topic and then developing innovative research questions around it is hard work . It is the first intellectual challenge in your PhD, and it does not come for free! So get rid of the mindset ‘I’ll have to find my topic’ and replace it by the mindset ‘I’ll have to work out the exact topic of my PhD for myself’. If you ‘work’ on it and you invest a considerable amount of focused time, you will succeed in making one for yourself! 

Is it up to me to decide on my PhD topic?

We know that you are not operating in a vacuum, but works together with other scientists. Clearly, how much freedom you have to decide your thesis topic depends on your situation, but it is to some degree influenced by how your PhD project is funded. Let us break this down for you:

a) Scholarship or stipend: 

If you apply for funding for your PhD project at a private or public research funding agency or organisation, you’ll likely have a lot of freedom. In this case, it is likely you who wrote the grant application and it’s you who had to suggest a topic in the proposal. If the funding is granted, then you’ll work on your own project. However, as can also be the case, a funding stream can be tied to a certain ‘call’ or purpose, where you may have to make your research fit that purpose in order to be eligible for funding. To give you an example: if a Dutch nature protection agency awards grants for projects working on flood prevention and mitigation in the Netherlands, your project has to do exactly that. 

b) Applying for a PhD position:

In this case you applied for a PhD position that was advertised with a particular thematic focus. The institution or person (professor, PI) who advertised the position has received funding already and they looked for the right person to carry out specific research tasks. Frequently, these are PhD positions within a bigger research project or programme, so yours is not the only PhD position that is part of it. If you apply for the position, the overall topic for the larger project is set, and sometimes the PhD projects are already defined within that framework. Nonetheless, you should still describe in more detail what exactly constitutes your PhD project, while making sure it aligns with the overall goals of the bigger programme. The type of narrowly pre-defined PhD projects occur more frequently in the natural sciences than in the social sciences or humanities. 

Is it good to have a lot of freedom to define my PhD topic?

If the topic is more fixed, you have less room to manoeuvre, and we’ve had PhD students in our courses who find this advantageous. The day their PhD starts they have a project topic and a fairly clear idea what they are expected to do, so they can start with their research right away. 

Conversely, the advantage of having a great deal of freedom is that you can influence and decide what you’ll work on. You can mould your project to fit your personal research interests, skills and abilities. But we’ve encountered PhD students who find it overwhelming at the beginning, because there are so many choices and they feel they don’t know the consequences of picking a certain topic. 

So for everyone who finds it difficult to identify a topic for their PhD project, take the opportunity to download our free and failsafe 6-step-guide: “Identify your PhD topic.”

Below you’ll find a short summary of its key-points: 

Step 1. Research the state-of-the art in your field

• Identify 5-10 relevant keywords for a literature search. 
• Specify your search further regarding literature databases you search, publishing dates, geographic areas, or applied methods and approaches. 
• Collect notes and summaries of the articles you read as you go, keeping reference numbers with your notes so you can always revisit articles.

Step 2. Brainstorm project ideas

• Find a quiet spot and write out all project ideas that come to your mind. Just collect all your thoughts, without critically evaluating them.
• A few days later revisit your ideas and start reviewing, crossing out ideas you don’t think are worth pursuing and highlighting those that are.
• Continue adding ideas and refining your list, as you go on reading. 

Step 3. Narrow down your ideas

• After working on this for a while, go through your brainstormed list and narrow it down to the best 2-3 ideas.
• Expand on each promising idea, brainstorming on one per day. 
• Jot down obvious research questions or knowledge gaps, ideas for experiments, how to gather empirical evidence, hypothesis you’re having etc.

Step 4. Prepare “project-sketches”

• Create 1 page “project sketches” that flesh out more of the specifics of the project like the relevance, methods, projected outcomes. 
• Use this stage as a test of how you feel about the topic – positively or indifferent? You’ve got to work on the final topic for the upcoming years. Ideally, you’re enthusiastic about it. 

Step 5. Discuss with supervisors

• Give your supervisors a chance to look over your “project-sketches” and set a meeting.
• Ask your supervisors for their opinion of the topic’s originality and feasibility (regarding time, funds, facilities & methods available).
• Incorporate their feedback on your “project-sketches” to further refine them.

Step 6. Decide and develop into statement of objectives

• During this process, one topic may start to stand out as the one with the most potential. Go for that one! If not, carefully weigh the pro’s and con’s of the remaining options. But eventually make a decision and move forward. 
• For the final topic, create a “statement of objectives”: Elaborate 3-6 objectives of your topic which concisely add up to an overall project goal. Include research questions to answer or the hypothesis you’ll work with.

Make sure you’ll download our full 6-step-guide: “Identify your PhD topic” !

Conclusion:

If you’re among those PhD students who can or have to work out their project goals for themselves, you’ll likely fill the first weeks of your PhD focussing on that. As we always say: Until you’ve identified the goal for your PhD, identifying the goal is your goal! It won’t come down from heaven, and you won’t ‘find’ it (it’s not an easter egg hunt after all). We know that it is hard work to hammer it out, but with the six steps above you’ll definitely find it easier to crack and come up with a sweet topic! 

Related resources:

• Smart Academics Blog #2: So you want to finish your PhD on time?  
• Smart Academics Blog #24: New to the PhD? – 5 tips for a great start!
• Smart Academics Blog #46: What makes PhD students succeed?
• Smart Academics Blog #112: PhD project-planning quick-start
• Expert guide “5 reasons why PhD students delay & how-to avoid”  
• Seagram, B.C., Gould, J., Pyke, S. 1998. An investigation of gender and other variables on time to completion of doctoral degrees. Research in Higher Education. 39/3, 319-335

More information: 

Do you want to complete your PhD successfully? If so, please sign up to receive our free guides.  

