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How to Write a Dissertation Proposal | A Step-by-Step Guide

Published on 14 February 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on 11 November 2022.

A dissertation proposal describes the research you want to do: what it’s about, how you’ll conduct it, and why it’s worthwhile. You will probably have to write a proposal before starting your dissertation as an undergraduate or postgraduate student.

A dissertation proposal should generally include:

• An introduction to your topic and aims
• A literature review  of the current state of knowledge
• An outline of your proposed methodology
• A discussion of the possible implications of the research
• A bibliography  of relevant sources

Dissertation proposals vary a lot in terms of length and structure, so make sure to follow any guidelines given to you by your institution, and check with your supervisor when you’re unsure.

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Table of contents

Step 1: coming up with an idea, step 2: presenting your idea in the introduction, step 3: exploring related research in the literature review, step 4: describing your methodology, step 5: outlining the potential implications of your research, step 6: creating a reference list or bibliography.

Before writing your proposal, it’s important to come up with a strong idea for your dissertation.

Find an area of your field that interests you and do some preliminary reading in that area. What are the key concerns of other researchers? What do they suggest as areas for further research, and what strikes you personally as an interesting gap in the field?

Once you have an idea, consider how to narrow it down and the best way to frame it. Don’t be too ambitious or too vague – a dissertation topic needs to be specific enough to be feasible. Move from a broad field of interest to a specific niche:

• Russian literature 19th century Russian literature The novels of Tolstoy and Dostoevsky
• Social media Mental health effects of social media Influence of social media on young adults suffering from anxiety

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Like most academic texts, a dissertation proposal begins with an introduction . This is where you introduce the topic of your research, provide some background, and most importantly, present your aim , objectives and research question(s) .

Try to dive straight into your chosen topic: What’s at stake in your research? Why is it interesting? Don’t spend too long on generalisations or grand statements:

• Social media is the most important technological trend of the 21st century. It has changed the world and influences our lives every day.
• Psychologists generally agree that the ubiquity of social media in the lives of young adults today has a profound impact on their mental health. However, the exact nature of this impact needs further investigation.

Once your area of research is clear, you can present more background and context. What does the reader need to know to understand your proposed questions? What’s the current state of research on this topic, and what will your dissertation contribute to the field?

If you’re including a literature review, you don’t need to go into too much detail at this point, but give the reader a general sense of the debates that you’re intervening in.

This leads you into the most important part of the introduction: your aim, objectives and research question(s) . These should be clearly identifiable and stand out from the text – for example, you could present them using bullet points or bold font.

Make sure that your research questions are specific and workable – something you can reasonably answer within the scope of your dissertation. Avoid being too broad or having too many different questions. Remember that your goal in a dissertation proposal is to convince the reader that your research is valuable and feasible:

• Does social media harm mental health?
• What is the impact of daily social media use on 18– to 25–year–olds suffering from general anxiety disorder?

Now that your topic is clear, it’s time to explore existing research covering similar ideas. This is important because it shows you what is missing from other research in the field and ensures that you’re not asking a question someone else has already answered.

You’ve probably already done some preliminary reading, but now that your topic is more clearly defined, you need to thoroughly analyse and evaluate the most relevant sources in your literature review .

Here you should summarise the findings of other researchers and comment on gaps and problems in their studies. There may be a lot of research to cover, so make effective use of paraphrasing to write concisely:

• Smith and Prakash state that ‘our results indicate a 25% decrease in the incidence of mechanical failure after the new formula was applied’.
• Smith and Prakash’s formula reduced mechanical failures by 25%.

The point is to identify findings and theories that will influence your own research, but also to highlight gaps and limitations in previous research which your dissertation can address:

• Subsequent research has failed to replicate this result, however, suggesting a flaw in Smith and Prakash’s methods. It is likely that the failure resulted from…

Next, you’ll describe your proposed methodology : the specific things you hope to do, the structure of your research and the methods that you will use to gather and analyse data.

You should get quite specific in this section – you need to convince your supervisor that you’ve thought through your approach to the research and can realistically carry it out. This section will look quite different, and vary in length, depending on your field of study.

You may be engaged in more empirical research, focusing on data collection and discovering new information, or more theoretical research, attempting to develop a new conceptual model or add nuance to an existing one.

Dissertation research often involves both, but the content of your methodology section will vary according to how important each approach is to your dissertation.

Empirical research

Empirical research involves collecting new data and analysing it in order to answer your research questions. It can be quantitative (focused on numbers), qualitative (focused on words and meanings), or a combination of both.

With empirical research, it’s important to describe in detail how you plan to collect your data:

• Will you use surveys ? A lab experiment ? Interviews?
• What variables will you measure?
• How will you select a representative sample ?
• If other people will participate in your research, what measures will you take to ensure they are treated ethically?
• What tools (conceptual and physical) will you use, and why?

It’s appropriate to cite other research here. When you need to justify your choice of a particular research method or tool, for example, you can cite a text describing the advantages and appropriate usage of that method.

Don’t overdo this, though; you don’t need to reiterate the whole theoretical literature, just what’s relevant to the choices you have made.

Moreover, your research will necessarily involve analysing the data after you have collected it. Though you don’t know yet what the data will look like, it’s important to know what you’re looking for and indicate what methods (e.g. statistical tests , thematic analysis ) you will use.

Theoretical research

You can also do theoretical research that doesn’t involve original data collection. In this case, your methodology section will focus more on the theory you plan to work with in your dissertation: relevant conceptual models and the approach you intend to take.

For example, a literary analysis dissertation rarely involves collecting new data, but it’s still necessary to explain the theoretical approach that will be taken to the text(s) under discussion, as well as which parts of the text(s) you will focus on:

• This dissertation will utilise Foucault’s theory of panopticism to explore the theme of surveillance in Orwell’s 1984 and Kafka’s The Trial…

Here, you may refer to the same theorists you have already discussed in the literature review. In this case, the emphasis is placed on how you plan to use their contributions in your own research.

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You’ll usually conclude your dissertation proposal with a section discussing what you expect your research to achieve.

You obviously can’t be too sure: you don’t know yet what your results and conclusions will be. Instead, you should describe the projected implications and contribution to knowledge of your dissertation.

First, consider the potential implications of your research. Will you:

• Develop or test a theory?
• Provide new information to governments or businesses?
• Challenge a commonly held belief?
• Suggest an improvement to a specific process?

Describe the intended result of your research and the theoretical or practical impact it will have:

Finally, it’s sensible to conclude by briefly restating the contribution to knowledge you hope to make: the specific question(s) you hope to answer and the gap the answer(s) will fill in existing knowledge:

Like any academic text, it’s important that your dissertation proposal effectively references all the sources you have used. You need to include a properly formatted reference list or bibliography at the end of your proposal.

Different institutions recommend different styles of referencing – commonly used styles include Harvard , Vancouver , APA , or MHRA . If your department does not have specific requirements, choose a style and apply it consistently.

A reference list includes only the sources that you cited in your proposal. A bibliography is slightly different: it can include every source you consulted in preparing the proposal, even if you didn’t mention it in the text. In the case of a dissertation proposal, a bibliography may also list relevant sources that you haven’t yet read, but that you intend to use during the research itself.

Check with your supervisor what type of bibliography or reference list you should include.

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Caulfield, J. (2022, November 11). How to Write a Dissertation Proposal | A Step-by-Step Guide. Scribbr. Retrieved 12 August 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/thesis-dissertation/proposal/

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How to write a research proposal for a Master's dissertation

Unsure how to start your research proposal as part of your dissertation read below our top tips from banking and finance student, nelly, on how to structure your proposal and make sure it's a strong, formative foundation to build your dissertation..

It's understandable if the proposal part of your dissertation feels like a waste of time. Why not just get started on the dissertation itself? Isn't 'proposal' a just fancy word for a plan?

It's important to see your Master's research proposal not only as a requirement but as a way of formalising your ideas and mapping out the direction and purpose of your dissertation. A strong, carefully prepared proposal is instrumental in writing a good dissertation.

How to structure a research proposal for a Master's dissertation

First things first: what do you need to include in a research proposal? The recommended structure of your proposal is:

• Motivation: introduce your research question and give an overview of the topic, explain the importance of your research
• Theory:  draw on existing pieces of research that are relevant to your topic of choice, leading up to your question and identifying how your dissertation will explore new territory
• Data and methodology: how do you plan to answer the research question? Explain your data sources and methodology
• Expected results: finally, what will the outcome be? What do you think your data and methodology will find?

Top Tips for Writing a Dissertation Research Proposal

Choose a dissertation topic well in advance of starting to write it

Allow existing research to guide you

Make your research questions as specific as possible

When you choose a topic, it will naturally be very broad and general. For example, Market Efficiency . Under this umbrella term, there are so many questions you could explore and challenge. But, it's so important that you hone in on one very specific question, such as ' How do presidential elections affect market efficiency?'  When it comes to your Master's, the more specific and clear-cut the better.

Collate your bibliography as you go

Everyone knows it's best practice to update your bibliography as you go, but that doesn't just apply to the main bibliography document you submit with your dissertation. Get in the habit of writing down the title, author and date of the relevant article next to every note you make - you'll be grateful you did it later down the line!

Colour code your notes based on which part of the proposal they apply to

Use highlighters and sticky notes to keep track of why you thought a certain research piece was useful, and what you intended to use it for. For example, if you've underlined lots of sections of a research article when it comes to pulling your research proposal together it will take you longer to remember what piece of research applies to where.

Instead, you may want to highlight anything that could inform your methodology in blue, any quotations that will form your theory in yellow etc. This will save you time and stress later down the line.

Write your Motivation after your Theory

Your Motivation section will be that much more coherent and specific if you write it after you've done all your research. All the reading you have done for your Theory will better cement the importance of your research, as well as provide plenty of context for you to write in detail your motivation. Think about the difference between ' I'm doing this because I'm interested in it ' vs. ' I'm doing this because I'm passionate, and I've noticed a clear gap in this area of study which is detailed below in example A, B and C .'

Make sure your Data and Methodology section is to the point and succinct

Link your Expectations to existing research

Your expectations should be based on research and data, not conjecture and assumptions. It doesn't matter if the end results match up to what you expected, as long as both of these sections are informed by research and data. 

Published By Nelly on 01/09/2020 | Last Updated 23/01/2024

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Sample PHD Finance and Accounting Dissertation Proposal

Here is a sample that showcases why we are one of the world’s leading academic writing firms. This assignment was created by one of our expert academic writers and demonstrated the highest academic quality. Place your order today to achieve academic greatness.

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An Analysis of the Impact of Financial Volatility Estimates and Option Pricing Methods on the Returns and Risk Assessment in the Saudi Stock Market

Introduction.

Volatility is defined as the statistical measurement of the dispersion in a market index considering the returns (Abdalla and Suliman, 2012). The central banks and regulatory authorities of stock exchanges have highly focused on volatility modelling and forecasting by using asset pricing models for measuring risks and using option pricing formulas for maximising returns.

The Black-Scholes model is an option pricing formula that delivers the scope of portfolio management of stocks along with delivering reliable estimates of volatility (Bhowmik & Wang, 2020). The Saudi stock exchange is also known as Tadawul and it was established in 2007. Tadawul has a market cap of SAR 8.23 trillion and its trade volume amounts to SAR 380.89 billion.

The research topic is to conduct an analysis of the impact of financial volatility estimates and option pricing methods on the returns and risk assessment in the Saudi Stock Market.

Reason for Choice

The research topic has been selected as volatility has become an integral component of the present financial markets and most of the studies conducted by the past authors have focused on the relationship between volatility of the oil prices in Saudi Arabia and the stock prices. This research will evaluate how the estimation of financial volatility along with using option pricing models can be used for increasing the returns in the Saudi stock market along with conducting a financial risk assessment.

This research will provide more information regarding the dependencies among financial volatility and the Saudi Stock Market along with evaluating the significance of forecasting methods for maximizing gains and minimising risk. The research will provide the investors with better decision making parameters considering the alterations in returns due to financial volatility.

The Objectives and Expected Research Contribution

This study research aims to evaluate the influence of financial validity extremists and option pricing methods on the returns and risk assessment in the Saudi Stock Market. The research objectives include analysis of the significance of financial volatility modelling and estimates in the Saudi stock market.

The research will also contribute in the domain of option pricing models that can be used for evaluating the risk associated with the stock prices for guiding the decision making of the investors. The present condition of the Saudi stock market along with its dependencies on oil and other commodities will also be evaluated as an objective of this research.

Lastly, the ways in which returns of investment can be maximized in the Saudi stock market by conducting a proper risk assessment by using financial volatility forecasting and option pricing models will also be discussed. This will facilitate the foreign investors to understand the fluctuations in the Saudi stock along with helping the risk manager is and investors to raise awareness about the risk in Tadawul.

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Research Background and Questions

In Saudi Arabia, the volatility of the stock market and the overall financial industry in the last decade was due to the changes in oil prices. However, the BASEL accords were updated to implement BASEL III for improving the banking and financial regulations. The stock prices in the nation have been declining since 2015 due to the fall in the price of crude oil (Kalyanaraman, 2014).

