Meets Standard: Strategic Research Project Topic Approval Guide for Doctoral

This post covers Meets Standard, as detailed below.

Before you begin writing your Strategic Research Project (SRP), you must obtain formal approval for your topic, identified problem or opportunity, and alignment with an interdisciplinary theme and your Ed.D. concentration. Approval confirms that your idea is viable, research-based, and appropriate for doctoral-level work.

Important Clarification
The introduction to the SRP is a topic and problem approval form (see Appendix A). It is not a full APA-formatted manuscript. You are required to complete only the official Topic and Problem Approval Form provided in Canvas. Do not submit a separate paper.
APA manuscript formatting (double spacing, headings, formal layout) is not required for this assignment. However, in-text citations and the reference list must follow APA 7th edition format. Spelling, grammar, syntax, and clarity of writing will be evaluated and must reflect doctoral-level standards.

Instructions
1. Download and complete the official Topic and Problem Approval Form.Download Topic and Problem Approval Form.

2. Complete all sections of the form, including:
•    Proposed Title: Provide a concise, descriptive working title (12 words or fewer). This title may evolve as your SRP develops.
•    Problem or Opportunity Statement: In one clear paragraph (5-6 sentences), describe the specific problem, challenge, or opportunity you intend to address in your professional setting.
•    Rationale for Topic Selection: In 1–2 well-developed paragraphs (5–6 sentences per paragraph), explain why this issue is important in your professional context. Support your explanation with at least one scholarly source.
•    Alignment to Concentration and Theme: Identify one interdisciplinary theme and your Ed.D. concentration. In one focused paragraph, explain how your topic aligns with both.
•    Preliminary References: Include a minimum of two current scholarly sources (published within the last five to seven years unless seminal). References must be formatted in APA 7th edition style.
3. Submit the completed form to Canvas for instructor feedback and approval.

Examples of Capstone Project Themes by ConcentrationDownload Examples of Capstone Project Themes by Concentration

NOTE: You must receive written approval from your course professor before beginning and submitting Part 1A of the SRP.

Pre-Assignment—Topic and Problem Approval Evaluation Standard Rubric

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