© 2019 Tress Academic

Photographs by Philipp Mandler, Kachina-Lee at unsplash.com

#PhD, #PhDTopic, #PhDDissertation, #PhDProject, #PhDThesis, 

How To Choose a Research Topic For Your PhD Thesis (7 Key Factors to Consider)

If you are a PhD student, then you know that choosing a topic for your PhD thesis or dissertation was one of the toughest decisions you had to make.

This post provides guidance to prospective PhD students on the factors they need to consider when it comes to choosing their research topic.

1. Personal interests

The PhD programme lasts on average for 3 years, but varies depending on the school and department. As such, you need to choose a research topic that interests you so as to keep you motivated during those days when you feel like giving up (and those days will be many).

2. The interests of your school’s faculty

As much as your interest is important in helping you choose a research topic for your thesis, it must align with the interests of one (or more) of the faculty of your school in which you are taking your PhD.

This is important in ensuring that you get a supervisor who is an expert in your proposed area of research. In fact, one of the PhD application requirements for most PhD programmes is a concept note, which highlights the proposed research topic. This serves the purpose stated above: ensuring that the applicant will get adequate supervision throughout his or her studies.

3. Your knowledge and skills set

The knowledge and skills you gained during your undergraduate or Masters’ degree, as well as through your job can influence your choice of a research topic for your PhD thesis.

You may choose to settle on a topic that requires your existing knowledge and skills set, or may choose the harder route of gaining new knowledge and skills. The PhD is a great opportunity for the latter option.

For instance, you may be well versed with quantitative research methods, including its practical application, and may decide to choose a topic that renders itself to the use of quantitative analysis. Alternatively, you may decide that since you already know quantitative analysis, it is time to learn about qualitative research methods and choose a topic that will force you to dive deep into qualitative analysis. It is all about your preference.

4. Your career prospects

When choosing a PhD thesis topic, ask yourself what your career aspirations are, and then choose a topic that will give you the opportunity to learn more about your area of interest.

Besides spending a great amount of time conducting research in your research topic, the PhD period will also enable you to network with your peers and experts in your research area.

PhD students are often expected to attend workshops, seminars, and scientific conferences in the course of their studies, and these avenues provide great professional networking opportunities for the students, which can open their doors for their future career.

You therefore want to choose a topic that will significantly contribute to your career growth.

5. Trends in your industry

This factor is closely related to factor number 4 above. If your career prospects are not in academia, then it is important to consider what is trending in your industry and choose a topic that aligns to it. This will offer you with enormous opportunities for career growth.

For instance, in the Health Economics space, digital health is currently trending, and will trend for a long time to come.

A PhD student who is currently focusing on an aspect of digital health is highly likely to “sell like a hot cake” upon completion of his or her studies. That is, as long as he or she puts in the effort to do the research well and network with like-minded people in the industry.

Choosing a topic that is relevant and adds value, especially practically, is important for the PhD student’s career growth.

6. Feasibility of the research topic

It is one thing to pick a research topic that interests you and your faculty. It is another thing altogether to ensure that the topic chosen does not drag you behind as far as completing your PhD is concerned.

PhD is time-limited. You only have 2, 3, or whatever number of years to start and complete your studies. Your topic should therefore be feasible both time-wise and resource-wise.

You need to pick a topic that you can comfortably work on within the time limits of your studies, as well as within the available financial resources.

Consider whether you have scholarship for the study or if you are self-sponsoring your studies, and choose a topic that will not burden you financially.

Another important feasibility aspect to consider is the data requirement for your research. Will you collect primary data or use already available secondary data. If using primary data, do you have the time and money required for the collection and analysis of the data? If using secondary data, do you have easy access (that is, there are no logistical and financial barriers) to the data? You need to have this knowledge before settling on a research topic.

7. Adequacy of existing literature on the research topic

Before settling on a topic, research it widely to make sure that there are enough papers written about it. Remember that you will review hundreds of papers for your PhD thesis.

You can easily find out whether the topic has been well researched by skimming through online journal databases and resources like Google Scholar . Familiarise yourself with what others have written and what gaps exist, and then tweak your topic in a way that will add value to the existing literature.

While at it, also get to know who the experts of your research topic are. Networks such as ResearchGate, LinkedIn and Twitter are great places to know who the giants of your research area are. Remember that you will stand on the shoulders of many giants throughout your PhD studies (and beyond!). Get to know them and their past and ongoing works.

Final Thoughts on “How to Choose a Research Topic for your PhD Thesis”

Your research topic for your PhD thesis will most likely evolve over time. The topic you start with when you join your PhD programme will undergo significant transformations as you undertake courses, read literature, and consult with your supervisor. Don’t worry if this happens, it is the norm.

However, don’t spend too much time thinking about your topic, as the more time you spend on it, the less time you will have for the actual research. Consider the above 7 factors, settle on your topic and hit the road running.

Related post:

How to Write a PhD Concept Paper

Grace Njeri-Otieno

Grace Njeri-Otieno is a Kenyan, a wife, a mom, and currently a PhD student, among many other balls she juggles. She holds a Bachelors' and Masters' degrees in Economics and has more than 7 years' experience with an INGO. She was inspired to start this site so as to share the lessons learned throughout her PhD journey with other PhD students. Her vision for this site is "to become a go-to resource center for PhD students in all their spheres of learning."

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Finding the 'Just Right' Scope for Your PhD Topic Selection Process

Starting a PhD is like beginning a long intellectual adventure, and it greatly depends on selecting the right research topic as its foundation. Navigating the expanse of possibilities can be both exhilarating and daunting, and therein lies the challenge. This blog delves into the intricacies of the PhD topic selection process , aiming to demystify the oft-perplexing terrain. From elucidating the pivotal how to choose a PhD topic to delving into the nuances of the selection process of PhD research topic, we start a journey to uncover the Goldilocks Principle – the art of pinpointing a research scope that's 'just right'. 

Finding the ‘Just Right” Scope Using Goldilocks Principle

1. self-assessment and reflection:.

