Before starting to draft a research proposal, graduate students must obtain approval from their supervisor for their chosen research project title. Once they receive approval, they can submit a comprehensive research proposal to their supervisor. The proposal should provide a detailed overview of the research topic, emphasizing its significance and outlining the proposed plan and timeline for execution.

To be able to submit research proposals, graduate students must enroll in Thesis A (9 cr) through NetClassroom in the third semester of their master's program, which is the first semester of their second year. To enroll in Thesis A, students must pass 80% of their courses and have a GPA of "very good" or above, equivalent to a minimum of 3.0. During this semester, students must submit and successfully pass a Thesis/Dissertation Research Proposal (FORM G10).

Upon finishing the research proposal draft, students must present it to the Thesis/Dissertation Advisory Committee. This presentation will be conducted in person and will last approximately 20 minutes, followed by a question-and-answer session with the Committee. If the Committee deems it necessary, a graduate student may need to alter their thesis/dissertation proposal based on the feedback and comments received during that session. Students must submit their proposal to the Committee at least seven days before the scheduled presentation date.

After the proposal receives approval from the Thesis/Dissertation Advisory Committee, the main supervisor is responsible for submitting the proposal, along with a completed (FORM G10), to the College Vice Dean for Graduate Studies.

As for Ph.D. students, candidates have up to three opportunities to pass the Qualifying Exam, which is their Dissertation Proposal Defense.