Updated on March 2023

BANGLADESH UNIVERSITY OF PROFESSIONALS (BUP)

Guidelines for 1st Seminar (Research Proposal), 2nd Seminar

(Research Advancement) and 3rd Seminar (Pre-Defense) Paper
Submission and Seminar Presentation for Doctor of Philosophy
(PhD) Programmme

Prepared By:

Centre for Higher Studies and Research

Bangladesh University of Professionals
Mirpur Cantonment, Dhaka-1216, Bangladesh
 Updated on March 2023

GENERAL REQUIREMENT

Introduction

1. This guideline is intended to assist the researcher of CHSR in the preparation

of their thesis/dissertation in terms of formatting and writing conventions.
Researchers should follow closely to this guideline and seek clarification from
CHSR on specific matters relating to the preparation of their thesis/dissertation. This
guideline is prepared to help the researchers to follow an established academic
practice for writing the thesis. However, this is a general guideline and any deviation
from which will be acceptable subject to scientific logic and justification. Even the
lay out of the thesis/dissertation may vary depending on the respective field of study.
The general requirements for preparing the research proposal have been discussed
in the subsequent paragraphs.

Language

2. The thesis/dissertation should be written in English. The English used

throughout should be consistent throughout the thesis, especially needs to follow
either style in terms of spelling (American or British). The Roman alphabets may be
used unless otherwise required by the discipline.

Technical Specifications

3. The thesis/dissertation must be printed on a Letter Quality or Laser printer.

Only the original copy of the thesis/dissertation or good and clean photocopies will
be accepted. Copies with correcting fluid will not be accepted. Print should be with
dark black characters that are consistently clear and dense. For 1st Seminar (Research
Proposal), 2nd Seminar (Research Advancement) and 3rd Seminar (Pre-defense)
paper print should be on both side. For final submission printing will be on single
side.

Page Layout

4. The text should be presented in the portrait layout. The landscape layout may
be used for figures and tables.

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Type of Paper

5. White simile A4 size (210mm x 297mm) paper (80g) or paper of equivalent

size should be used. Researchers must include an extra blank sheet for the front and
back of the thesis/dissertation. Photocopies of the thesis/dissertation must be on
similar quality paper.

Typeface and Font Size

6. The text of the thesis/dissertation must be produced with the same font or
typeface. Times New Roman typeface font along with 12 point font size should be
followed and the entire scripts should not be either scripted or italicized except for
scientific names and terms used in a different language. Footnotes and text in tables
should not be less than 8-point.

Margins

7. The left margin should be at least 40 mm, followed by the right, top and
bottom margins at least 25 mm. Margin specifications are meant to facilitate binding
and trimming.

Line Spacing

8. The thesis/dissertation should be 1.5 Line Spaced, with single Line-space

between paragraphs and sections. The following, however, should be single Line-
spaced:
i. Footnotes (if absolutely necessary);
ii. Quotations
iii. References
iv. Multi-line captions (tables, figures);
v. Appendices, such as questionnaires, letters; and
vi. Headings or subheadings.

Pagination

9. All pages (except title fly) should be numbered consecutively throughout the
thesis/dissertation, including pages containing tables, figures, and appendices. Page
numbers should be centered either centrally or right flushed at either the top or
bottom margins. Page numbers should appear by themselves and should not be
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placed in brackets, be hyphenated, or be accompanied by decorative images. Text,

tables, and figures should be printed on one side of each sheet only. Preliminary
pages preceding Introduction must be numbered in lowercase Roman numerals (i, ii,
iii etc.). The first page should begin with Arabic numeral from where introduction
begins.

Binding

10. Before making the required number of copies and binding the paper, ensure
that all University requirements have been met and necessary signatures have been
obtained. Check that all pages are in the correct order. The paper should be of a fixed
kind in which pages are permanently secured. The researchers should not use rank,
designation, degree etc., before or after his/her name.

Submission

11. Researchers should take following action:

i. Researcher should first submit a soft copy of the research

thesis/dissertation (Proposal/Advancement/Pre-defense) to CHSR for
Similarity Index Check with the researcher’s Similarity Index Check report
signed by the supervisor.

ii. If the similarity index report is okay CHSR will request the researcher to
submit nine (9) hard copies of the paper.

iii. The submitted paper should contain the steps taken on the comments from
Pro-VC, concerned Dean and Panel members. If some of the points from
them cannot be taken the justification behind must be explained.

iv. A short biography of the researcher should also be submitted.

Researchers should take following actions:
12. For defense, following actions to be taken for submission:

a. 15 days if the thesis is accepted with distinction.

b. 30 days if the thesis is accepted with minor modifications: or
c. 60 days if the thesis is accepted with major modifications after the successful

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completion of 3rd Seminar (Pre-defense).