Engaging in self-assessment and reflection empowers a PhD researcher by providing a clear understanding of their own academic strengths and interests while making the Selection process of PhD Research Topic. This introspection lays the foundation for a topic selection process that is aligned with the researcher's passions and areas of expertise. It helps in identifying subjects that not only resonate personally but also possess the potential for long-term academic engagement.

2. Academic Landscape Analysis:

Delving into the existing academic landscape equips the researcher with a comprehensive understanding of the field. It enables the identification of trends, debates, and gaps in the literature. This step is crucial as it ensures that the chosen research topic is not only timely and relevant but also offers an opportunity to make a substantive contribution to the field.

3. Narrowing Down the Scope:

Striking the right balance between breadth and specificity is paramount for a researcher  if they are figuring how to choose a PhD topic. This step prevents the researcher from venturing into overly broad or overly narrow topics, which can lead to difficulties in conducting meaningful research. A well-defined scope provides a clear direction for the study, allowing for focused exploration and analysis.

4. Literature Review:

Conducting a thorough literature review is akin to laying a solid foundation for the research endeavor. It exposes the researcher to seminal works, key researchers, and critical debates in the chosen field. This step not only aids in identifying gaps and areas ripe for exploration but also ensures that the researcher is well-versed in the existing body of knowledge, enabling them to situate their research within the broader academic discourse.

5. Formulating Research Questions:

Developing precise and relevant research questions is a critical step as it serves as the roadmap for the entire research process. These questions should not only address gaps in the existing literature but also have the potential to generate new insights. Well-crafted research questions guide the researcher's efforts, ensuring that the study remains focused and purposeful.

6. Feasibility Assessment:

Evaluating the feasibility of the chosen topic is a practical consideration that can save a researcher valuable time and resources. This step involves assessing the availability of necessary resources such as data, archives, and potential funding. Ensuring that these resources are accessible and attainable streamlines the research process and enhances the likelihood of successful outcomes.

7. Consideration of Personal Passion:

Recognizing and aligning with personal passion is a source of sustained motivation for the researcher. Choosing a topic that genuinely interests the researcher ensures that they remain engaged and committed throughout the often-challenging PhD journey. This step not only fosters a sense of fulfillment but also contributes to the quality and depth of the research.

8. Alignment with Academic Goals:

Assessing how the chosen topic aligns with long-term academic and career objectives is crucial for a researcher's academic trajectory. This step ensures that the research endeavor contributes meaningfully to the researcher's overall academic goals. It helps in selecting a topic that not only holds personal significance but also has the potential for broader impact in the academic community.

9. Consultation and Feedback:

Seeking input from mentors, advisors, and peers provides valuable external perspectives on the viability and significance of the chosen topic. This step facilitates a more holistic evaluation of the research direction and allows for refinement based on expert insights. It also fosters a collaborative and supportive research environment.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the journey of navigating the PhD topic selection process is akin to Goldilocks seeking the perfect fit - a pursuit of balance and precision. By adhering to the Goldilocks Principle, scholars embark on a quest to discover the 'just right' scope for their research endeavors. Through the meticulous steps of self-assessment, comprehensive analysis of the academic landscape, and the crafting of precise research questions, the How to choose a PhD topic becomes a purposeful and informed endeavor. The Selection process of PhD Research Topic, marked by a harmonious fusion of personal passion and scholarly significance, lays the groundwork for a research journey that is poised for impact. This principle underscores the importance of aligning one's chosen scope with academic goals, while also remaining open to adaptation and continuous evaluation. 

Quantum Research is a company that provides PhD consultancy services in Bangalore, India. They offer a PhD title selection service that helps research scholars choose an appropriate and unique title for their thesis. Their consultants, who are experts in the same field of study as the student, suggest 3-4 titles that are relevant to current issues and have a theoretical basis to support them. They also provide a brief summary of the finalised topic and a list of sample papers to support the title. If required, they can revise the title based on feedback from the supervisor. The attributes of a good PhD topic include being clear, brief, feasible, and leading the reader in the right direction . You can contact them at 0091.80.46410147 or [email protected] for more information.

FAQ Questions

1. how do i choose a research topic for a phd.

Ans: Choosing a research topic for a PhD involves a meticulous process guided by the PhD topic selection process. Begin by engaging in self-assessment, identifying your academic strengths and areas of interest. Next, conduct a thorough analysis of the existing academic landscape, evaluating trends and gaps in the literature. Formulate precise research questions that align with the Selection process of PhD Research Topic, ensuring they address significant gaps in the field. Consider personal passion and academic goals in tandem with the Goldilocks Principle to strike the right balance. Seek feedback from mentors and peers, and be open to iteration. This holistic approach ensures that your chosen topic is not only relevant but also poised for meaningful contribution.

2. What are the 3 steps in choosing topic?

Ans: The three pivotal steps in choosing a research topic for a PhD are rooted in the How to choose a PhD topic framework. Firstly, engage in self-assessment and reflection to understand your strengths and interests. Secondly, conduct a comprehensive analysis of the academic landscape to identify trends, debates, and gaps. This step ensures that your chosen topic aligns with the broader discourse. Finally, narrow down the scope of your research, striking a balance between specificity and breadth. This ensures that your research is focused, yet expansive enough for meaningful exploration, in accordance with the Goldilocks Principle.

3. Can PhD research title be changed?

Ans: Yes, it is possible to change the title of a PhD research project. The Selection process of PhD Research Topic is dynamic, and as research progresses, new insights may emerge. If the initial title no longer accurately reflects the scope or direction of the study, it can be modified. However, it's important to communicate and seek approval from your advisor or the relevant academic committee, following the established procedures of your institution. This ensures that the revised title aligns with the research objectives and maintains clarity and coherence in the overall study.