The government of the country has established a model for Vision 2030 by integrating financial forecasting mechanisms to reduce the dependence on oil for the economy (Simmons, 2006). Volatility is desired in the market as stagnant stock prices do not yield any profits. However, high volatility also implies high risk for the security, and it is measured by using variance and standard deviation among the returns from the market index.

The research questions are:

• What is the importance of financial volatility estimates in the stock markets?
• In what ways do option pricing models facilitate risk assessment and decision making in the stock market?
• What is the present condition of the Saudi Stock market considering the dependencies, returns and risk?
• What is the impact of financial volatility estimates and option pricing methods on the returns and risk assessment in the Saudi Stock Market?

Literature Review

The financial assets have the characteristics of providing returns on the investment but are also susceptible to market risks due to the returns being variable (Black, 1976). The volatility of the assets remains variable, requiring the forecasting of stocks to analyse the market risk involved. Examination of the stock volatility is crucial for minimising the risk and losses while contributing to increasing financial gains.

Option pricing methods refer to the parameter of volatility for evaluating the price of the stocks (Birge and Zhang, 1999). This is beneficial for risk assessment applications and general portfolio management of the stocks. As per Bhowmik & Wang (2020), price volatility estimation enables the financial institutions to become aware of the current volatility value of the assets they are managing and estimating the future values for maximising investors’ returns. According to Lim and Sek (2013), the two methods of determining financial volatility forecasting include using the GARCH and ARMA models.

Methodology

The purpose of this research is to evaluate the impact of estimating financial volatility and option pricing methods on the return on investments and risk assessment in the Saudi Stock Market. This research will be conducted using the positivism philosophy for using first and information for deriving the findings.

The research will be conducted using an inductive approach and considering an experimental design to establish the linkage among the variables in the research topic (Saunders et al., 2007). The research will be conducted by conducting a semi-structured interview with 10 Saudi stock exchange employees to understand the implications of financial volatility forecasting and option pricing models.

Limitations

The research limitations include time and budget restrictions that inhibit surveying with the investors in the Saudi Stock exchange.

The research will require 180 days or six months to complete.

If you need assistance with writing your dissertation proposal, our professional dissertation proposal writers are here to help!

The research will be conducted by analysing the data collected from the interview by forming a thematic analysis for evaluating the open-ended responses. Secondary data will also be considered in this research for comparing the findings from the immediate reactions.

This investigation will identify the measures that are best suited for guiding the investors and financial advisors regarding the maximisation of returns and risk minimisation in the Saudi stock market by using financial volatility estimates and option pricing.

Abdalla, S. Z. S. (2012). Modelling Stock Returns Volatility: Empirical Evidence from Saudi Stock Exchange International Research Journal of Finance and Economics, 85, 166-179.

Bhowmik, R., & Wang, S. (2020). Stock Market Volatility and Return Analysis: A Systematic Literature Review. Entropy, 22(5), 522.

Birge, J.R. and Zhang, R.Q., 1999. Risk-neutral option pricing methods for adjusting constrained cash flows.  The Engineering Economist ,  44 (1), pp.36-49.

Black, F. (1976). Studies of stock market volatility changes.  1976 Proceedings of the American Statistical Association Business and Economic Statistics Section .

Kalyanaraman, L. (2014). Stock market volatility in Saudi Arabia: An application of univariate G.A.R.C.H. model.  Asian Social Science, 10 (10), 142.

Lim, C.M. and Sek, S.K., 2013. Comparing the performances of GARCH-type models in capturing the stock market volatility in Malaysia.  Procedia Economics and Finance ,  5 , pp.478-487.

Saunders, M., Lewis, P.H.I.L.I.P. and Thornhill, A.D.R.I.A.N., 2007. Research methods.  Business Students 4th edition Pearson Education Limited, England .

Simmons, M.R., 2006. Twilight in the desert: The coming Saudi oil shock and the world economy. John Wiley & Sons.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to write a phd dissertation proposal.

To write a Ph.D. dissertation proposal:

• Choose a research topic.
• Develop a clear problem statement.
• Outline objectives and methodology.
• Review literature.
• Present a timeline.
• Seek feedback from advisors.
• Revise and finalize the proposal before submission.

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How to Write a Proposal for a Finance Dissertation

At about 15 to 30 pages, a finance dissertation proposal is your first step in the path toward the completion of your doctoral dissertation and a critical one in developing your research "platform." A finance-oriented dissertation might be a multi-chapter treatment of a single topic in economics or related fields, or it could be a presentation of self-contained essays. Either type will benefit from a scrupulously planned proposal. As you write and plan your dissertation proposal, be sure to cover the main elements and work with faculty members to hone it further.

Plan, Formulate

Narrow down and specify a topic. Aim for precision. You are looking to carve out a manageable topic or set of focused questions from a range of broad issues.

Determine which issues must be included in your research and which ones you will not cover. This may not be evident right away, but from initially outlining a proposal and then expanding on your outline, you will learn the specific parameters of your project.

Assess how much time you will need until completion. You will also need to develop a budget for the proposed research and share this with the committee chair.

Summarize the problem. Briefly state in one or two paragraphs what your finance dissertation will do and how it will accomplish it. In clear but general terms ascertain the problem or questions you will be tackling and the conceptual framework for it. Point out why this will be an interesting and worthwhile topic.

Review the existing literature. Concisely discuss any recent and key work related to your topic and address how your work will advance or build on these previous studies. Justify the importance of the research you intend to conduct in light of the present status of similar research in the field.

Outline your plan of research. Give a broad overview of what the reader can expect in terms of theoretical frameworks, empirical implementation of the framework (if pertinent) as well as any conclusions you hope to draw. Make explicit what outcomes you will or will not be able to deliver in the final dissertation. Also state any limitations and assumptions that could affect these outcomes.

Establish your theoretical framework. State any specific hypotheses or research questions you will address in your dissertation. Define variables and constructs. If you are developing or working with a model, describe how you will evaluate this model.

Explain your methodology. Be explicit here. Explain why your chosen methodology is appropriate for each research question or hypothesis. Pinpoint data collection and data analysis procedures. If you use a questionnaire, provide a sample of major question types. If your research involves conducting an experiment, describe your subjects, apparatus, procedures and instruments for data collection. Include a technical appendix in which you list any estimation techniques and how you will obtain your data in addition to any computer programs you will need to use in this study. In the area of finance, programs such as LaTeX, Stata and MATLAB may be especially relevant. Find out which tools are available in your department and show how they will be used in your analysis.

State the project's feasibility and originality. Show how the proposed research is both performable within a reasonable amount of time and original to warrant acceptance for a Ph.D. degree. Elaborate as to how you are improving on the current literature.

Outline chapter headings. Detail major headings and subheadings for each chapter with a brief description thereof.

Cite references used in the body of the proposal.

Discuss With Advisers

Get approval from your adviser. This could involve obtaining two signatures from faculty members who find the proposal acceptable.

Make the suggested changes to the dissertation proposal and recirculate it to the faculty committee overseeing your project.

File the finance dissertation proposal plus any attached memos with the graduate coordinator. Any substantive amendments to the original proposal must be submitted in writing to the supervising committee.

• Terry College of Business: Dissertation Proposal Guidelines
• Boston College: Academic Policies and Procedures

Timothea Xi has been writing business and finance articles since 2013. She has worked as an alternative investment adviser in Miami, specializing in managed futures. Xi has also worked as a stockbroker in New York City.

Research Proposal Example/Sample

Detailed Walkthrough + Free Proposal Template

If you’re getting started crafting your research proposal and are looking for a few examples of research proposals , you’ve come to the right place.

In this video, we walk you through two successful (approved) research proposals , one for a Master’s-level project, and one for a PhD-level dissertation. We also start off by unpacking our free research proposal template and discussing the four core sections of a research proposal, so that you have a clear understanding of the basics before diving into the actual proposals.

• Research proposal example/sample – Master’s-level (PDF/Word)
• Research proposal example/sample – PhD-level (PDF/Word)
• Proposal template (Fully editable) 

If you’re working on a research proposal for a dissertation or thesis, you may also find the following useful:

• Research Proposal Bootcamp : Learn how to write a research proposal as efficiently and effectively as possible
• 1:1 Proposal Coaching : Get hands-on help with your research proposal

PS – If you’re working on a dissertation, be sure to also check out our collection of dissertation and thesis examples here .

FAQ: Research Proposal Example

Research proposal example: frequently asked questions, are the sample proposals real.

Yes. The proposals are real and were approved by the respective universities.

Can I copy one of these proposals for my own research?

As we discuss in the video, every research proposal will be slightly different, depending on the university’s unique requirements, as well as the nature of the research itself. Therefore, you’ll need to tailor your research proposal to suit your specific context.

You can learn more about the basics of writing a research proposal here .

How do I get the research proposal template?

You can access our free proposal template here .

Is the proposal template really free?

Yes. There is no cost for the proposal template and you are free to use it as a foundation for your research proposal.

Where can I learn more about proposal writing?

For self-directed learners, our Research Proposal Bootcamp is a great starting point.

For students that want hands-on guidance, our private coaching service is recommended.

Psst… there’s more!

This post is an extract from our bestselling short course, Research Proposal Bootcamp . If you want to work smart, you don't want to miss this .

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• How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

How to Write a Research Proposal | Examples & Templates

Published on October 12, 2022 by Shona McCombes and Tegan George. Revised on November 21, 2023.

A research proposal describes what you will investigate, why it’s important, and how you will conduct your research.

The format of a research proposal varies between fields, but most proposals will contain at least these elements:

Introduction

Literature review.

• Research design

Reference list

While the sections may vary, the overall objective is always the same. A research proposal serves as a blueprint and guide for your research plan, helping you get organized and feel confident in the path forward you choose to take.

Table of contents

Research proposal purpose, research proposal examples, research design and methods, contribution to knowledge, research schedule, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research proposals.

Academics often have to write research proposals to get funding for their projects. As a student, you might have to write a research proposal as part of a grad school application , or prior to starting your thesis or dissertation .

In addition to helping you figure out what your research can look like, a proposal can also serve to demonstrate why your project is worth pursuing to a funder, educational institution, or supervisor.

Research proposal length

The length of a research proposal can vary quite a bit. A bachelor’s or master’s thesis proposal can be just a few pages, while proposals for PhD dissertations or research funding are usually much longer and more detailed. Your supervisor can help you determine the best length for your work.

One trick to get started is to think of your proposal’s structure as a shorter version of your thesis or dissertation , only without the results , conclusion and discussion sections.

Download our research proposal template

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Writing a research proposal can be quite challenging, but a good starting point could be to look at some examples. We’ve included a few for you below.

• Example research proposal #1: “A Conceptual Framework for Scheduling Constraint Management”
• Example research proposal #2: “Medical Students as Mediators of Change in Tobacco Use”

Like your dissertation or thesis, the proposal will usually have a title page that includes:

• The proposed title of your project
• Your supervisor’s name
• Your institution and department

The first part of your proposal is the initial pitch for your project. Make sure it succinctly explains what you want to do and why.

Your introduction should:

• Introduce your topic
• Give necessary background and context
• Outline your  problem statement  and research questions

To guide your introduction , include information about:

• Who could have an interest in the topic (e.g., scientists, policymakers)
• How much is already known about the topic
• What is missing from this current knowledge
• What new insights your research will contribute
• Why you believe this research is worth doing

Receive feedback on language, structure, and formatting

Professional editors proofread and edit your paper by focusing on:

• Academic style
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See an example

As you get started, it’s important to demonstrate that you’re familiar with the most important research on your topic. A strong literature review  shows your reader that your project has a solid foundation in existing knowledge or theory. It also shows that you’re not simply repeating what other people have already done or said, but rather using existing research as a jumping-off point for your own.

In this section, share exactly how your project will contribute to ongoing conversations in the field by:

• Comparing and contrasting the main theories, methods, and debates
• Examining the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches
• Explaining how will you build on, challenge, or synthesize prior scholarship

Following the literature review, restate your main  objectives . This brings the focus back to your own project. Next, your research design or methodology section will describe your overall approach, and the practical steps you will take to answer your research questions.

To finish your proposal on a strong note, explore the potential implications of your research for your field. Emphasize again what you aim to contribute and why it matters.

For example, your results might have implications for:

• Improving best practices
• Informing policymaking decisions
• Strengthening a theory or model
• Challenging popular or scientific beliefs
• Creating a basis for future research

Last but not least, your research proposal must include correct citations for every source you have used, compiled in a reference list . To create citations quickly and easily, you can use our free APA citation generator .

Some institutions or funders require a detailed timeline of the project, asking you to forecast what you will do at each stage and how long it may take. While not always required, be sure to check the requirements of your project.

Here’s an example schedule to help you get started. You can also download a template at the button below.

Download our research schedule template

If you are applying for research funding, chances are you will have to include a detailed budget. This shows your estimates of how much each part of your project will cost.

