Examples of research proposals

Research proposals

Your research proposal is a key part of your application. It tells us about the question you want to answer through your research. It is a chance for you to show your knowledge of the subject area and tell us about the methods you want to use.

We use your research proposal to ensure your research area aligns with your supervisor or team of supervisors.

In your proposal, please tell us if you have an interest in the work of a specific academic supervisor(s) at York St John. You can get in touch with this academic to discuss your proposal.

When you write your proposal you need to:

• Identify the research question you want to answer
• Provide background on the area of research
• Explain how your research will be novel and important
• Describe the research methods you plan to use

Examples of research proposals

• Research Proposal Example 1 (DOC, 49kB)
• Research Proposal Example 2 (DOC, 0.9MB)
• Research Proposal Example 3 (DOC, 55.5kB)
• Research Proposal Example 4 (DOC, 49.5kB)

Subject specific guidance

• Writing a Humanities PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)
• Writing a Creative Writing PhD Proposal (PDF, 0.1MB)