4. Is there a limit in PhD research title?

Ans: While there is no strict word limit for a PhD research title, it is advisable to keep it concise and clear. The title should effectively convey the essence of the research while remaining succinct. It should encapsulate the core focus and scope of the study, adhering to the principles of the Goldilocks Principle - not too broad as to be vague, and not overly narrow to limit its significance. A well-crafted title should be informative, engaging, and reflective of the research's unique contribution to the academic discourse within the How to choose a PhD topic framework.

5. How many words should be there in PhD title?

Ans: A PhD research title should typically be concise, generally ranging from 10 to 15 words. This word limit ensures that the title remains focused and effectively communicates the core subject of the research. The title should encapsulate the essence of the study, adhering to the Goldilocks Principle - precise enough to convey the research's scope, yet comprehensive enough to encompass its significance within the Selection process of PhD Research Topic.

80+ Amazing Research Proposal Ideas to Help You Succeed

Table of contents

• 1 What Is a Research Proposal in Academic Writing?
• 2 Key Components of a Research Proposal Example Topics Structure
• 3.1 Business and Economics Research Proposal
• 3.2 Criminology and Law Ideas Research Topic List
• 3.3 Education Research Proposal Topics
• 3.4 Sociology Research Proposal Topics and Social Policy Research
• 3.5 Psychology Research Proposal Example
• 3.6 Political Science Research Proposal
• 3.7 Information Technology
• 3.8 Environmental Research Proposal Topics
• 3.9 Literature and Linguistics
• 3.10 Public Health and Medicine
• 3.11 Entertainment, Sports, and Culture
• 3.12 Controversial Research Proposal Topics
• 4 Things to Remember in Your Topics 503 Ideas Sample
• 5 Whenever You Feel Stuck With Research Proposal Topic Ideas

Developing a good research proposal is one of the most challenging elements of writing a research thesis. Although you can find several popular ideas online, finding supportive arguments and trustworthy sources might be difficult. Some college students also feel stuck and do not know what research proposal sample topics to choose.

Remember that a good topic that you know well is already half of the task done!

What Is a Research Proposal in Academic Writing?

A research proposal represents a special academic writing document where you must present your research. It is not always related to science because you may be dealing with a creative project for your drama class. In certain cases, a research proposal may be related to a request for additional funding or a scholarship. The challenging part is the evaluation of your proposed research. This means you have to present at least one piece of evidence and choose a good topic that stands out. In addition to specifying your subject, a methodology must be present with more than one explanation.

Your sample, the gear used, a literature review, and many other bits should be in a shortened form. It can be compared to a complete research assignment you must conduct, which is why a subject must be chosen wisely.

Key Components of a Research Proposal Example Topics Structure

The structure of your research proposal must be like a special road map where your academic advisor can see what you are planning to do. The purpose here is to outline your academic objectives, discuss your methodology, and list all resources used. At the same time, an expected outcome must be added before the conclusion of your research proposal. If you wish to convince your target audience, the value of your work must be explained with strong arguments and scientific facts. The vital part, however, is the planned approach you wish to choose for your future studies.

As you learn how to write a research proposal , the structure will never be the same because an assignment in Law or MBA will differ from a typical research proposal paper in Nursing. Still, you must include the following structural elements:

Always refer to your grading rubric when unsure about your research proposal structure. Quite a lot will depend on your subject and the final word count. If you have any doubts, your academic advisor can help you. If you are still feeling lost, you may approach research paper help from our team and narrow your research topic down to perfection!

Research Proposal Sample Topics by Subject

Remember that these are only basic concepts you can develop and use as the starting point. Consider available resources, statistical data, and supporting literature when choosing a topic. The trick is to provide research proposal topics with arguments that are fueled by the facts and a piece of evidence. Do not just choose a research topic blindly because it sounds good! Think about what you can research fully and extend in your future studies. Choose a list of research methods you wish to work with and think over possible research proposal topics:

Business and Economics Research Proposal

Most students majoring in MBA or Economics tend to choose a business project that can describe the current state of affairs. We recommend looking at issues in the past, as it will be easier to work with already-researched ideas. It is always possible to compare past studies with present times and offer something new.

• The positive and negative effects of cryptocurrency on small businesses.
• The safety of economics in the electronic realm and medium.
• The things we have learned from the Cuban missile crisis.
• Making business in the United States vs Canada.
• The pros and cons of dealing with Asian markets in Europe.
• Teaching economics to schoolchildren: new paradigms.
• The dangers of artificial intelligence in business management.

Remember that you can work with various research topic tips and compose your research idea out of that!

Criminology and Law Ideas Research Topic List

Most criminal law research topics you can find online will deal with at least one punishment method. You can review past cases or turn to newspapers for information. If you do not know what to choose, consider your primary field of study to continue. Here are some research proposal topics 503 to consider:

• The cultural aspect of violent crimes in the United States.
• What factors contribute to property crimes in the EU?
• How can people change the public order in criminology today?
• The controversial facts about white-collar crimes in early childhood education.
• The role of politics in organized crimes and a biased attitude.
• The contribution of artificial intelligence to high-tech crimes and identity theft.
• The Ancient Rome topics in development studies are present today.

You can also consider basing your criminal justice research proposal on past case studies or court hearings you know well. Depending on what you learn as a law student, you can conduct field studies or explore topics in early childhood laws for your research proposals.

Education Research Proposal Topics

Education is constantly changing, meaning you can find innovative ideas and things that have not been researched well. For example, you can talk about proposal topics in early education during COVID-19 times or discuss the challenges of emotional attachment. Here are some good proposal topics 503 ideas you can examine in education:

• The reasons why college students find online classes challenging.
• Handwriting skills and online education data analysis research questions.
• Access to school studies in Afghanistan in post-World War II times.
• Emotional bonding between kids with learning disabilities in online schools during the early childhood development stage.
• The future of plagiarism risks and AI-based tools based on quantitative research proposals.
• The pros and cons of ChatGPT in early childhood education.
• How can musical instruments help in the education and the development of cognitive skills?

