Sage Publications

Research Proposal

Ends soon! Get $70+ in savings and build skills with Coursera Plus. Save 40% for 3 months.

Sage Publications

Research Proposal

Sage Instructors

Instructor: Sage Instructors

Included with Coursera PlusLearn more

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level
Some related experience required
6 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level
Some related experience required
6 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Understand the purpose and value of a research proposal and how it supports your project, research question, and methods

  • Use the proposal-writing process to clarify ideas, define your research question, and outline a clear research plan

  • Apply proposal guidelines to structure sections effectively and develop your own research proposal

  • Anticipate potential obstacles in writing your proposal and develop practical strategies to overcome or avoid them

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Recently updated!

September 2026

Assessments

5 assignments

Taught in English

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

 logos of Petrobras, TATA, Danone, Capgemini, P&G and L'Oreal

There are 6 modules in this course

This module introduces the purpose and value of research proposals as a key tool for securing support and demonstrating the potential impact of your work. You will learn how to develop a persuasive proposal that clearly communicates the strengths of the researcher, the importance of the research question, and the suitability of the proposed methods.

What's included

1 reading1 assignment1 plugin

This module guides you through the key preparation stages of developing a research proposal. You will learn how to define and articulate a clear research question, create a coherent research plan, and use the proposal-writing process to refine your ideas, structure your thinking, and communicate your project effectively.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

This module explores the key elements of writing a successful research proposal. You will learn how to interpret and apply proposal guidelines, structure your ideas clearly and persuasively, and communicate your research plans in a logical, concise, and compelling way to meet the expectations of proposal reviewers.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

This module provides a practical guide to writing a research proposal, covering the key sections commonly required and the purpose of each. Through examples and guidance, you will learn how to develop and structure a proposal that clearly communicates your research aims, methods, and rationale while meeting the requirements of different review and approval processes.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

This module explores common challenges that can arise during the proposal-writing process and how to address them effectively. You will learn to identify potential obstacles, critically evaluate and refine your ideas, and develop practical strategies for adapting your proposal while maintaining a clear, persuasive, and well-justified research plan.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

In addition to the glossary you’ll find woven throughout the course, you can find the full glossary collated in one place here.

What's included

1 plugin

Instructor

Sage Instructors
Sage Publications
124 Courses4,221 learners

Offered by

Explore more from Education

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.

Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."

Jennifer J.

Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."

Larry W.

Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."

Chaitanya A.

"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."

Frequently asked questions