course description for Project/Thesis Proposal Writing as a standalone course – typically offered in Year 4, Semester 7 or 8 of a BBA in Auditing:

Project/Thesis Proposal Writing

Course Code: BBA-AUD 498
Credit Hours: 3
Semester Offered: Year 4 – Semester 7/8

Course Description

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of research methodology and academic writing required for preparing a professional project or thesis proposal. Students will learn to identify research problems, review literature, formulate research questions, and design appropriate methodologies. The course emphasizes the planning, structuring, and presentation of a proposal that meets academic and professional standards in auditing, accounting, and business administration.

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Understand the research process and the components of a thesis/project proposal.

2. Formulate clear research objectives, questions, and hypotheses.

3. Conduct a comprehensive literature review relevant to auditing and business topics.

4. Design appropriate research methodologies and data collection techniques.

5. Present a coherent and structured proposal that meets academic standards.

6. Apply ethical principles in conducting and proposing research.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Develop a well-structured thesis/project proposal.

• Identify and justify research problems in auditing and business contexts.

• Select appropriate research designs, methods, and analytical tools.

• Prepare and present a literature review with critical analysis.

• Apply proper academic writing conventions, referencing, and citation standards.

• Demonstrate awareness of ethical considerations in research.

Key Topics

1. Introduction to Research Methodology

   • Definition, purpose, and types of research

   • Research ethics and integrity

2. Identifying Research Problems

   • Selection of research topics in auditing and business

   • Formulating research questions and objectives

3. Literature Review

   • Sources of literature and critical evaluation

   • Synthesizing findings from previous studies

4. Research Design & Methodology

   • Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches

   • Sampling techniques and data collection methods

   • Reliability and validity of research

5. Proposal Structure and Components

   • Title, abstract, introduction, problem statement

   • Objectives, research questions, hypotheses

   • Methodology, limitations, and expected outcomes

6. Academic Writing & Referencing

   • Writing clearly and concisely

   • Citation styles (APA, Harvard, or as per institutional guidelines)

   • Avoiding plagiarism

7. Presentation of Proposal

   • Preparing proposal defense slides

   • Communicating research rationale and methodology

   • Handling questions and feedback

Teaching Methods

• Lectures and interactive discussions

• Workshops on research design and proposal writing

• Individual guidance and mentorship on proposal development

• Peer review and group feedback sessions

Assessment Methods

• Written Proposal Submission (50%)

• Presentation / Proposal Defense (30%)

• Assignments & Literature Review Exercises (20%)

???? Recommended Textbooks & References

1. Creswell, J. W. – Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches

2. Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. – Research Methods for Business Students

3. Kothari, C. R. – Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques

4. Walliman, N. – Your Research Project: Designing and Planning