If you want to discuss teaching methods in your research proposal, consider using smart boards or how early education topics can help advance the topic. You can also focus on special education classes and discuss anything from autism to cerebral palsy challenges in your research topic.

Sociology Research Proposal Topics and Social Policy Research

When composing a research paper in Sociology , you must find enough resources and check things twice. Sociology is difficult to deal with as you must combine Economics, Psychology, Business Studies, and even History. If you need to brainstorm a qualitative research proposal sample that can be helpful, take a look at our ideas sample guide 2024 below:

• Analysis of human behavior patterns of athletes with a further investigation.
• The role of sociology in journalism and inclusive education.
• The history of positivism through the lens of Auguste Comte and his legacy.
• The pros and cons of collective thoughts in armed conflicts and crises.
• The political philosophies and social circles (Syndicalism anarcho pacifism etc).
• Social norms in Japan vs China when compared to the Western culture.
• The role of identity on social media and professional business management deformation issues.

Of course, you can talk about any concept you know well. It has to be something that inspires you and helps you to achieve success. You can talk about social institutions and norms or discuss family sociology. Discussing bullying or any other social process popular for any research proposal cover page subject today is also possible.

Psychology Research Proposal Example

Most papers dealing with Psychology are lengthy and complex, making it hard to narrow things down. Nevertheless, your research proposal must be within the word count specified. The golden tip you should not ignore is choosing some psychological concept first. Take a look at what we came up with in our 503 ideas sample guide, and think about what inspires you the most:

• The evolution of branches in psychology is based on our present timeline.
• The links between various mental disorders and therapy methods.
• The role of ChatGPT in human cognition, environmental factors, and development.
• The tendency to ignore humanism when dealing with psychology experiments and related research questions.
• The pros and cons of using animals for various sustainable development tests in Psychology in developing countries.
• How to write a business project proposal in psychology using current research methods?
• Organizational culture and poor management strategies in the United States as a way to investigate transport physical layers.

If you wish to make things even more complex with research proposal topics, you can discuss various human attitudes, love, and romance. The same is true for dealing with social cognition and leadership. Many students also write research proposals about modern communication methods based on case studies. Whatever helps you, always look for good research questions and sources first!

Political Science Research Proposal

Many college learners tend to ignore politics or choose something already discussed. It is also a risky way to complete your research proposal because you won’t be able to find unique information. Our expert team recommends choosing something uncommon or exploring foreign countries. It can be a good solution as an option for what to research. See these ideas below:

• International relations of the United States and Canada in the 90s.
• The future of political theories and concepts to be offered today.
• Human health philosophy of Buddhism and applicability to our times.
• Mediation as a way to resolve political conflicts.
• Comparative politics of the Netherlands and Belgium.
• The pros and cons of changing Public Law in the United States.
• Mediation vs Negotiation: the practical use and case studies in inclusive education environments.

The most important thing in politics is presenting multiple opinions and avoiding a biased attitude. Consider what tone you must choose for your research and provide sufficient examples to ensure your vision is understood. This will help make your research more accessible.

Information Technology

The challenge of writing a computer science project proposal is the variety of subjects. As a software engineer, you may discuss various platforms or helpful Python scripts. To discuss social media’s pros and cons, you must combine education and psychology in your work. We have picked several good ideas that will fit most students majoring in IT. Take a look at these research proposals and use them as starting points:

• Can AI-generated tools and neural networks replace human beings?
• The problem of plagiarism in education with the use of machine learning.
• The emergence of new programming languages: is there a necessity?
• The use of robotics in school education and development of cognitive skills.
• Can robots create poetry and literature: opinions of IT experts.
• Stress management methods among programmers and software engineers.
• Cyber security and bullying: what research methods can be used to prevent harm?

Once again, using a good undergraduate research proposal sample and trustworthy resources will be helpful for your writing. If you cannot find good sources, consider visiting Google Scholar, Science Direct, or Jstor as some options. Just enter related keywords and see what comes up for your winning research proposal writing!

Environmental Research Proposal Topics

It is one of the most popular topics anyone can choose, from students majoring in Biology and Education to those who study Economics and Business Management. You can also be a journalism major and write about local community events. The choices are virtually unlimited, so we ask you to take a closer look at recent events or talk about natural disasters as an option. See these research paper topic examples below:

• The role of poor marine navigation in ocean pollution.
• Vietnam War and the use of forbidden chemicals: ethics and history.
• The pros and cons of using pesticides in your garden.
• What can we learn from dolphins in terms of human psychology and relationships?
• The role of environmental education in American schools.
• Amazon forests through the lens of history and anthropology.
• The transformation of our food and the link to the animal world.

Some learners choose case studies to discuss environmental issues. If you tend to choose something local, discuss the problem’s background and provide more information. This will help explain the importance and provide similar helpful examples.

Literature and Linguistics

It’s not easy to find a good literature proposal because most of them are based on books and sound like reviews. Do not make this mistake! Do your best to move further and think about dealing with things like symbolism or talk about the history of some language. The most important is to include examples and book pages even before you start with proper research. Your proposal’s title must be clear, as you can see in the examples below:

• The use of the subject of death in William Shakespeare’s writing.
• William Golding and empathy in children’s book writing (choose similar topics in early education).
• The use of female authorship literature in 17th century England.
• The history of the African continent languages and the legacy we have today.
• Translation of the Bible: how accurate can it be?
• The transition of science fiction from the ’60s to the present times.
• The pros and cons of electronic books.

When you take a book you like, read critical reviews first and try to find the gaps other researchers may have left. It will help you to find a good proposal and make things unique.

