Introduction

After securing a supervisor with the AC1 form, the next step in your research journey involves detailing your research proposal and outlining your project’s budget requirements. The AC2 form is designed for this purpose, allowing you to formally submit your research proposal and request any necessary funding for your project

Eligibility and Timing

• Completion of AC1: Submission of the AC2 form is contingent upon the approval of your AC1 form and the assignment of a supervisor.

• Preparation: It is essential to work closely with your supervisor to develop a comprehensive research proposal and a realistic budget plan that aligns with your research objectives.

Process Overview

1. Developing Your Proposal: Include a comprehensive overview of your research question, methodology, literature review, anticipated outcomes, and project timeline.

2. Budget Planning: If you require funding from CGS, include an outline detailing a budget that covers all necessary expenses related to your research, including materials, equipment, and any fieldwork costs. Justify each expense to clarify its relevance to your research.

3. Completing and Submitting the AC2 Form: Through the Graduate Services Portal, complete and attach your proposal and budget to the AC2 form. Ensure your submission is thorough and clearly articulated.

4. Review Process: Submit your AC2 form through the portal. It will be reviewed by your supervisor for initial approval, followed by the Program Director in coordination with the Program Committee for approval. CGS will process your request and notify you of the budget allocation status.

Specific Requirements and Timing

• Master’s Thesis Students: The AC2 must be completed before the end of the Thesis-1 (597) course. Approval allows registration for Thesis-2 (598).

• Master’s Project Students: AC2 submission coincides with enrollment in Project 593. Failure to submit by the semester’s end results in an incomplete grade (“I”). To avoid an “F”, submit the AC2 to change the course status to “CC” by the grade change deadline in the next semester if re-registering for Project 593.

• PhD Students: Submission of the AC2 is required before enrolling in Dissertation-2 (698).

Next Step

Upon approval, you will be notified and can proceed to the next phase of your research. This approval is a green light to advance your work with the confidence that your project plan and funding are in place:

• Master’s Thesis Students: Move on to Thesis-2 (598).

• Master’s Project Students: Once your AC2 is approved, you can submit your work for the course if you are done through the AC4 form. If you are not done and need an additional semester, register again for Porject 593 to continue your work.

• PhD Students: Progress to Dissertation-2 (698).

This stage is a significant advancement in your research journey, indicating readiness to engage with scholarly work.