Science Honours

Topic | Proposal | Thesis design | Academic style | Text production

Develop your topic

This task can be a significant hurdle. While supervisors in some departments may suggest topics, other supervisors expect you to have quite a clear idea of the thesis topic before you have your preliminary supervision discussion. Assume the need to have thought through a topic.

Step 1: Think through a topic

If you have had a break from university studies, you should establish a broad topic area or even a potential topic before you enrol. You will have to read in your area of research interest, think, discuss, and if at all possible attend related seminars or conferences. These activities encourage you to contemplate and foster ideas.

If you know the general topic area you wish to research, read widely in the area of interest to identify research issues or questions that need further investigation.

The process of developing a topic is ultimately one of establishing a gap in current research that a thesis could aim to address.

Step 2: Talk to academics

You will have a good idea from undergraduate subjects what areas you would most like to work in, and staff you would most like to work with. It is worth investing time in talking to several potential supervisors, each of whom will approach the process of developing a topic differently. Some may have funding available for quite specific projects; others will encourage you to develop your own topic.

If you have made an appointment with an academic to discuss research topics, keep in mind that the discussion will be most fruitful if you are prepared. The academic will most likely ask you about your research interests, particular aspects of those research interests, your familiarity with the literature, and so on.

It may be helpful to give the academic an outline of your research interests before your meeting. The academic is unlikely to give you a topic, but through discussion can help you to come up with your own. Furthermore, discussions with the academic should assist you in refining an existing topic, or to establish a research space in the current research in the field.

Step 3: Identify expectations

Some units or academic staff require you to submit a research proposal before you can begin your research project. Clarify what is required for your particular degree.

Top of page

Next: The proposal