Public Health and Medicine

The medical research proposal sample also represents a variety of subjects, from epidemiology and Pharmaceutics to ER Nursing and Health Administration. Start by narrowing things down before you continue with the subject. It is important to narrow things down to limit your research scope. It will make it easier to focus on your objectives and work out a methodology. Here are some ideas that we came up with:

• Stress management and professional burnout among ER nurses.
• Traditional medication: what can we learn from Chinese folk medicine?
• The use of artificial intelligence calculation methods in healthcare.
• What can be done to prevent pandemic situations in the world?
• Ethical standards in Islam versus Christianity in healthcare.
• Public health methods in the American schools vs the United Kingdom.
• The use of opium for medical purposes: pros and cons.

Remember that medical research proposals should be accurate and supported by facts and statistical data. Avoid personal bias and sensitive topics to ensure you do not insult or touch someone’s feelings. Besides, change the wording if some topic is disturbing, or talk to your academic advisor.

Entertainment, Sports, and Culture

Cultural topics are also quite popular today as we discuss fashion, music, culture, and social media. It’s good to choose something modern and make it interesting and inspiring. The critical part here is to find something that can be supported with the help of trustworthy facts and clear arguments. Think about working with these ideas:

• The negative sides of social media for teens and kids.
• What can be done to bring back the grunge culture today?
• The way of life: studying the roots of hip-hop music.
• The use of trends in Instagram: the cultural aspect.
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• Learning how to write a project proposal, take notes as you research available literature for anything from an MBA research proposal topic idea to a typical biology research proposal sample.
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MIT economists Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson share Nobel Prize

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MIT economists Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson PhD ’89, whose work has illuminated the relationship between political systems and economic growth, have been named winners of the 2024 Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel . Political scientist James Robinson of the University of Chicago, with whom they have worked closely, also shares the award.

“Societies with a poor rule of law and institutions that exploit the population do not generate growth or change for the better,” the Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences stated in the Nobel citation. “The laureates’ research helps us understand why.”

The long-term research collaboration between Acemoglu, Johnson, and Robinson, which extends back for more than two decades, has empirically demonstrated that democracies, which hold to the rule of law and provide individual rights, have spurred greater economic activity over the last 500 years.

“I am just amazed and absolutely delighted,” Acemoglu told MIT News this morning, about receiving the Nobel Prize. Separately, Johnson told MIT News he was “surprised and delighted” by the announcement.

MIT President Sally Kornbluth congratulated both professors at an Institute press conference this morning, saying that Acemoglu and Johnson “reflect a kind of MIT ideal” in terms of the excellence and rigor of their work and their commitment to collaboration. Their research, Kornbluth added, represents “a very MIT interest in making a positive impact in the real world.”

In their work, Acemoglu, Johnson, and Robinson make a distinction between “inclusive” political governments, which extend political liberties and property rights as broadly as possible while enforcing laws and providing public infrastructure, with “extractive” political systems, where power is wielded by a small elite.

Overall, the scholars have found, inclusive governments experience the greatest growth in the long run. By contrast, countries with extractive governments either fail to generate broad-based growth or see their growth wither away after short bursts of economic expansion.

More specifically, because economic growth depends heavily on widespread technological innovation, such advances are only sustained when and where countries promote an array of individual rights, including property rights, giving more people the incentive to invent things. Elites may resist innovation, change, and growth to hold on to power, but without the rule of law and a stable set of rights, innovation and growth stall.

“Both political and economic inclusion matter, and they are synergistic,” Acemoglu said during the MIT press conference.

The scholarship of Acemoglu, Johnson, and Robinson has often been historically grounded, using the varying introduction of inclusive institutions, including the rule of law and property rights, to analyze their effects on growth.

As Acemoglu told MIT News , the scholars have used history “as a kind of lab, to understand how different institutional trajectories have different long-term effects on economic growth.”

For his part, Johnson said about the prize, “I hope it encourages people to think carefully about history. History matters.” That does not mean that the past is all-determinative, he added, but rather, it is essential to understand the crucial historical factors that shape the development of nations.

In a related line of research cited by the Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences, Acemoglu, Johnson, and Robinson have helped build models to account for political changes in many countries, analyzing the factors that shape historical transitions of government.

Acemoglu is an Institute Professor at MIT. He has also made notable contributions to labor economics by examining the relationship between skills and wages, and the effects of automation on employment and growth. Additionally, he has published influential papers on the characteristics of industrial networks and their large-scale implications for economies.

A native of Turkey, Acemoglu received his BA in 1989 from the University of York, in England. He earned his master’s degree in 1990 and his PhD in 1992, both from the London School of Economics. He joined the MIT faculty in 1993 and has remained at the Institute ever since. Currently a professor in MIT’s Department of Economics, an affiliate at the MIT Sloan School of Management, and a core member of the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society, Acemoglu has authored or co-authored over 120 peer-reviewed papers and published four books. He has also advised over 60 PhD students at MIT.

“MIT has been a wonderful environment for me,” Acemoglu told MIT News.  “It's an intellectually rich place, and an intellectually honest place. I couldn't ask for a better institution.”

Johnson is the Ronald A. Kurtz Professor of Entrepreneurship at MIT Sloan. He has also written extensively about a broad range of additional topics, including development issues, the finance sector and regulation, fiscal policy, and the ways technology can either enhance or restrict broad prosperity.

A native of England, Johnson received his BA in economics and politics from Oxford University, an MA in economics from the University of Manchester, and his PhD in economics from MIT in 1989. From 2007 to 2008, Johnson was chief economist of the International Monetary Fund.

“I think of MIT as my intellectual home,” Johnson told MIT News . “I am immensely grateful to the Institute, which has a special and creative atmosphere of rigorous problem-solving.”

Acemoglu and Robinson first published papers on the topic in 2000. The trio of Acemoglu, Johnson, and Robinson published their first joint study in 2001, an influential paper in the American Economic Review detailing their empirical findings. Acemoglu and Robinson published their first co-authored book on the subject, “Economic Origins of Dictatorship and Democracy,” in 2006.

Acemoglu and Robinson are co-authors of the prominent book “Why Nations Fail,” from 2012, which also synthesized much of the trio’s research about political institutions and growth.