Make sure to check what type of costs the funding body will agree to cover. For each item, include:

• Cost : exactly how much money do you need?
• Justification : why is this cost necessary to complete the research?
• Source : how did you calculate the amount?

To determine your budget, think about:

• Travel costs : do you need to go somewhere to collect your data? How will you get there, and how much time will you need? What will you do there (e.g., interviews, archival research)?
• Materials : do you need access to any tools or technologies?
• Help : do you need to hire any research assistants for the project? What will they do, and how much will you pay them?

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

• Sampling methods
• Simple random sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Likert scales
• Reproducibility

 Statistics

• Null hypothesis
• Statistical power
• Probability distribution
• Effect size
• Poisson distribution

Research bias

• Optimism bias
• Cognitive bias
• Implicit bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Anchoring bias
• Explicit bias

Once you’ve decided on your research objectives , you need to explain them in your paper, at the end of your problem statement .

Keep your research objectives clear and concise, and use appropriate verbs to accurately convey the work that you will carry out for each one.

I will compare …

A research aim is a broad statement indicating the general purpose of your research project. It should appear in your introduction at the end of your problem statement , before your research objectives.

Research objectives are more specific than your research aim. They indicate the specific ways you’ll address the overarching aim.

A PhD, which is short for philosophiae doctor (doctor of philosophy in Latin), is the highest university degree that can be obtained. In a PhD, students spend 3–5 years writing a dissertation , which aims to make a significant, original contribution to current knowledge.

A PhD is intended to prepare students for a career as a researcher, whether that be in academia, the public sector, or the private sector.

A master’s is a 1- or 2-year graduate degree that can prepare you for a variety of careers.

All master’s involve graduate-level coursework. Some are research-intensive and intend to prepare students for further study in a PhD; these usually require their students to write a master’s thesis . Others focus on professional training for a specific career.

Critical thinking refers to the ability to evaluate information and to be aware of biases or assumptions, including your own.

Like information literacy , it involves evaluating arguments, identifying and solving problems in an objective and systematic way, and clearly communicating your ideas.

The best way to remember the difference between a research plan and a research proposal is that they have fundamentally different audiences. A research plan helps you, the researcher, organize your thoughts. On the other hand, a dissertation proposal or research proposal aims to convince others (e.g., a supervisor, a funding body, or a dissertation committee) that your research topic is relevant and worthy of being conducted.

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200 Finance Dissertation Topics: Quick Ideas For Students

Finance dissertation topics are on-demand in the 21st century. But why is this so? It may perplex you how everyone is up and down looking for interesting, quality finance topics. However, the answer is simple: because fascinating finance dissertation topics can earn students bonus points.

We will delve into that in just a second. Your finance topic dictates the difficulty of the assignment you are going to handle. Landing on the right topic means that you will not have to toil as much as when you pick a highly complex topic. Does it make sense?

Let’s explore the nitty-gritty of finance dissertation papers before we get into mentioning the top-rated finance research topics list.

What Is A Finance Dissertation?

As the name goes, finance dissertation is a kind of writing that investigates a particular finance topic selected by the student. The topics range from the stock market, banking, and risk management to healthcare finance topics.

This dissertation provides the student with a degree of academic self-confidence and personal satisfaction in the finance field. Finance writing requires extensive research to create a persuasive paper in the end.

Writing Tips For Finance Dissertations

Are you uncertain concerning what you need to do to compose a top-notch finance dissertation? Worry no more! Our professional writers have put together some essential suggestions to kick you off. In the next few minutes, you will be in a position to create a perfect finance dissertation painstakingly:

• Narrow down your topic : Trim down your finance topic to a specific niche. It should focus on one region; either micro-finance, macro-finance, or internet banking.
• Verify your facts : Finance is a field that includes a lot of statistical data to be followed logically. Therefore, verify facts and figures with reliable sources before opting to use them in your paper.
• Write concisely : Unlike other papers with long narrative tales, you should encapsulate a finance paper into a tight, concise paper. The rule of ‘short is sweet’ technically applies here at great length.
• Arrange your data neatly : A paper that is stuffed with numerals and charts all over may turn down a reader at first sight. For an impressive finance thesis, know-how and when to use your data.
• Write simply : Avoid jargon that may confuse an ordinary reader. Where a need is for technical terms to be used, illustrate them with relatable examples. Simplicity is gold in a finance dissertation. So, use it well.

With these tips and tricks, you are all set to start writing your finance paper. We now advance to another crucial part that will make sure your finance paper is refined and at per with your institution’s academic standards.

General Structure of a Finance Dissertation

It is crucial to consult your supervisor regarding your dissertation’s research methodology, structure, style, and reasonable length. Depending on the guidance of your supervisor, the structure may vary. Nonetheless, as a general guide, ensure the following sections are part and parcel of your dissertation:

• Introduction: State the problem that you intend to address in your dissertation. It also includes a definition of key terms, the relevance of the topic and a summary of hypotheses.
• Theoretical and empirical literature, hypotheses development and contribution: It provides the theoretical framework of your study. The hypotheses are based on the literature review.
• Data and methodology: State the model (i.e. dependent and key independent variables) that you want to use the drawing on theoretical framework or economic argument that you may employ for your analysis. Define all control variables and describe the data used to test the hypothesis.
• Empirical results: Describe the results and mention whether they are consistent with the hypotheses and relate them with the existing evidence in the literature. You will also describe the statistical and practical/economic significance of your findings.
• Summary and conclusion: Summarize your research and state the general conclusion with relevant implications.

It is important to have all the dataset you want to use readily available before finalizing the topic. The dataset is essential for testing your hypotheses.

There are thousands of research topics for finance students available all over the internet and academic books. You only have to browse and lookup for the latest research or refer to past readings or course lectures.

Even though this exercise may look simple enough on the surface, it takes a lot of time to consider what makes for interesting finance topics adequately. Not all ideas you find will achieve the academic requirements that your supervisor expects from you.

Here is a list of freshly mint topics to use for numerous finance situations:

Impressive Healthcare Finance Topics

Healthcare involves more than just treating patients and administering injections. There are finance aspects that also come into play, including:

• Strategies for marketplace achievement in turbulent times: Medical staff marketing
• Effects of the employer executive compensation and benefits plan after the Tax Reform Act of 1986
• Improving profitability through accelerating philanthropic giving to healthcare systems
• Acceleration and effective information strategies for cash management in hospitals
• Finding the system’s solution to health care cost accounting
• How hospitals spend money from charitable organizations and donor funding
• Models of enhancing cost accounting efforts by improving existing information sources
• Strategies of increasing cash flow with a patient accounting review
• A systematic review of productivity, cost accounting, and information systems
• A study of the cost accounting strategies under the prospective payment system
• How to manage bad debt and charity care accounts in hospitals
• Achieving more value from managed care efforts in healthcare systems
• Strategies of achieving economies of scale through shared ancillary and support services
• Profitable ways of financing the acquisition of a health care enterprise
• Effects of mergers and acquisitions on private hospitals
• Measuring nursing costs with patient acuity data in hospitals
• Affordable treatment and care for long-term and terminal diseases
• Survey of the organization and structure of a hospital’s administration concerning financing
• Impact of culture and globalization on healthcare financing
• Discuss the necessity for universal health coverage in the United States

Finance Management Project Topics

If you are a finance management enthusiast, this section will impress you the most:

• The impact of corrupt bank managers on its sustainability
• How banks finance small and medium-scale enterprises
• Loan granting and its recovery problems on commercial banks
• An evaluation of credit management in the banking industry
• The role of microfinance banks in the alleviation of poverty in the US
• Comparative evaluation strategies in mergers and acquisitions
• How to plan and invest in the insurance sector and tax planning
• Impact of shareholders on decision-making processes on banks
• How diversity in banks affects management and leadership practices
• Credit management techniques that work for small scale enterprises
• Appraisal on the impact of effective credit management on the profitability of commercial banks
• The impact of quantitative tools of monetary policy on the performance of deposit of commercial banks
• Financial management practices in the insurance industry and risk management
• The role of the capital market in economic development
• Problems facing financial institutions to the growth of small scale business in the USA
• Why training and development of human resources is a critical factor in bank operations
• The impact of universal banking financial system on the credibility
• Security threats to effective management in banks
• The effect of fiscal and monetary policy in controlling unemployment
• The effects of financial leverage on company performance

Topics in Mathematics With Applications in Finance

Mathematics and finance correlate in several ways in that they borrow concepts from each other. Here are some of the mathematics concepts that apply to finance paper topics:

• Linear algebra
• Probability theory
• Stochastic processes
• Regression analysis
• Value at risk models
• Time series analysis
• Volatility modelling
• Regularized pricing and risk models
• Commodity models
• Portfolio theory
• Factor modelling
• Stochastic differential equations
• Ross recovery theorem
• Option, price, and probability duality
• Black-Scholes formula, Risk-neutral valuation
• Introduction to counterparty credit risk
• HJM model for interest rates and credit
• Quanto credit hedging
• Calculus in finance and its application

International Finance Topics

International finance research topics deal with a range of monetary exchanges between two or more nations. Below is a list of international research topics in finance for you to browse through and pick a relevant one:

• A study of the most important concepts in international finance
• How internal auditing enhances good corporate governance practice in an organization
• Factors that affect the capital structure of Go Public manufacturing companies
• A financial engineering perspective on the causes of large price changes
• Corporate governance and board of directors responsibilities
• An exploratory study on the management of support services in international organizations
• An accounting perspective of the need for theorizing corporation
• Impact of coronavirus on international trade relations
• Is business ethics attainable in the global market arena
• How exchange rates affect international trading
• The role of currency derivatives in shaping the global market
• How to improve international capital structure
• How to forecast exchange rates
• Ways of measuring exposure to exchange rates fluctuations
• How to hedge exposure to exchange rates fluctuations globally
• How foreign direct investment puts individual countries at risk
• How to stabilize international capital markets
• A study of shadow banking in the global environment
• A comparative analysis of Western markets and African markets
• Exploring the monetary funding opportunities by the International Monetary Fund

Corporate Finance Research Topics

These 20 topics have the potential to help you write an amazing corporate finance paper, provided you have the will to work hard on your paper:

• Short- and long-term investment needs for working capital trends
• Identifying proper capital structure models for a company
• How capital structure and an organization’s funding of its operations relate
• Corporate finance decision making in unstable stock markets
• The effect of firm size on financial decision making incorporates
• Compare and contrast the different internationally recognized corporate financial reporting standards
• Evaluate the emerging concept integrated reporting in corporate finance
• Managing transparency in corporate financial decisions
• How technological connectivity has helped in integrated financial management
• How different investment models contribute to the success of a corporate
• The essence of valuation of cash flows in financial and non-financial corporates
• Identify the prevalent financial innovations in the USA
• Ways in which governance influences corporate financial activities
• Impact of taxes on dividend policies in developed nations
• How corporate strategies related to corporate finance
• Implications of the global economic crisis in the backdrop of corporate finance concepts
• How information technology impact corporate relations among companies
• Evaluate the effectiveness of corporate financing tools and techniques
• How do FDI strategies compare in Europe and Asia?
• The role of transparency and liquidity in alternative corporate investments

Finance Debate Topics

These finance debate topics are formulated in keeping with emerging financial issues globally:

• Is China’s economy on the verge of ousting that of the US?
• Does the dynamic nature of the global market affect the financial alienations of countries?
• Is Foreign Direct Investment in retail sector good for the US?
• Is it possible to maintain stable oil prices in the world?
• Are multinational corporations good for the global economy?
• Does the country of origin matter in selling a product?
• Are financial companies misusing ethics in marketing?
• Why should consumer always be king in marketing messages?
• Does commercialization serve in the best interest of the consumer?
• Why should companies bother having a mission statement?
• Why should hospitals receive tax subsidies and levies on drugs?
• Is television the best medium for advertisement?
• Is the guarantor principle security or a myth?
• Compare and contrast market trends in capitalism versus Marxism states
• Does the name of a business have an impact on its development record?
• Is it the responsibility of the government to finance small-scale business enterprises?
• Does budgeting truly serve its purpose in a company?
• Why should agricultural imports be banned?
• Is advertising a waste of company resources?
• Why privatization will lead to less corruption in companies

Finance Topics For Presentation

Is your group or individual finance presentation giving you sleepless nights just because you do not have a topic? Worry no more!

• The role of diplomatic ties in enhancing financial relations between countries
• Should banks use force when recovering loans from long-term defaulters?
• Why mortgages are becoming difficult to repay among the middle class
• Ways of improving the skilled workforce in developing
• How technology creates income disparities among social classes
• The role of rational thinking in making financial decisions
• How much capital is necessary for a start-up?
• Are investments in betting firms good for young people?
• How co-operatives are important in promoting communism in a society
• Why should countries stop receiving foreign aids and depend on themselves?
• Compare and contrast the performance of private sectors over public sectors
• How frequent should reforms be conducted in companies?
• How globalization affects nationalism
• Theories of financial development that is still applicable today
• Should business people head the finance ministry of countries?
• The impact of the transport sector on revenue and tax collection
• The impact of space exploration on the country’s economy
• How regional blocs are impacting developing nations
• Factors contributing to the growth of online scams
• What is the impact of trade unions in promoting businesses?

