The educational curriculum emphasizes that to obtain a degree upon graduation, one must undertake a research project topic in their chosen field of study. This requirement typically occurs during the final year of study at all university institutions. Many students encounter challenges when it comes to selecting a research project topic. This is often due to a lack of knowledge about the fundamentals of choosing a suitable research project topic, which can lead to poor grades or even mid-project topic changes. The purpose of this write-up is to assist final-year students in understanding the essential steps involved in selecting a research project topic.

Steps in Choosing a Research Project Topic:

1. Begin by identifying your areas of primary interest within your field of study, such as engineering, production, computer science, management, education, etc.
2. Narrow down your focus by selecting a sub-area within your field. For example, if you have an interest in human resources, you may opt for a research project topic related to organizational behavior or workplace hostility.
3. Search for potential research project topics within your chosen sub-area.
4. Familiarize yourself with the subject matter and existing literature related to the proposed research topics.
5. Evaluate each tentative research project topic critically. Ideally, you should have at least three potential topics to choose from. Select the topic that most appeals to you after carefully considering the pros and cons.
6. Finally, present your chosen research project topic to your supervisor for further discussion, clarification, and elaboration, if necessary.

Criteria for Choosing a Research Project Topic:

It is essential not to undertake a research project topic about which you know very little or nothing. This could lead to challenges such as difficulty defending your choice before your supervisor or discovering later that the topic is more complex than anticipated or lacks the necessary resources. When selecting a research project topic, keep the following criteria in mind:

1. Interest in the Topic: Many students have abandoned their research project topics halfway through because they lacked a genuine interest in the subject matter. It is crucial to choose a research project topic that genuinely captivates your interest, as your passion will sustain you through the challenges you may encounter.
2. Researchability: Ensure that your chosen research project topic is researchable. This means you should be able to gather reliable data and employ available scientific tools and methods to answer your research questions effectively.
3. Feasibility: Assess the feasibility of your research project in terms of cost, financial requirements, and the projected timeframe for completion. It is essential to confirm that you have the necessary resources and ample time to complete the research project successfully. If not, it may be wise to reconsider your choice of topic before initiating the project.