Acemoglu and Robinson’s subsequent book “The Narrow Corridor,” published in 2019, examined the historical development of rights and liberties in nation-states. They make the case that political liberty does not have a universal template, but stems from social struggle. As Acemoglu said in 2019, it comes from the “messy process of society mobilizing, people defending their own liberties, and actively setting constraints on how rules and behaviors are imposed on them.”

Acemoglu and Johnson are co-authors of the 2023 book “Power and Progress: Our 1,000-Year Struggle over Technology and Prosperity,” in which they examine artificial intelligence in light of other historical battles for the economic benefits of technological innovation.

Johnson is also co-author of “13 Bankers” (2010), with James Kwak, an examination of U.S. regulation of the finance sector, and “Jump-Starting America” (2021), co-authored with MIT economist Jonathan Gruber, a call for more investment in scientific research and innovation in the U.S.

Gruber, as head of the MIT Department of Economics, praised both scholars for their accomplishments.

“Daron Acemoglu is the economists’ economist,” Gruber said. “Daron is a throwback as an expert across a broad swath of fields, mastering topics from political economy to macroeconomics to labor economics — and he could have won Nobels in any of them. Yet perhaps Daron’s most lasting contribution is his essential work on how institutions determine economic growth. This work fundamentally changed the field of political economy and will be an enduring legacy that forever shapes our thinking about why nations succeed — and fail. At MIT, we recognize Daron not just as an epic scholar but as an epic colleague. Despite being an Institute Professor who is freed from departmental responsibilities, he teaches many courses every year and advises a huge share of our graduate student body.”

About Johnson, Gruber said: “Simon Johnson is an amazing economist, a terrific co-author, and a wonderful person. No one I know is better at translating the esoteric insights of our field into the type of concise explanations that bring economics to the attention of the public and policymakers. Simon doesn’t just do the fundamental research that changes how the profession thinks about essential issues — he speaks to the hearts and minds of those who need to hear that message.”

Agustin Rayo, dean of MIT’s School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences, home to the Department of Economics, heralded today’s Nobel Prize as well.

“This award is deeply deserved,” Rayo said. “Daron is the sort of economist who shifts the way you see the world. He is an extraordinary example of the transformative work that is generated by MIT's Department of Economics.”

“All of us at MIT Sloan are very proud of Simon Johnson and Daron Acemoglu’s accomplishments,” said Georgia Perakis, the interim John C. Head III Dean of MIT Sloan. “Their work with Professor Robinson is important in understanding prosperity in societies and provides valuable lessons for us all during this time in the world. Their scholarship is a clear example of work that has meaningful impact. I share my heartiest congratulations with both Simon and Daron on this incredible honor.”

Previously, eight people have won the award while serving on the MIT faculty: Paul Samuelson (1970), Franco Modigliani (1985), Robert Solow (1987), Peter Diamond (2010), Bengt Holmström (2016), Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo (2019), and Josh Angrist (2021). Through 2022, 13 MIT alumni have won the Nobel Prize in economics; eight former faculty have also won the award.

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Press mentions, times higher education.

Prof. Simon Johnson, one of the recipients of the 2024 Nobel Prize in economics, speaks with Times Higher Education  reporter Jack Grove about his journey from a childhood in Sheffield as the son of a screw manufacturer to studying for his PhD at MIT and serving as chief economist at the International Monetary Fund. Speaking about how to help ensure AI is used to benefit society and workers, Johnson explains: “Big tech doesn’t like us, but we need a plan for this, and the role of economists like us is to get ideas like this out there so they can be hammered out in the policy world.”

Prof. Daron Acemoglu, a recipient of the 2024 Nobel Prize in economic sciences, speaks with CNBC about the challenges facing the American economy. Acemoglu notes that in his view the coming economic storm is really “both a challenge and an opportunity,” explains Acemoglu. “I talk about AI, I talk about aging, I talk about the remaking of globalization. All of these things are threats because they are big changes, but they’re also opportunities that we could use in order to make ourselves more productive, workers more productive, workers earn more. In fact, even reduce inequality, but the problem is that we’re not prepared for it.” 

Prof. Simon Johnson, who shared the 2024 Nobel Prize in economic sciences with Prof. Daron Acemoglu, speaks with CNBC “Squawk Box” about his reaction to hearing the news that he was a Nobel laureate and his research on the role of strong institutions in shaping economies. “I think going forward we need to strengthen the resilience of our democracy in the United States,” says Johnson. He adds that having a “resilient democracy, a legitimate democracy, a democracy that everyone believes in and adheres to the results of elections, is absolutely fundamental to everything that we’ve been able to build.” 

Prof. Simon Johnson, a recipient of the 2024 Nobel Prize in economic sciences, joins Planet Money ’s The Indicator  podcast to discuss his research that demonstrates the importance of strong institutions for a country’s economic growth and prosperity. “Rejecting the result of a free and fair election, encouraging people to attack Congress when it's the process of formally validating that vote - that's not acceptable,” says Johnson. “Those moves - that kinds of actions can absolutely undermine, destroy any democracy. We've seen that many times around the world. It takes a long time to build strong institutions. It doesn't take long to overthrow them if you really put your mind to it.”

Prof. Simon Johnson, who along with Prof. Daron Acemoglu has received the 2024 Nobel Prize in economic sciences, speaks with Lynn Jolicoeur, host of WBUR’s All Things Considered, about his Nobel Prize winning research and how new technologies could play into the future of democracy. “My bumper sticker for this whole moment is, ‘more good jobs,’” says Johnson. He notes that along with his colleagues Profs. Daron Acemoglu and David Autor, he is “pushing for ways that we can tap into new technology, the latest technology, including artificial intelligence, to push the development and deployment of technology towards more good jobs. If you can do that, I think you can right the ship of democracy and more people will feel confident in their future.”