Finance Research Topics For MBA

Here is our best list of top-rated MBA financial topics to write about in 2023, which will generate more passion for a debate:

• Evaluate the effect of the Global crisis to use the line of credit in maintaining cash flow
• Discuss options for investment in the shipping industry in the US
• Financial risk management in the maritime industry: A case study of the blue economy
• Analyze the various financial risk indicators
• Financial laws that prevent volatility in the financial market
• How the global recession has impacted domestic banking industries
• Discuss IMF’s initiatives in tackling internal inefficiency of new projects
• How the WTO is essential in the global financial market
• The link between corporate and capital structures
• Why is it important to have an individual investment?
• How to handle credit crisis in financial marketing
• Financial planning for salaried employee and strategies for tax savings
• A study on Cost And Costing Models in Companies
• A critical study on investment patterns and preferences of retail investors
• Risk portfolio and perception management of equity investors
• Is there room for improvement in electronic payment systems?
• Risks and opportunities of investments versus savings
• Impact of investor awareness towards commodities in the market
• Is taxation a selling tool for life insurance
• Impact of earnings per share

Public Finance Topics

These interesting finance topics may augur well with university students majoring in public finance:

• Financial assistance for businesses and workers during Coronavirus lockdowns
• Debt sustainability in developing countries
• How we can use public money to leverage private funds
• Analyze the use of public funds in developed versus developing countries
• The reliability of sovereign credit ratings for investors in government securities
• Propose a method of analysis on the cost-benefit ratio of any government project
• The role of entities in charge of financial intermediation
• The reciprocity and impact of tariff barriers
• Impact of the exempted goods prices on the trade deficit
• Investor penalties and its impact in the form of taxes and penalties
• Public government projects that use private funds
• Ways of measuring the cost of sustainability
• Maintaining economic growth to avoid a strong recession
• The impact of the declining income and consumption rates
• Effects of quarantine and forced suspension of economic activity
• Innovative means of limiting the scale of pandemic development
• The growing scale of the public debt of the public finance system
• A critical analysis of the epidemiological safety instruments used in countries
• The growing debt crisis of the state finance system
• How to permanently improve and increase the scale of anti-crisis socio-economic policy planning

Business Finance Topics

You can address the following business finance research papers topics for your next assignment:

• How organizations are raising and managing funds
• Analyze the planning, analysis, and control operations and responsibilities of the financial manager
• Why business managers should take advantage of the federal stimulus package
• Economical ways of negotiating for lower monthly bills
• Evaluate the best retirement plans for entrepreneurs
• Tax reform changes needed to spearhead businesses to the next level
• How politicians can help small businesses make it to the top
• Setting up life insurance policies from which you can sidestep the banks and loan yourself money
• Why every business manager should know about profit and loss statements, revenue by customers and more.
• Advantages of creating multiple corporations to business entrepreneurs
• Why good liquidity is a vital weapon in the face of a crisis
• Reasons why many people are declaring bankruptcy during the coronavirus pandemic
• Why you should closely examine the numbers before making any financial decisions
• Benefits of corporations to small scale business ventures
• How to start a business without money at hand
• Strategies for improving your company’s online presence
• Discuss the challenge of debt versus equity for small-scale businesses
• The impact of financial decisions on the profitability and the risk of a firm’s operations
• Striking a balance between risk and profitability
• Why taking the ratio of current assets to current liabilities is important to any business

You can use any of the hot topics mentioned above for your finance dissertation paper or opt for our thesis writing services. We have competitive finance dissertation writing experts ready to tackle your paper to the core.

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• Dissertation Proposal

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Proposal Overview and Format

Proposal committee, proposal hearing or meeting.

• Printing Credit for Use in School of Education Labs

Students are urged to begin thinking about a dissertation topic early in their degree program. Concentrated work on a dissertation proposal normally begins after successful completion of the Second-Year Review, which often includes a “mini” proposal, an extended literature review, or a theoretical essay, plus advancement to doctoral candidacy. In defining a dissertation topic, the student collaborates with their faculty advisor or dissertation advisor (if one is selected) in the choice of a topic for the dissertation.

The dissertation proposal is a comprehensive statement on the extent and nature of the student’s dissertation research interests. Students submit a draft of the proposal to their dissertation advisor between the end of the seventh and middle of the ninth quarters. The student must provide a written copy of the proposal to the faculty committee no later than two weeks prior to the date of the proposal hearing. Committee members could require an earlier deadline (e.g., four weeks before the hearing).

The major components of the proposal are as follows, with some variations across Areas and disciplines:

• A detailed statement of the problem that is to be studied and the context within which it is to be seen. This should include a justification of the importance of the problem on both theoretical and educational grounds.
• A thorough review of the literature pertinent to the research problem. This review should provide proof that the relevant literature in the field has been thoroughly researched. Good research is cumulative; it builds on the thoughts, findings, and mistakes of others.
• its general explanatory interest
• the overall theoretical framework within which this interest is to be pursued
• the model or hypotheses to be tested or the research questions to be answered
• a discussion of the conceptual and operational properties of the variables
• an overview of strategies for collecting appropriate evidence (sampling, instrumentation, data collection, data reduction, data analysis)
• a discussion of how the evidence is to be interpreted (This aspect of the proposal will be somewhat different in fields such as history and philosophy of education.)
• If applicable, students should complete a request for approval of research with human subjects, using the Human Subjects Review Form ( http://humansubjects.stanford.edu/ ). Except for pilot work, the University requires the approval of the Administrative Panel on Human Subjects in Behavioral Science Research before any data can be collected from human subjects.

Registration (i.e., enrollment) is required for any quarter during which a degree requirement is completed, including the dissertation proposal. Refer to the Registration or Enrollment for Milestone Completion section for more details.

As students progress through the program, their interests may change. There is no commitment on the part of the student’s advisor to automatically serve as the dissertation chair. Based on the student’s interests and the dissertation topic, many students approach other GSE professors to serve as the dissertation advisor, if appropriate.

A dissertation proposal committee is comprised of three academic council faculty members, one of whom will serve as the major dissertation advisor. Whether or not the student’s general program advisor serves on the dissertation proposal committee and later the reading committee will depend on the relevance of that faculty member’s expertise to the topic of the dissertation, and their availability. There is no requirement that a program advisor serve, although very often they do. Members of the dissertation proposal committee may be drawn from other area committees within the GSE, from other departments in the University, or from emeriti faculty. At least one person serving on the proposal committee must be from the student’s area committee (CTE, DAPS, SHIPS). All three members must be on the Academic Council; if the student desires the expertise of a non-Academic Council member, it may be possible to petition. After the hearing, a memorandum listing the changes to be made will be written and submitted with the signed proposal cover sheet and a copy of the proposal itself to the Doctoral Programs Officer.

Review and approval of the dissertation proposal occurs normally during the third year. The proposal hearing seeks to review the quality and feasibility of the proposal. The Second-Year Review and the Proposal Hearing are separate milestones and may not occur as part of the same hearing or meeting.

The student and the dissertation advisor are responsible for scheduling a formal meeting or hearing to review the proposal; the student and proposal committee convene for this evaluative period. Normally, all must be present at the meeting either in person or via conference phone call.

At the end of this meeting, the dissertation proposal committee members should sign the Cover Sheet for Dissertation Proposal and indicate their approval or rejection of the proposal. This signed form should be submitted to the Doctoral Programs Officer. If the student is required to make revisions, an addendum is required with the written approval of each member of the committee stating that the proposal has been revised to their satisfaction.

After submitting the Proposal Hearing material to the Doctoral Programs Officer, the student should make arrangements with three faculty members to serve on their Dissertation Reading Committee. The Doctoral Dissertation Reading Committee form should be completed and given to the Doctoral Programs Officer to enter in the University student records system. Note: The proposal hearing committee and the reading committee do not have to be the same three faculty members. Normally, the proposal hearing precedes the designation of a Dissertation Reading Committee, and faculty on either committee may differ (except for the primary dissertation advisor). However, some students may advance to Terminal Graduate Registration (TGR) status before completing their dissertation proposal hearing if they have established a dissertation reading committee. In these cases, it is acceptable for the student to form a reading committee prior to the dissertation proposal hearing. The reading committee then serves as the proposal committee.

The proposal and reading committee forms and related instructions are on the GSE website, under current students>forms.

Printing Credit for Use in GSE Labs

Upon completion of their doctoral dissertation proposal, GSE students are eligible for a $300 printing credit redeemable in any of the GSE computer labs where students are normally charged for print jobs. Only one $300 credit per student will be issued, but it is usable throughout the remainder of her or his doctoral program until the balance is exhausted. The print credit can be used only at the printers in Cubberley basement and CERAS, and cannot be used toward copying.

After submitting the signed dissertation proposal cover sheet to the Doctoral Programs Officer indicating approval (see above), students can submit a HELP SU ticket online at helpsu.stanford.edu to request the credit. When submitting the help ticket, the following should be selected from the drop-down menus for HELP SU:

Request Category :  Computer, Handhelds (PDAs), Printers, Servers Request Type :  Printer Operating System : (whatever system is used by the student, e.g., Windows XP.)

The help ticket will be routed to the GSE's IT Group for processing; they will in turn notify the student via email when the credit is available.

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• Second Year (6th Quarter) Review
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Dissertation Topic in Finance

• Updated on  
• Jan 11, 2024

Also known as the study of investments, Finance is a combination of two interrelated subjects – how money is handled and the process of obtaining money. One of the reasons why postgraduate students struggle with their Finance dissertation topics is that they do not spend enough time planning it. It is important for students to be extremely careful while writing a finance dissertation as it contributes a lot to their respective degrees. This blog provides you with the best topics, a dissertation structure, and more. 

This Blog Includes:

What is a finance dissertation, why finance dissertation topics are important, tips to find excellent dissertation topics on finance, writing tips for finance dissertation, how to plan your work on a finance dissertation, how to structure a finance dissertation, finance dissertation general topics , topics related to india, mba dissertation topics, banking dissertation topics , accounting dissertation topics, research project example, final consideration and conclusion.

Finance dissertations, as the name implies, are pieces of writing that study a certain finance topic chosen by the student. The subjects covered include anything from the stock market to banking and risk management to healthcare finance. This dissertation gives the student academic self-assurance and personal happiness in the subject of finance. Finance writing necessitates substantial research in order to produce a compelling report.

The majority of students have no idea why finance dissertation themes are so crucial. However, put yourself in the shoes of your lecturer. You’ve already read hundreds of theses. The majority of them covered the same ground — issues that you’re already tired of hearing about. Then there’s a topic with a distinct, intriguing theme. Something that piques your interest and entices you to read more. Wouldn’t you give those pupils some extra credit? You’d do it! This is why there are so many fantastic finance dissertation topics. You can get extra points for your efforts. The topic of your paper might mean the difference between a good and a terrific grade.

It’s difficult to come up with anything unique and interesting. There are, nevertheless, ways to come up with interesting ideas. Here are a few pointers on how to locate them:

• Read a fantastic finance dissertation and find for areas where further study is needed.
• Go to the library and read a couple theses to get some ideas.
• Inquire with a writing agency about some ideas from one of their professional dissertation writers.
• In writing forums and blogs, ask for assistance. If you ask gently, people will give you some excellent suggestions.
• Look for ideas on the internet, but don’t use them exactly as they are. Make them distinctive by changing them.
• Talk to other students who are working on their dissertations and find out what other ideas they had before settling on the present topic.
• Narrow down your topic : Your financial topic should be narrowed down to a certain niche. It should concentrate on a single area, such as microfinance, microfinance, or online banking.
• Verify your facts: Finance is a topic that requires a great deal of logical analysis of statistical data. As a result, double-check facts and statistics using credible sources before using them in your paper.
• Write concisely: You should condense a financial paper into a tight, succinct work, unlike other papers with extended narrative narratives. At this length, the adage of ‘short is sweet’ theoretically applies.
• Arrange your data neatly: A report that is crammed with numbers and graphs may turn off a reader at first glance. Know how and when to utilise your data for a great financial thesis.
• Write simply: Avoid using jargon that might be confusing to a non-technical reader. When technical terminology are required, utilise accessible examples to convey them. In a finance dissertation, simplicity is king. So make good use of it.

Dissertation submission is very important to obtain a PG Degree. You are supposed to submit the work by the end of your study course, so by the last year of your degree, you may have got enough ideas and problems dealing with finance. While starting with a finance dissertation topic you should always remember that the purpose of a Finance Dissertation is to demonstrate your research ability, how you analyze specific data and come up with a conclusion. Mentioned below is a step to step guide for you to start working with:

Step 1 : Choose a relevant and interesting topic for your research

Step 2 : Discuss and receive feedback from your supervisor

Step 3 : Finalise the research methods to prove the significance of the selected topic

Step 4 : Gather the required data from relevant sources

Step 5 : Conduct the research and analyse the acquired results

Step 6 : Work on the outline of your dissertation

Step 7 : Make a draft and proofread it. Discuss with your advisors if any changes are to be made

Step 8 : Make the required corrections. 

