Candidates for a graduate degree must demonstrate the scholar’s approach to the acquisition and analysis of information in a field of specialization. Advisers welcome imaginative research proposals.

Both thesis and non-thesis programs require research. Students should confer with an adviser or the graduate coordinator for detailed information concerning research requirements for specific degrees and majors. Students conducting research involving human subjects are required to follow the guidelines and obtain the required approvals of the SRU Institutional Review Board for the protection of human subjects.

Students pursuing a thesis or dissertation program should contact their academic adviser concerning research after completing about one-half of the degree coursework. The adviser will assist the student with the necessary steps (such as preliminary selection of a topic and arranging for the appointment of a committee) to proceed. Graduate students receive considerable guidance in the preparation of a thesis/dissertation.

Three bound copies of the thesis/dissertation will become the property of Slippery Rock University. Additional copies may be required by the program’s department.

Students pursuing a non-thesis program are required to do research in conjunction with specific courses and may be required to complete an internship.