Marketplace

Prof. Simon Johnson, a recipient of the 2024 Nobel Prize in economic sciences, speaks with Marketplace  host David Brancaccio about his research exploring how institutions shape economies and AI’s potential influence on the workforce. “I think there’s a lot we can do on redirecting technological progress and pushing AI and the innovators around that space towards inventing things that are more useful to people and boost the productivity of particularly people with less education.”

Prof. Daron Acemoglu and Prof. Simon Johnson have been honored with the Nobel Prize in economics sciences for their work tracing “the institutional roots of national prosperity by exploring the vastly different outcomes in former European colonies,” explains Scott Horsley for NPR’s Morning Edition . “Democracies are going through a rough patch," says Acemoglu. "And it is in some sense quite crucial that they reclaim the high ground of better governance, cleaner governance, and delivering sort of the promise of democracy to a broad range of people."  

The Boston Globe

Boston Globe reporter Alexa Gagosz spotlights the work of Profs. Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson, recipients of the 2024 Nobel Prize in economics for their research examining global inequality. MIT President Sally Kornbluth called Acemoglu and Johnson, who first stepped foot on MIT’s campus in 1985 as a graduate student, “prolific and influential scholars” whose work “reflects a very MIT interest in making a positive impact in the real world.” Kornbluth added: “Their historical investigations have a great deal to teach us about how and why real societies fail or thrive. And they [have] both become familiar voices in the news, public intellectuals trying to help us all make sense of a tumultuous world.”

The Nobel Prize in economics has been awarded to Profs. Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson for their work studying the impact of societal institutions on country prosperity,” reports Neil Irwin for Axios . The awarded research uncovers why “some nations prosper while other are mired in poverty,” explains Irwin. “[It helps] explain why, showing that colonial societies built on extraction of wealth became poorer in the long run.”

The Wall Street Journal

Profs. Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson have been awarded the Nobel Prize in economic sciences for their research that “advanced the understanding of economic disparities among countries,” reports Paul Hannon and Justin Lahart for The Wall Street Journal . “I’ll be very happy if this prize contributes to having more awareness of the importance of building better institutions, building better democracy,” said Acemoglu. “I think those are urgent challenges for us.”

The Washington Post

The Nobel Prize in economics was awarded to Profs. Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson for their “research on prosperity gaps between countries – specifically how European colonization led to some nations being rich while others poor,” reports Rachel Siegel for The Washington Post . Speaking about the inspiration for his research, Johnson noted that questions around which countries became rich, and the extent to which institutions played a role, “were not really central to the economics I learned in graduate school. We had to do a lot of work to convince people institutions actually mattered in a really big way.”

PBS NewsHour

Prof. Simon Johnson, one of the recipients of this year’s Nobel Prize in economics, joins the PBS NewsHour to discuss the inspiration for his research, the role of institutions in economies around the world and how technology could be harnessed to create better jobs for all. Johnson notes that through his work with the MIT Shaping the Future of Work Initiative, he and his colleagues hope to “get more good jobs in the United States and around the world.” He adds that in the past, “we have managed things so that technology delivered benefits for a broad cross-section of society. But that's not what we have done in the past four decades. We need a course-correction, and that's what we're going to work on.”

Financial Times

Prof. Daron Acemoglu and Prof. Simon Johnson are two recipients of the 2024 Nobel Prize in economic sciences for their work “highlighting that institutions set up during colonization have had an enduring impact on economic outcomes in the countries affected, “reports Delphine Strauss for the Financial Times . “Their research also indicates that more economically inclusive and politically democratic systems prove more conducive to technological innovation and long-run growth.” 

Profs. Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson are two of the winners of this year’s Nobel Prize in economic sciences. Johnson joined CBS Boston to discuss his Nobel Prize-winning research and the potential impact of AI. "People are both too optimistic and too pessimistic if they believe AI can do more things than it really can, but they haven't thought through the way in which it could really wipe out middle-skill, middle-education, middle-income jobs,” says Johnson. 

New York Times

Profs. Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson PhD '89 have been awarded the 2024 Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel for their work explaining the gaps in prosperity between nations and advancing our understanding of inequality, reports Jeanna Smialek for The New York Times . “Reducing the huge differences in income between countries is one of our times’ greatest challenges,” said Jakob Svensson, chairman of the economics prize committee. Thanks to the economists’ “groundbreaking research,” he said, “we have a much deeper understanding of the root causes of why countries fail or succeed.” Acemoglu reacted to winning the prize, noting that: “You dream of having a good career, but this is over and on top of that.” 

Associated Press

The Associated Press highlights commentary from Prof. Daron Acemoglu and Prof. Simon Johnson following the announcement that the economists had been awarded the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel for their research into “why societies with poor rule of law and exploitative institutions do not generate sustainable growth.”. Acemoglu emphasized: Democracy directly “contributes to economic growth, not easily, not right away, it takes a couple of years and it's a difficult business to make democracy work. But generally, countries that democratize grow faster and they grow the right way, meaning they grow in a way that is more equal, and invest more in education and health, so both political and economic inclusion matter, and they are synergistic.”

AP reporters Daniel Niemann, Mike Corder and Paul Wiseman highlight the work of Profs. Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson, who have been honored with the Nobel Prize in economic sciences for their work demonstrating “the importance of societal institutions for a country’s prosperity.” Says Johnson of how AI could impact workers: “AI could either empower people with a lot of education, make them more highly skilled, enable them to do more tasks and get more pay. Or it could be another massive wave of automation that pushes the remnants of the middle down to the bottom.”

Prof. Simon Johnson, a recipient of the 2024 Nobel Prize in economic sciences, speaks with Bloomberg about his research on the impacts of technology on inequality and the future of democracy. “We have not generated enough new good jobs, jobs where you actually get paid good money and you can live well, and we have got to do better on that,” says Johnson. “Automation is going to happen, like it or not, so you have really got to work harder to generate more science, more technology, deploy that, commercialize that, scale it up and generate more good jobs across the country.” 

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