Step 9 : Draft the final dissertation

Also Read: Check out the Top Course in Finance

There are so many different ways you can structure your dissertation. But the most common and universally accepted way is as follows:

• Introduction
• Literature review
• Methodology
• Analysis of the data and Significance/Implications of the acquired results

Also Read: Executive MBA in Finance

Finance Dissertation Topics

Finance is an extensive field, you can explore a lot of areas related to finance to choose a dissertation topic. Here we’ve mentioned the best finance dissertation topics to make it easier for you:

Mentioned below are some of the topics related to the recent issues in the world:

• The negative impact of microfinance in developing countries.
• The effects of population growth on economic growth in China
• Cryptocurrency: Are we ready to digitalise the monetary world?
• Analyzing the financial statements of VISA and MasterCard
• Why do banks oppose digital currency?
• Risks and benefits associated with digital money transferring technology

Also Read: Top MBA course to pursue

• Investing in India’s technology sector – obstacles and opportunities
• Foreign investment and its effects on economic growth in India
• The effect of corporation investments in the economic development of the community
• Comparing financial development in Asia and Europe
• Did the banks help Small Medium Enterprises to grow in India in the last 5 years?
• The Indian Economic Crisis of 1991

Best MBA Dissertation Topics

Be careful while choosing an MBA Dissertation Topic as it involves more intense study. Make sure the topic you’ve chosen remains within your field of study. We’ve listed some of the best topics you can choose for an MBA Dissertation:

• Management skills an entrepreneur need
• The place of communication for effective management in the workplace
• How technology took over management
• The impact of good leadership in an organization
• How does a strong social media presence affect a company’s marketing strategies?
• Human resource management in non-profit organizations
• The importance of employee motivation programs on productivity
• Management’s socio-cultural background and how it influences leadership relationships
• How do employment benefits impact employee and company’s productivity?
• Business team performance in multinational corporations

Best Finance Universities in the USA

• Study on Future Options in Markets in India
• Gold as an Investable Commodity in India
• Study on Impact Of Corruption On FDI Inflows In India
• The Impact Of The Money Supply On Economic Growth In India
• Capital Structure Of The Business Enterprises In Delhi NCR
• GST And Its Effect on MNC Manufacturing Companies
• Analysis of the Insurance Industry in India
• Analysis of HDFC Bank Finance
• Comparative analysis of HDFC Bank with ICICI bank
• Comparison of Market Share in Public Sector Banks VS Private Sector Banks
• The impact of online banking on the world.
• Risk factors and security issues that are inherent in online banking.
• Fraud and identity theft is accomplished via internet banking.
• Advantages and disadvantages of internet banking for consumers.
• Risk management in investment banking
• The rise of growing banking sectors in developing nations.
• Issues surrounding banking in China’s growing economy.
• The impact of the Federal Reserve on the United States and global economy
• Banking and asset-liability in management.
• The strategies to use online banking technology to attract customers.

All you need to know about  a Banking Course 

• Case study of the impact of industry and public knowledge on the market share index’s fluctuation
• Significance of auditing for large corporations
• Examining India’s country’s tax scheme
• What to consider when investing in financial markets?
• From an accounting perspective, risk-taking in companies and its effects
• Evaluate the differences and similarities between external and internal auditors
• Can taxation be considered a human rights policy? Analyse the problem
• What are the consequences of India’s current tax structure on individuals with a lower income?

Accounting courses

We’ve included a Finance Dissertation Research Example with reference to a Finance Dissertation Structure:

• The Indian Economic Crisis of 1991 – The title of your Finance Dissertation must focus on your research objective.
• Abstract  – The 1991 Indian economic crisis was…………….. imports and other external factors. The abstract part must include a summary of the research problem or objective of the research, the research design and a summary of the results.
• Introduction – The introduction must reflect your research on the Indian Economic Crisis of 1991 in a way that the audience already gets to know what the research is going to include. 

           3.1 Background (background of the study) 

           3.2 Problem Statement (significance of the problem in context)

           3.3 Purpose/Research Questions (What caused the Crisis, how was the crisis revived etc.)

• Review of Literature – The Review of Literature Section must include a theoretical rationale of the problem, the importance of the study, and the significance of the results.
• Methodology – The Methodology Section must include the description of the subjects, research methods used in the data collection and any limitations issues involved.
• Significance/Implications (Results of the Discussion)

*Please note that the above-mentioned structure is only for your reference to get an idea of writing a Finance Dissertation.

Choosing the right topic for your Finance dissertation to plan the work, all the above-mentioned aspects must be given equal importance. This blog has included the best dissertation topic in finance in MBA, accounting, and banking you can choose while writing a dissertation.

Finance research papers and dissertations should be prepared in a way that answers the core question while also being relevant to the remainder of the study. For example, if the dissertation’s major question is “what is the link between foreign exchange rates and the interest rates of a specific country,” the dissertation should provide suitable illustrations to help illustrate the topic. It should also go through the major and minor concerns that are relevant to this topic. Furthermore, utilise proper language to ensure that the article is readily understood by readers. The overall purpose of the project is to produce a well-written, well-researched, and well-supported dissertation.

It takes around 2 years to complete an MBA in India while 1 year to complete a full-time MBA in other countries.

A finance dissertation must be 100-300 pages long.

It takes around 5 years to obtain a Doctorate in Finance.

Hopefully, this blog assisted you in finding out your finance dissertation topics and structure for your course. If you require any assistance regarding your application process while enrolling for your further studies, our experts at Leverage Edu are just one click away. Call us anytime at 1800 572 000 for a free counselling session!

Damanpreet Kaur Vohra

Daman is an author with profound expertise in writing engaging and informative content focused on EdTech and Study Abroad. With a keen understanding of these domains, Daman excels at creating complex concepts into accessible, reader-friendly material. With a proven track record of insightful articles, Daman stands as a reliable source for providing content for EdTech and Study Abroad.

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Finance Dissertation Topics & Accounting Dissertation Topics

Choosing a great topic for your finance or accounting dissertation may seem incredibly challenging, especially since the subject can cover such a wide range of different areas. It is important to find a topic that you are passionate about and find genuinely interesting, but is also relevant, manageable, and potentially helpful with regards to your future career path. Plus, you want a topic that will impress your dissertation advisor and fall within their area of expertise. There are clearly a lot of things to consider, so to give you some inspiration and help get you started, we have come up with several lists of potential topics in all sorts of areas within the subject of finance and accounting.

• Covid-19 and its Impact on Financial Services Dissertation Topics
• Cryptocurrency Dissertation Topics

Audit in Financial Services Dissertation Topics

• Risk Management – Capital, Liquidity, ALM, Models Dissertation Topics

Internet Banking & Digital Journey for Banks Dissertation Topics

Ethics in accounting dissertation topics, microfinance dissertation topics, retail and commercial banking dissertation topics, financing in emerging market dissertation topics, alternative investment dissertation topics.

• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of Banking Industry Dissertation Topics

Accounting Standards Dissertation Topics

Education, perception and gender bias in accounting dissertation topics, covid – 19 and its impact on financial services dissertation topics.

Covid 19 has been a global pandemic and it has been seen to have grave impact on the overall world economy. The global and far reached impacts of the Covid 19 pandemic have made it an interesting topic of research. Some of the related topics for accounting and finance domain are:

• Does Covid-19 open an opportunity for digitization?
• Impact of covid on ecommerce industry.
• Covid and the rise in NPAs in Banks.
• The consequences of the Corona pandemic for future financial statements: A case Study.
• Are the companies becoming conservative in their forecasts after Covid 19?
• Digitalization in auditing and modified audit opinions in the post covid world.
• Do companies need to account for a better insurance policy after Covid 19?
• Provisioning and impairment by Banks and financial institutions. What impacts will it have on the balance sheet?

Cryptocurrencies Dissertation Topics

Recently in last couple of years, cryptocurrencies have gathered the attention of all investors and they have emerged as a lucrative asset class for investment. However, it is equally important that the topic is well read and well researched. The information on crypto currency is very fragmented and there is little academic research available on the topic. Some of the dissertation titles proposed are:

• Does crypto market follow the technical analysis?
• How to measure the risk and returns in cryptofinance market.
• Are crypto market returns sustainable?
• Under the supremacy of Bitcoin and Ethereum, what is the investment potential of other alt coins?
• Are cryptocurrencies a good asset for swing trading?
• Using a derivative strategy, is it possible to make cryptocurrencies less volatile?
• Comparison on cryptocurrencies with other asset classes.
• Asset pricing for cryptocurrencies. Do the regular theories work in this case?
• What is the scope for derivative products in crypto currencies?
• Cryptocurrency: Are we ready to demonetize the world?
• Why banks oppose digital currency so fiercely?

Audits have always been an interesting topic for the regulators and the stakeholders. They are always seen as a cost centre for the companies but invariably end up strengthening the controls for them. Also there have been a lot of new trends and technologies emerging in the field. Some of the topics for audits and their contribution to financial services are:

• Audits and their contribution to corporate houses.
• The Effectiveness of Internal Audit and Internal Control Systems in UK financial system.
• Are the BASEL rules successful to enhance the liquidity and controls for the banks?
• Role of Automation and RPA in the audit industry.
• Can auditors play the role of risk managers within a Bank or they are just cost centers?
• Effect of Internal Audit on financial performance of companies.
• Role of Auditors in financial reporting. A case study of Enron and WorldCom.
• Effectiveness of audits in the financial system of UK.
• The effect of risk-based audit approach on the enterprise risk strategy of the financial institution.
• The changes brought to Auditor-client relationships in the UK due to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
• Audit Committees and agency problems with the UK Corporate Governance Code.

Risk Management – Capital, Liquidity, ALM, Models Dissertation Topics

The Federal Reserve System has established a banking risk framework that consists of six risk factors: credit, market, operational, liquidity, legal, and reputation risks. All of the above-mentioned factors are an integral part of any financial institution’s risk management policies and the compliance mechanism which ultimately has a significant impact of the cusses of the institution.

Finance dissertation topics in risk management could include:

• Liquidity risk management in the UK banking industry in the wake of the financial crisis.
• An evaluation and analysis of the risk/return profile of selected UK banks.
• Operational risk & business continuity plans in the UK Banking Industry.
• Risk management aspects of international banking activities in Europe: nature, scope, and analysis.
• Foreign exchange risk management within financial institutions in the UK.
• The liability management of two local leading banks in the UK in the past five years: A comparative analysis.
• Advantages of using options for the management of risk in the banking industry.
• A stress testing approach towards evaluating credit risk of a financial institution.
• Case study on growth, liquidity, turnover, risk and return of a financial institution: Analysis and discussion.
• The potential impact of the loss of passporting after Brexit on the UK financial services industry.
• The potential impact of Brexit on the ability of UK banks to attract the most talented individuals.
• The impact of international risk exposures on the financial performance of UK banks.
• The effectiveness of the UK’s stress testing regime in preventing future financial crises in banking.
• Study of credit risk management in Banks.
• Role of Liquidity Risk Management and the best practices being followed in Banks.
• Do Capital management rules for financial institutions is a risk management strategy or a loss of opportunity?
• A study of risk management in the banking industry in the UK. What are the best practices for the other countries to follow?
• Analysis of Risk Management in Banking Activity – An Enterprise Risk Framework based approach.
• Asset liability management in commercial banking: Theoretical and practical aspects.
• Is operational risk management the next big thing in the risk management industry?
• IFRS9 related provisions provide cushions to financial service industry.
• Importance of Model risk management in financial industry.
• Importance and relevance of latest regulatory guidelines – FRTB and BCBS 239.
• Are banks ready to replace LIBOR?

Internet banking offers personal and business clients the ease of managing banking and financial enquires from the comfort of their home or office. Online banking has become a lifeline for those who cannot leave the house, live in rural areas where access to banks can be limited, or simply have no time to visit their nearest bank. Moreover, the evidence suggests that internet banking services have a significant impact on customer satisfaction, enhance demonetisation of the economy and contribute towards improved flow of funds within the economy.

Your dissertation could be based on the following dissertation topics:

• Future developments in Internet banking in the UK.
• Internet banking services across the UK vary widely: A comparative study.
• Security in electronic banking transactions.
• The marketing of internet banking services in the UK banking industry: Analysis, discussion, and recommendations.
• The economic and financial implications of online banking.
• Digital innovation in the banking industry in Europe and the UK: A comparative study.
• Use of banking services and internet banking: Is there a relationship?
• Digitalization and the related changes in the Banking Industry.
• Is digitalization disruptive in the banking sector?
• Impact of digitalization in the transaction banking.
• Will Fintechs survive in the longer term?
• Financial Inclusion, Digital Payments and Their Impact on Income and Tax Revenue across the globe.
• Best security practices for online banking and online transactions.
• How internet and mobile banking have changed the business landscape?
• Internet banking usage: Youth versus elderly population comparison.

Accounting as a profession has always been seen as a very skill based and respectable. Owing to the nature of the profession, it is highly based on trust and ethical code of conduct which ultimately leads to better financial reporting and decision making by the management. The increasing number of scandals in recent times has raised several questions regarding ethical practices in accounting. The issue not only requires further studies to understand the existing practices and the scope of improvement, but also a culture of adapting the ethical practices within the organisations serving citizens of the nations. Ethics is quite an important subject in modern society and would be a good idea for your finance dissertation topic. Some illustrative topics for your dissertation could be:

• Role of Managers’ discretion in financial reporting.
• Ethics or profits – Dilemma for accountants.
• An Exploration of the State of Ethics in UK Accounting Education.
• The Perception of the Ethics of Tax Evasion in the United Kingdom.
• Whistleblowing vs profits in the company. What is the right approach?
• Reducing tax liabilities by using accounting practices. How ethical is that?
• Tax evasion and transfer pricing. Effective ways to teach ethics to university accounting students.
• Ethical guidance: is adequate support available?
• Audit risk: rhetoric of rationality?
• Banking on Ethics: An Insight into ethics and the banking profession.
• The effect of auditor’s liability on the accounting profession and organisations in UK.
• Does accounting for the brand matter?
• Engaging contradiction: An expansion of Corporate Social Responsibility discourse.
• Accounting, ethics, and the links missing between them: a case study in the UK.
• Sustainability reporting and the public sector in the UK.
• Is independence of an auditor just a perception or a reality?
• The teaching of ethics to accounting students: An unnecessary and difficult goal?
• Accounting ethics, education, and professional legitimacy in the banking industry.
• To what extent are accounting rules and regulations sufficient to ensure ethical behaviour by accountants?
• Can accounting control systems ever prevent all cases of fraud and unethical behaviour in businesses?
• How can auditors maintain their independence whilst also working with managers to ensure effective auditing processes and controls?

Microfinance attracts significant attention from individuals, small to large international development organizations and non-governmental organisations. Efforts have been made to increase growth in microfinance throughout the banking and corporate sector. These topics investigate the ways in which microfinance institutions have revolutionised the financial sector in the United Kingdom.

• Assessing the rapid development of international micro-finance.
• The growth of microfinance in the UK banking industry.
• Assessing the demand for collective investment schemes in the UK; A strategic analysis, discussion, and recommendations.
• What are the constraints to the development of a fully-fledged microfinance market in the UK?
• A study on the impact of microfinance in developing economies.
• How important is access to credit and other financial services to growth and investment?
• The impact of micro-finance on poverty alleviation and economic growth.
• How has the partnership between the public and private sectors impacted micro-finance?
• Access to financial services for the poor, including through microfinance and microcredit: An empirical study in the Eurozone.
• Assessing the impact of micro-finance on SMEs.
• Determinant factors that lead to the success of microfinance institutions.
• Is Microfinance empowering the women across the globe?

Although their relative importance is on the decline, retail and commercial banks are still the most important financial intermediaries in the banking industry. Both the retail and commercial banks have played a crucial role in reaching rural and semi-urban populations and provided much needed financial services to the mass population. These topics seek to understand how the banking sector has changed over time to accommodate the dynamic financial demands and further highlight the impacts of banking on various economic segments.

• Forces for change in the European Retail Banking Sector: Analysis and implications for local commercial banks.
• Recent developments in the asset-liability management framework in the banking industry: A comparative study.
• An investigation into how Information Technology has transformed banking services in the UK.
• What is the relationship between equity, price, and performance in the UK banking industry?
• Financial services to the rural population: a study on the challenges of retail banking in the UK.
• The evolution of retail banking: Changes and preferences occasioned by consumer demands.
• How have banks impacted the growth of SMEs in the UK?
• Assessing the impact of financial regulation on modern banking systems.
• How have commercial banks adapted to the changing demands of corporate entities?
• A study on inventory management for mobile banking: The case of developing countries.

With stronger fundamentals and better scope for investments, the financial prospects in emerging markets such as Russia, China, India, and Brazil have increased significantly in recent times. All major organisations across the world are trying to develop their footprints in these markets to get a share of the emerging pie and expand their scope of business. These topics evaluate the emerging market environment with respect to the financial investment opportunities it brings forth.

• A study of UK investors’ attitudes and perceptions towards investing in emerging markets.
• The evolution and implementation of investment banking in emerging markets.
• What factors contribute to financial stability in the banking system in emerging countries?
• FDI strategies in Europe and Asia: A comparative study.
• What is the relationship between population and economic growth: The case of China.
• Assessing the impact of trade blocks on financial institutions: The case of BRIC countries.
• What is the impact of foreign direct investment on emerging economies?
• The challenges of financial institutions in emerging economies.

Volatility in the financial markets is prompting more and more investors to buy up alternative investments such as mutual funds, hedge funds, private equity and SEIS/EIS funds. Recent studies have confirmed the fact that increasing numbers of investors are opting to buy into the sector due to its huge return and comparatively less volatile nature of market. However, it is equally important to understand that alternative investment options typically do not correlate to the stock market, and thus are more complex than traditional investment vehicles.

• Hedge Funds: The investing alternative for institutional investors and the advent on the retail market.
• Private equity market and the various investors in the UK.
• The growth of hedge funds: The reasons for a sustained progress and its effects on the UK investments market.
• An evaluation of the role and performance of UK capital markets as an alternative source to banking finance.
• The growing popularity of index and mutual funds.
• The power of regulatory intervention and enforcement in alternative investment.
• Hedge funds: Return enhancers, risk diversifiers or both?
• Private equity investment: Future scope in the European Union.
• Investment diversification in alternative investment vehicles: Experimental evidence.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Banking Industry Dissertation Topics

The banking industry throws up an interesting conundrum. Unlike the manufacturing industries, it does not cause detrimental effects such as pollution, however, the financial sector impacts almost everyone in the modern world in terms of financial stability. Given that banks are responsible for managing money of depositors, this has wide socio-economic implications for the society through the way they conduct their financial products and services. Therefore, corporate social responsibility becomes an integral part of corporate management strategy in banking industry. Although the key objective of a banking sector is to earn maximum profits for shareholders or owners, it is expected that they conduct their operations in a manner to fulfil their social obligations towards society.

Topics of Corporate Social Responsibility of the banking industry that may be used for a finance dissertation are:

• The importance and significance of Corporate Social Responsibility for investment banks in the UK.
• Recent developments in CSR activities by the banking industry participants in the UK.
• A case study of socially responsible banking.
• Bank regimes and practices in CSR.
• CSR is now less a choice and more of a necessity for businesses to flourish.
• CSR has become a commercial imperative, a differentiator for the city and analysts to judge the progressive nature of an organisation.
• Guidance and reporting on a wide range of CSR issues in banking industry.
• CSR in banking industry during subprime mortgage crisis: What went wrong?

With the growing importance of maintaining a standard approach in accounting practices across EU nations and other countries of the world, the emerging accounting standards have raised a number of questions on existing practices across various organisations. It is interesting to see how these emerging standards get adopted by various organisations across the world. Several ideas for your finance dissertation topics could be:

• Does the current set of accounting standards live up to its objectives?
• International accounting standards: What is convergence and whether there is any likelihood of convergence between the EU and the US?
• An investigation into outsourcing accounting overseas from the US perspective.
• An investigation into outsourcing accounting overseas from the UK perspective.
• The balanced scorecard: “The Holy Grail” for legal firms?
• Reporting on sustainability: what is the standard?
• The increasing demand for disclosure of social and environmental information: Implications for big organisations.
• To what extent does social reporting represent a genuine attempt to promote sustainability, versus a cynical marketing ploy?
• How have amendments to the Companies Act and Corporate Governance Code affected the role and responsibilities of UK accountants over the past decade?
• An analysis of the potential impacts of Brexit on the accounting standards and regime in the UK.
• In the wake of the financial crisis, should fair value remain the primary basis of measurement in global accounting standards?

The awareness of accounting practices is an important issue being dealt with in organisations around the world. The perception around the accounting practices and various biases needs to be investigated and controlled to make the practices more dynamic and responsible for society in general. Accounting topics for your finance dissertation are suggested below:

To what extent does contemporary accounting education provide new accountants with the skills and attitudes they require?

• Accounting education: A comparison of EU and UK organisations.
• Accounting education: A comparison of Asian and European organisations.
• Accounting education: Does ethics get enough attention?
• Investigating the effects of gender on women’s experiences with the accounting profession in the UK.
• Accounting as art: Representation, truth, and annual reports.
• Perceptions of risk in the audit industry in the UK.
• Does securing assets or causing insecurities among employees impact internal control?
• Do internal controls have an impact on employees? A case study within the banking industry.
• How can diversity management be used to improve the performance of accounting firms?
• To what extent does gender bias hinder the recruitment, development, and motivation of female accountants?
• How can problem-based learning be used to improve the quality of contemporary accounting education?

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50+ Best Finance Dissertation Topics For Research Students

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Finance Dissertation Made Easier!

Embarking on your dissertation adventure? Look no further! Choosing the right finance dissertation topics is like laying the foundation for your research journey in finance, and we're here to light up your path. In this article, we will be diving deep into why dissertation topics in finance matter so much. We've got some golden writing tips to share with you! We're also unveiling the secret recipe for structuring a stellar finance dissertation and exploring intriguing topics across various finance sub-fields. Our buffet of finance dissertation topics will surely set your research spirit on fire!

What is a Finance Dissertation?

Finance dissertations are academic papers that delve into specific finance topics chosen by students, covering areas such as stock markets, banking, risk management, and healthcare finance. These dissertations require extensive research to create a compelling report and contribute to the student's confidence and satisfaction in the field of finance. Now, let's understand why these dissertations are so important and why choosing the right finance dissertation topics is crucial!

Why are Finance Dissertation Topics Important?

Choosing the dissertation topics for finance students is essential as it will influence the course of your research. It determines the direction and scope of your study. You must make sure that the finance dissertation topics you choose are relevant to your field of interest. Here are a few reasons why finance thesis topics are important:

1. Relevance

Opting for relevant finance thesis topics ensures that your research contributes to the existing body of knowledge and addresses contemporary issues in finance. Choosing a dissertation topic relevant to the industry can make a meaningful impact and advance understanding in your chosen area.

2. Personal Interest

Selecting finance dissertation topics that align with your interests and career goals is vital. When genuinely passionate about your research area, you are more likely to stay motivated during the dissertation process. Your interest will drive you to explore the subject thoroughly and produce high-quality work.

3. Future Opportunities

Well-chosen finance dissertation topics can open doors to various future opportunities. They can enhance your employability by showcasing your expertise in a specific finance area. They may also lead to potential research collaborations and invitations to conferences in your field of interest.

4. Academic Supervision

Your choice of topics for dissertation in finance also influences the availability of academic supervisors with expertise in your chosen area. Selecting a well-defined research area increases the likelihood of finding a supervisor to guide you effectively throughout the dissertation. Their knowledge and guidance will greatly contribute to the success of your research.

Writing Tips for Finance Dissertation

Writing a dissertation requires a lot of planning, formatting, and structuring. It starts with deciding on topics for a dissertation in finance, conducting tons of research, deciding on methods, and so on. Below are some tips to assist you along the way, and here is a blog on the 10 tips on writing a dissertation that can give you more information, should you need it!

1. Select a Manageable Topic

It is important to choose finance research topics within the given timeframe and resources. Select a research area that interests you and aligns with your career goals. This will help you stay inspired throughout the dissertation process.

2. Conduct a Thorough Literature Review

A comprehensive literature review forms the backbone of your research. After choosing the finance dissertation topics, dive deep into academic papers, books, and industry reports. Gain a solid understanding of your chosen area to identify research gaps and establish the significance of your study.

3. Define Clear Research Objectives

Clearly define your dissertation's research questions and objectives. It will provide a clear direction for your research and guide your data collection, analysis, and overall structure. Ensure your objectives are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

4. Collect and Analyse Data

Depending on your research methodology and your finance dissertation topics, collect and analyse relevant data to support your findings. It may involve conducting surveys, interviews, experiments, and analysing existing datasets. Choose appropriate statistical techniques and qualitative methods to derive meaningful insights from your data.

5. Structure and Organization

Pay attention to the structure and organisation of your dissertation. Follow a logical progression of chapters and sections, ensuring that each chapter contributes to the overall coherence of your study. Use headings, subheadings, and clear signposts to guide the reader through your work.

6. Proofread and Edit

Once you have completed the writing process, take the time to proofread and edit your dissertation carefully. Check for clarity, coherence, and proper grammar. Ensure that your arguments are well-supported, and eliminate any inconsistencies or repetitions. Pay attention to formatting, citation styles, and consistency in referencing throughout your dissertation.

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Finance Dissertation Topics

Now that you know what a finance dissertation is and why they are important, it's time to have a look at some of the best finance dissertation topics. For your convenience, we have segregated these topics into categories, including cryptocurrency, risk management, internet banking, and so many more. So, let's dive right in and explore the best finance dissertation topics:

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Cryptocurrency

1. The Impact of Regulatory Frameworks on the Volatility and Liquidity of Cryptocurrencies.

2. Exploring the Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Adoption: A Comparative Study.

3. Assessing the Efficiency and Market Integration of Cryptocurrency Exchanges.

4. An Analysis of the Relationship between Cryptocurrency Prices and Macroeconomic Factors.

5. The Role of Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) in Financing Startups: Opportunities and Challenges.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Risk Management

1. The Effectiveness of Different Risk Management Strategies in Mitigating Financial Risks in Banking Institutions.

2. The Role of Derivatives in Hedging Financial Risks: A Comparative Study.

3. Analysing the Impact of Risk Management Practices on Firm Performance: A Case Study of a Specific Industry.

4. The Use of Stress Testing in Evaluating Systemic Risk: Lessons from the Global Financial Crisis.

5. Assessing the Relationship between Corporate Governance and Risk Management in Financial Institutions.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Internet Banking

1. Customer Adoption of Internet Banking: An Empirical Study on Factors Influencing Usage.

Enhancing Security in Internet Banking: Exploring Biometric Authentication Technologies.

2. The Impact of Mobile Banking Applications on Customer Engagement and Satisfaction.

3. Evaluating the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Internet Banking Services in Emerging Markets.

4. The Role of Social Media in Shaping Customer Perception and Adoption of Internet Banking.

5. Fraud and Identity Theft are Accomplished via Internet Banking.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Microfinance

1. The Impact of Microfinance on Poverty Alleviation: A Comparative Study of Different Models.

2. Exploring the Role of Microfinance in Empowering Women Entrepreneurs.

3. Assessing the Financial Sustainability of Microfinance Institutions in Developing Countries.

4. The Effectiveness of Microfinance in Promoting Rural Development: Evidence from a Specific Region.

5. Analysing the Relationship between Microfinance and Entrepreneurial Success: A Longitudinal Study.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Retail and Commercial Banking

1. The Impact of Digital Transformation on Retail and Commercial Banking: A Case Study of a Specific Bank.

2. Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty in Retail Banking: An Analysis of Service Quality Dimensions.

3. Analysing the Relationship between Bank Branch Expansion and Financial Performance.

4. The Role of Fintech Startups in Disrupting Retail and Commercial Banking: Opportunities and Challenges.

5. Assessing the Impact of Mergers and Acquisitions on the Performance of Retail and Commercial Banks.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Alternative Investment

1. The Performance and Risk Characteristics of Hedge Funds: A Comparative Analysis.

2. Exploring the Role of Private Equity in Financing and Growing Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.

3. Analysing the Relationship between Real Estate Investments and Portfolio Diversification.

4. The Potential of Impact Investing: Evaluating the Social and Financial Returns.

5. Assessing the Risk-Return Tradeoff in Cryptocurrency Investments: A Comparative Study.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to International Affairs

1. The Impact of Exchange Rate Volatility on International Trade: A Case Study of a Specific Industry.

2. Analysing the Effectiveness of Capital Controls in Managing Financial Crises: Comparative Study of Different Countries.

3. The Role of International Financial Institutions in Promoting Economic Development in Developing Countries.

4. Evaluating the Implications of Trade Wars on Global Financial Markets.

5. Assessing the Role of Central Banks in Managing Financial Stability in a Globalised Economy.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Sustainable Finance

1. The Impact of Sustainable Investing on Financial Performance.

2. The Role of Green Bonds in Financing Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation.

3. The Development of Carbon Markets.

4. The Use of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Factors in Investment Decision-Making.

5. The Challenges and Opportunities of Sustainable Finance in Emerging Markets.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Investment Banking

1. The Valuation of Distressed Assets.

2. The Pricing of Derivatives.

3. The Risk Management of Financial Institutions.

4. The Regulation of Investment Banks.

5. The Impact of Technology on the Investment Banking Industry.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Actuarial Science

1. The Development of New Actuarial Models for Pricing Insurance Products.

2. The Use of Big Data in Actuarial Analysis.

3. The Impact of Climate Change on Insurance Risk.

4. The Design of Pension Plans That Are Sustainable in the Long Term.

5. The Use of Actuarial Science to Manage Risk in Other Industries, Such as Healthcare and Finance.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Corporate Finance

1. Study the Relations Between Corporate Governance Structures and Financial Performance

2. Testing the Effects of Capital Structure on Firm Performance Across Different Industries

3. Effectiveness of Financial Management Practices in Emerging Markets

4. Integrating Sustainability and CSR Initiatives Impacts a Corporation’s Financial Performance and Enhances its Brand Reputation.

5. A Comparative Study of the Financing Strategies Employed in Mergers and Acquisitions.

Tips To Find Good Finance Dissertation Topics 

Embarking on a dissertation report on finance topics journey requires careful consideration of various factors. Your choice of topic in finance research topics is pivotal, as it sets the stage for the entire research process. We suggest the following tips that can help you pick the perfect dissertation topic:

1. Identify your interests and strengths 

2. Check for current relevance

3. Feedback from your superiors

4. Finalise the research methods

5. Gather the data

6. Work on the outline of your dissertation

7. Make a draft and proofread it

Lastly, we have discussed the importance of finance thesis topics and provided valuable writing tips and tips for finding the right topic. We have also presented a list of thesis topics for finance students within various subfields. With this, we hope you have great ideas for finance dissertations. Good luck with your finance research journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i choose a dissertation topic in finance, what is the best topic for a thesis in finance, where can i find a dissertation topic in finance, what is the recommended length for a finance dissertation, how do you write a dissertation in finance.

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How to write your research proposal, with examples of good 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 match you with a supervisor or team of supervisors.

In your proposal, please tell us if you have an interest in the work of a specific academic at York St John. You can get in touch with this academic to discuss your proposal. You can also speak to one of our Research Leads. There is a list of our Research Leads on the Apply page.

When you write your proposal you need to:

• Highlight how it is original or significant
• Explain how it will develop or challenge current knowledge of your subject
• Identify the importance of your research
• Show why you are the right person to do this research
• 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)

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How to Write a Research Proposal: (with Examples & Templates)

Table of Contents

Before conducting a study, a research proposal should be created that outlines researchers’ plans and methodology and is submitted to the concerned evaluating organization or person. Creating a research proposal is an important step to ensure that researchers are on track and are moving forward as intended. A research proposal can be defined as a detailed plan or blueprint for the proposed research that you intend to undertake. It provides readers with a snapshot of your project by describing what you will investigate, why it is needed, and how you will conduct the research.  

Your research proposal should aim to explain to the readers why your research is relevant and original, that you understand the context and current scenario in the field, have the appropriate resources to conduct the research, and that the research is feasible given the usual constraints.  

This article will describe in detail the purpose and typical structure of a research proposal , along with examples and templates to help you ace this step in your research journey.  

What is a Research Proposal ?  

A research proposal¹ ,²  can be defined as a formal report that describes your proposed research, its objectives, methodology, implications, and other important details. Research proposals are the framework of your research and are used to obtain approvals or grants to conduct the study from various committees or organizations. Consequently, research proposals should convince readers of your study’s credibility, accuracy, achievability, practicality, and reproducibility.   

With research proposals , researchers usually aim to persuade the readers, funding agencies, educational institutions, and supervisors to approve the proposal. To achieve this, the report should be well structured with the objectives written in clear, understandable language devoid of jargon. A well-organized research proposal conveys to the readers or evaluators that the writer has thought out the research plan meticulously and has the resources to ensure timely completion.  

Purpose of Research Proposals  

A research proposal is a sales pitch and therefore should be detailed enough to convince your readers, who could be supervisors, ethics committees, universities, etc., that what you’re proposing has merit and is feasible . Research proposals can help students discuss their dissertation with their faculty or fulfill course requirements and also help researchers obtain funding. A well-structured proposal instills confidence among readers about your ability to conduct and complete the study as proposed.  

Research proposals can be written for several reasons:³  

• To describe the importance of research in the specific topic  
• Address any potential challenges you may encounter  
• Showcase knowledge in the field and your ability to conduct a study  
• Apply for a role at a research institute  
• Convince a research supervisor or university that your research can satisfy the requirements of a degree program  
• Highlight the importance of your research to organizations that may sponsor your project  
• Identify implications of your project and how it can benefit the audience  

What Goes in a Research Proposal?    

Research proposals should aim to answer the three basic questions—what, why, and how.  

The What question should be answered by describing the specific subject being researched. It should typically include the objectives, the cohort details, and the location or setting.  

The Why question should be answered by describing the existing scenario of the subject, listing unanswered questions, identifying gaps in the existing research, and describing how your study can address these gaps, along with the implications and significance.  

The How question should be answered by describing the proposed research methodology, data analysis tools expected to be used, and other details to describe your proposed methodology.   

Research Proposal Example  

Here is a research proposal sample template (with examples) from the University of Rochester Medical Center. 4 The sections in all research proposals are essentially the same although different terminology and other specific sections may be used depending on the subject.  

Structure of a Research Proposal  

If you want to know how to make a research proposal impactful, include the following components:¹  

1. Introduction  

This section provides a background of the study, including the research topic, what is already known about it and the gaps, and the significance of the proposed research.  

2. Literature review  

This section contains descriptions of all the previous relevant studies pertaining to the research topic. Every study cited should be described in a few sentences, starting with the general studies to the more specific ones. This section builds on the understanding gained by readers in the Introduction section and supports it by citing relevant prior literature, indicating to readers that you have thoroughly researched your subject.  

3. Objectives  

Once the background and gaps in the research topic have been established, authors must now state the aims of the research clearly. Hypotheses should be mentioned here. This section further helps readers understand what your study’s specific goals are.  

4. Research design and methodology  

Here, authors should clearly describe the methods they intend to use to achieve their proposed objectives. Important components of this section include the population and sample size, data collection and analysis methods and duration, statistical analysis software, measures to avoid bias (randomization, blinding), etc.  

5. Ethical considerations  

This refers to the protection of participants’ rights, such as the right to privacy, right to confidentiality, etc. Researchers need to obtain informed consent and institutional review approval by the required authorities and mention this clearly for transparency.  

6. Budget/funding  

Researchers should prepare their budget and include all expected expenditures. An additional allowance for contingencies such as delays should also be factored in.  

7. Appendices  

This section typically includes information that supports the research proposal and may include informed consent forms, questionnaires, participant information, measurement tools, etc.  

8. Citations  

Important Tips for Writing a Research Proposal  

Writing a research proposal begins much before the actual task of writing. Planning the research proposal structure and content is an important stage, which if done efficiently, can help you seamlessly transition into the writing stage. 3,5  

The Planning Stage  

• Manage your time efficiently. Plan to have the draft version ready at least two weeks before your deadline and the final version at least two to three days before the deadline.
• What is the primary objective of your research?  
• Will your research address any existing gap?  
• What is the impact of your proposed research?  
• Do people outside your field find your research applicable in other areas?  
• If your research is unsuccessful, would there still be other useful research outcomes?  

  The Writing Stage  

• Create an outline with main section headings that are typically used.  
• Focus only on writing and getting your points across without worrying about the format of the research proposal , grammar, punctuation, etc. These can be fixed during the subsequent passes. Add details to each section heading you created in the beginning.   
• Ensure your sentences are concise and use plain language. A research proposal usually contains about 2,000 to 4,000 words or four to seven pages.  
• Don’t use too many technical terms and abbreviations assuming that the readers would know them. Define the abbreviations and technical terms.  
• Ensure that the entire content is readable. Avoid using long paragraphs because they affect the continuity in reading. Break them into shorter paragraphs and introduce some white space for readability.  
• Focus on only the major research issues and cite sources accordingly. Don’t include generic information or their sources in the literature review.  
• Proofread your final document to ensure there are no grammatical errors so readers can enjoy a seamless, uninterrupted read.  
• Use academic, scholarly language because it brings formality into a document.  
• Ensure that your title is created using the keywords in the document and is neither too long and specific nor too short and general.  
• Cite all sources appropriately to avoid plagiarism.  
• Make sure that you follow guidelines, if provided. This includes rules as simple as using a specific font or a hyphen or en dash between numerical ranges.  
• Ensure that you’ve answered all questions requested by the evaluating authority.  

Key Takeaways   

Here’s a summary of the main points about research proposals discussed in the previous sections:  

• A research proposal is a document that outlines the details of a proposed study and is created by researchers to submit to evaluators who could be research institutions, universities, faculty, etc.  
• Research proposals are usually about 2,000-4,000 words long, but this depends on the evaluating authority’s guidelines.  
• A good research proposal ensures that you’ve done your background research and assessed the feasibility of the research.  
• Research proposals have the following main sections—introduction, literature review, objectives, methodology, ethical considerations, and budget.  

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q1. How is a research proposal evaluated?  

A1. In general, most evaluators, including universities, broadly use the following criteria to evaluate research proposals . 6  

• Significance —Does the research address any important subject or issue, which may or may not be specific to the evaluator or university?  
• Content and design —Is the proposed methodology appropriate to answer the research question? Are the objectives clear and well aligned with the proposed methodology?  
• Sample size and selection —Is the target population or cohort size clearly mentioned? Is the sampling process used to select participants randomized, appropriate, and free of bias?  
• Timing —Are the proposed data collection dates mentioned clearly? Is the project feasible given the specified resources and timeline?  
• Data management and dissemination —Who will have access to the data? What is the plan for data analysis?  

Q2. What is the difference between the Introduction and Literature Review sections in a research proposal ?  

A2. The Introduction or Background section in a research proposal sets the context of the study by describing the current scenario of the subject and identifying the gaps and need for the research. A Literature Review, on the other hand, provides references to all prior relevant literature to help corroborate the gaps identified and the research need.  

Q3. How long should a research proposal be?  

A3. Research proposal lengths vary with the evaluating authority like universities or committees and also the subject. Here’s a table that lists the typical research proposal lengths for a few universities.  

Q4. What are the common mistakes to avoid in a research proposal ?  

A4. Here are a few common mistakes that you must avoid while writing a research proposal . 7  

• No clear objectives: Objectives should be clear, specific, and measurable for the easy understanding among readers.  
• Incomplete or unconvincing background research: Background research usually includes a review of the current scenario of the particular industry and also a review of the previous literature on the subject. This helps readers understand your reasons for undertaking this research because you identified gaps in the existing research.  
• Overlooking project feasibility: The project scope and estimates should be realistic considering the resources and time available.   
• Neglecting the impact and significance of the study: In a research proposal , readers and evaluators look for the implications or significance of your research and how it contributes to the existing research. This information should always be included.  
• Unstructured format of a research proposal : A well-structured document gives confidence to evaluators that you have read the guidelines carefully and are well organized in your approach, consequently affirming that you will be able to undertake the research as mentioned in your proposal.  
• Ineffective writing style: The language used should be formal and grammatically correct. If required, editors could be consulted, including AI-based tools such as Paperpal , to refine the research proposal structure and language.  

Thus, a research proposal is an essential document that can help you promote your research and secure funds and grants for conducting your research. Consequently, it should be well written in clear language and include all essential details to convince the evaluators of your ability to conduct the research as proposed.  

This article has described all the important components of a research proposal and has also provided tips to improve your writing style. We hope all these tips will help you write a well-structured research proposal to ensure receipt of grants or any other purpose.  

References  

• Sudheesh K, Duggappa DR, Nethra SS. How to write a research proposal? Indian J Anaesth. 2016;60(9):631-634. Accessed July 15, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5037942/  
• Writing research proposals. Harvard College Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships. Harvard University. Accessed July 14, 2024. https://uraf.harvard.edu/apply-opportunities/app-components/essays/research-proposals  
• What is a research proposal? Plus how to write one. Indeed website. Accessed July 17, 2024. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/research-proposal  
• Research proposal template. University of Rochester Medical Center. Accessed July 16, 2024. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/MediaLibraries/URMCMedia/pediatrics/research/documents/Research-proposal-Template.pdf  
• Tips for successful proposal writing. Johns Hopkins University. Accessed July 17, 2024. https://research.jhu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Tips-for-Successful-Proposal-Writing.pdf  
• Formal review of research proposals. Cornell University. Accessed July 18, 2024. https://irp.dpb.cornell.edu/surveys/survey-assessment-review-group/research-proposals  
• 7 Mistakes you must avoid in your research proposal. Aveksana (via LinkedIn). Accessed July 17, 2024. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/7-mistakes-you-must-avoid-your-research-proposal-aveksana-cmtwf/  

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Digital Commons @ USF > Muma College of Business > Finance > Theses and Dissertations

Finance Theses and Dissertations

Theses/dissertations from 2023 2023.

Do Industries' Political Profiles Affect Their Portfolio Return Performance? , Shaddy S. Douidar

Do Firms Overreact to the Enactment of Corporate Laws: Evidence from Anti-Price Gouging Laws , Mario Marshall

Theses/Dissertations from 2021 2021

Essays on CEO Personal Characteristics and Corporate Outcomes: Athlete CEOs and Foreign CEOs , Kirill Pervun

Theses/Dissertations from 2020 2020

Predictors of Economic Outlook in Stability Operations , Juan Carlos Garcia

The Warren Buffett Project: A Qualitative Study on Warren Buffett , Christian G. Koch

Theses/Dissertations from 2019 2019

Closing America’s Retirement Savings Gap: Nudging Small Business Owners to Adopt Workplace Retirement Plans , Peter W. Kirtland

Theses/Dissertations from 2018 2018

Growth Options and Corporate Goodness , Linh Thompson

Theses/Dissertations from 2017 2017

Essays on the Tax Policy and Insider Trading , Han Shi

Theses/Dissertations from 2016 2016

Two Essays on Lottery-type Stocks , Yun Meng

Theses/Dissertations from 2015 2015

Two Essays on IPOs and Asset Prices , Gaole Chen

Essays on the impact of CEO gender on corporate policies and outcomes , Nilesh Sah

Theses/Dissertations from 2014 2014

Essays on Corporate Finance , Hari Prasad Adhikari

Two Essays on Individuals, Information, and Asset Prices , Joseph Mohr

Two Essays on Investment , Bin Wang

Two Essays on Corporate Finance , Qiancheng Zheng

Theses/Dissertations from 2013 2013

Two Essays on Mergers and Acquisitions , Dongnyoung Kim

Two Essays on Politics and Finance , Incheol Kim

Two Essays on Stock Repurchases-The Post Repurchase Announcement Drift: An Anomaly in Disguise? and Intra Industry Effects of IPOs on Stock Repurchase Decisions , Thanh Thiet Nguyen

Two Essays on Investor Distraction , Erdem Ucar

Two Essays on Politics in Corporate Finance , Xiaojing Yuan

Theses/Dissertations from 2012 2012

On The Efficiency of US Equity Markets , Mikael Carl Erik Bergbrant

Two Essays on the Sell-side Financial Analysts , Xi Liu

Two essays on Corporate Restructuring , Dung Anh Pham

Two Essays on Corporate Governance , Yuwei Wang

Theses/Dissertations from 2011 2011

Capital Structure, Credit Ratings, and Sarbanes-Oxley , Kelly E. Carter

Institutional Investors and Corporate Financial Policies , Ricky William Scott

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The 2024 Engaged Scholarship Symposium , hosted by the Office of Outreach and Engagement, will feature a graduate student poster competition to provide graduate and professional students an opportunity to share their engaged scholarship. The call for proposals closes on Sept. 12. 

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TO STUDY THE EFFECTS OF FINANCIAL LEVERAGE ON THE BANKING PERFORMANCE OF UK

[Name of Writer]

[Date of Submission]

[Name of Institution]

Table of Contents

Background of the study.

The following research is aimed towards the effects of financial leverage on the banking performance of UK. In the contemporary business world, the corporate structure is known as one of the issues that are considered to be very puzzling in the literature of corporate finance (Ku and Yen, 2016). The concept of the capital structure is known as such a concept in which the debt and equity are regarded as the strategic choice for the managers of the organization, specifically in the banking sector. The decision of capital structure is considered to be an important decision for the managerial role as it influences the return and risk of the shareholders. The capital structure decision mainly affects the market value of the share and the banks would have to plan that capital structure at the initial phase at the time of inception (Afolabi et al., 2019).

Principally, whenever there are funds which need to be raised for the financial investment purposes, there is an involvement of the capital structure decision. In the banking sector, it is analysed that there is a need of the debt and equity for financing the investments and in this process, the preference shares are also used (Bhayani and Ajmera, 2018).  Financial leverage is known as the ratio of the fixed charge sources for funding like preference shares for the equity of the owners and the debt in the capital structure. The decisions that are related to the financial leverage is considered as very important as the performance of the organization is mainly affected by the such decisions, hence, the financial managers in the banking sector should perform their duties with the cautions and the focus over the decisions regarding the debt-equity mix (Ku and Yen, 2016). Thus, the study had been directed for exploring the influence of the financial leverage on the performance of the banking industry in the UK.

Aims and Objectives of the study

The main aim of conducting this research is to evaluate and measure the effects of financial leverage on the performance of the banking industry in the UK. The objectives that are focused in the study plays a major role in order to achieve the aim of the study in a respective manner. The objectives designed for the study had been presented below: 

• To study the concept and significance of financial leverage
• To identify factors affecting the performance of an organisation
• To evaluate the impact of financial leverage on the banking performance of the UK
• To provide recommendations on the improvisation of banking performance through financial leverage in the UK.

Methodology

The design which is followed in order to conduct the study mainly reflects the nature of the study which is mostly categorized in two types that are qualitative and quantitative research design (Kumar, 2019). For the research, the quantitative research design is followed in which data would be tested by using mathematical and statistical tests. By relying on the existing studies, it is investigated that most of the studies have been conducted over the same topic by using a quantitative research design that is why this method is used for the study. For the study, the primary data is collected through questionnaire, interviews and observations which mostly comprise of new information. Whereas on the other hand, secondary data consists of the data that is already available on the internet in which web link, books and columns etc. are included. The main purpose of the study was analysing the banks of UK; therefore, five top banks of the UK are involved in the study that are HSBC, Barclays, Halifax, Natwest and Lloyds. In order to measure the financial leverage of banks two metrics, debt to asset and debt to equity are used whereas in order to measure the performance of banking the metrics like ROA, ROE and Net profit margins are used. The data will be taken for the years mentioned as 2005-2018. Correlation and regression tools are used in order to analyses the gathered data. The variable description is presented as,

Afolabi, A., Olabisi, J., Kajola, S.O. and Asaolu, T.O., 2019. Does leverage affect the financial performance of Nigerian firms?.  Journal of Economics & Management ,  37 , pp.5-22.

Bhayani, S.J. and Ajmera, B., 2018. AN EMPIRICAL STUDY ON EFFECT OF FINANCIAL LEVERAGE ON FIRM’S PERFORMANCE AND VALUATION OF SELECTED PHARMACEUTICAL COMPANIES IN INDIA.  Indian Journal of Accounting (IJA) Vol ,  50 , p.2.

Ku, Y.Y. and Yen, T.Y., 2016. Heterogeneous effect of financial leverage on corporate performance: A quantile regression analysis of Taiwanese companies.  Review of Pacific Basin Financial Markets and Policies ,  19 (03), p.1650015.

Kumar, R., 2019. Research methodology: A step-by-step guide for beginners. Sage Publications Limited.

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Professor Sapna Sarupria receives 2024 CoMSEF Impact Award

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (8/16/2024) – Department of Chemistry Professor Sapna Sarupria was recently awarded the 2024  CoMSEF Impact Award from the Computational Molecular Science and Engineering Forum (CoMSEF ) of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE). The award recognizes one person within 15 years of their highest degree for their outstanding research in computational molecular science and engineering each year. This highly competitive award represents the top computational chemists in the field. 

Sarupria is recognized for her numerous contributions to the advancement of computational methods for studying rare events. She is also recognized for her service to the broader research community and her dedicated advocacy for diversity and inclusivity in STEM and higher education.  She will deliver a presentation titled “Seeing the Invisible: In Nucleation (and in society)” during the CoMSEF Plenary Session at the 2024 AIChE Annual Meeting. CoMSEF Impact Award winners receive a plaque commemorating their accomplishment and an honorarium.

The Sarupria lab is called the SAMPEL lab (SAMPEL = Simulations and Advanced Methods for Probing Energy Landscapes). SAMPEL uses molecular simulations and statistical mechanics to study condensed phase phenomena. They also develop and apply rare event path sampling techniques. These techniques enable accessing processes that involve high free energy barriers and are typically inaccessible in straightforward molecular simulations. Current projects in the SAMPEL lab include ice nucleation, enzyme engineering, polyamide desalination membranes, enzymatic breakdown of polymers, and stabilization of vaccines. These projects are motivated by applications in energy, biology and sustainable technologies. In addition to leading the research efforts of SAMPEL lab, Sarupria is engaged in several education and equity efforts. She co-founded the NSF funded  Institute for Computational Molecular Science Education (i-CoMSE) and has led the organization of two workshops focused on Machine Learning in Molecular Science which were held at UMN – Twin Cities. She also co-organizes a virtual seminar series “ Statistical Thermodynamics and Molecular Simulations (STMS) ” that has been successfully running since 2020 and attracts over 80+ participants at every event! So far STMS has hosted 82 seminars with 164 speakers. Additionally, Sarupria is the Chair of the ACS PHYS Theory sub-division, elected trustee of the not-for-profit Computer Aids for Chemical Engineering ( CACHE ), and member-at-large of the Executive Board of the Program Committee (EBPC) of AIChE. She is also the co-Director of the recently established NSF-funded National Research Traineeship program (NRT) Data-Driven Discovery and Engineering from Atoms to Processes (3DEAP) housed in the Department of Chemistry and the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science at UMN.

SAMPEL Group website

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