13. The final copy of the thesis, after defense, should be submitted to CHSR as
per paragraph 12 above.

Section, Sub-Sections and Sub- Subsection

14. Theses should be divided as appropriate into sections, sub-sections, and sub-
subsections. The system of headings must be consistent and should provide a clear
indication of changes in content, emphasis and other features that occur at each stage
of the work.

Headings

15. It is recommended that all headings should be Bold. The recommended style
is: 14 points with capitalized initial letters for section headings; 12-point with
capitalized initial letters for sub-section headings; 12-point italicized for sub-
subsection-headings. All headings should be on separate lines from the text.

Headers and Footers

16. If headers are used then the recommended style is:

Introduction

The font will be 14-point with Bold. Footers must be used only for pagination.

Tables and Figures

17. Tables and Figures shall be numbered consecutively throughout the paper–
Table 1, Figure 1 etc. Within the text tables should be referred to as table 1 etc. For
the table/s caption and number should be written top of the table. And for figures the
caption and number must be written bottom of the figure/s. This procedure (caption
and numbering) is applicable in all the places where table and figures are available
in the paper.

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Equations

18. Equations placed on separate lines from the text should be numbered whether
they are referred to in the text. Numbering should appear in round brackets at the
right-hand side of the page and be ordered consecutively either throughout the paper
(1) etc. , or in each section (1.1) etc. Equations should be referred to in the text as
equation (1) etc.

Use of Color

19. Color may be used in diagrams and figures. However, it is recommended that
such use be kept to a minimum, being reserved for situations where it is essential for
clarity. The use of color must be the same in all presentation copies of the paper.

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BANGLADESH UNIVERSITY OF PROFESSIONALS (BUP)

Guidelines for 1st Seminar (Research Proposal) Paper Submission and

Presentation for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Programme

Introduction
1. All the fellows enrolled in PhD program under the Centre for Higher Studies
and Research (CHSR), Bangladesh University of Professions (BUP) are required to
undergo course works for one (01) year. After successful completion of course works,
they are required to submit the research proposal paper and present first seminar on
the proposal paper in the beginning of second year. Guidelines for presenting first
seminar have been mentioned in the subsequent paragraphs. This guideline is prepared
to help the researchers to follow an established academic practice for writing the
thesis. However, this is only a guideline and deviation from which may be acceptable
with supporting academic logic. Even the lay out of the paper may vary depending on
the field of study.
Outline
2. Research proposal is to assess the quality and originality of researcher’s ideas,
skills in critical thinking and the feasibility of the research project. Researcher must
bear in mind that PhD program is of Three (03) years. So, researcher should think
very carefully about the scope of his/her research and be prepared to explain how
he/she will complete it within the relevant timeframe. Research proposal is also used
to assess researcher’s expertise in the area in which he/she wants to conduct research
and knowledge of the existing literature.
3. Crucially, it is also an opportunity for the researcher to communicate his/her
passion in the subject area and to make a persuasive argument about what his/her
project can accomplish. Although the proposal should include an outline, it is also an
opportunity to establish the attention of readers and convince them of the importance
of the study.

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4. This paper is a reference and guide to help researchers in ensuring that they
conform to formats which fulfill the requirements of a standard research paper. The
guideline contains both specific and general guidelines for preparation of the research
proposal, including guidelines on matters relating to format, length, footnotes, tables,
appendices, references, citation and referencing styles, the words required for abstract,
permissible languages, publications, similarity index, submission, and presentation.

Research Proposal

5. Research proposals may vary in length, but generally the written paper should
be 10-15 pages. The presentation of the paper should take maximum 20-30 minutes.
There will be at least 10 minutes scheduled for questions and answers, and 20 minutes
for feedback and discussion by research experts. Researcher should submit the
Research Proposal along with a short biography of him/her two (02) weeks prior to the
scheduled presentation date to the CHSR office.
6. A research proposal is an outline of proposed research that is designed to:
a. Define a clear question and approach to answering it.

b. Highlight its originality and/or significance.

c. Explain how it adds to, develops (or challenges) existing literature in
the field.

Publication

7. PhD Researchers need to publish at least two articles related to their field of
study in recognized peer-reviewed journals having ISSN. One such article needs to be
submitted to CHSR before second seminar, and one before Pre-defense seminar.

Plagiarism

8. The approved similarity index for plagiarism check is 20% for BUP. It is to be
made sure that researcher acknowledges the authors of all publications he/she uses to
write the proposal. Failure to do so will be considered as plagiarism. Researcher
should not copy word for word what an author has said. If the researcher wants to
copy at all, then he/she should make sure that he/she uses quotation marks and italics
to indicate it. The policy for plagiarism of CHSR to be followed sincerely.

Contents of Research Proposal

9. The contents of the Research Proposal are as under:

a. Title

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b. Abstract and Keywords

c. Introduction
d. Problem Statement
e. Rationale of the Study
f. Literature Review and Research Gap.
g. Research Objectives
h. Research Question and/or Hypothesis
i. Theoretical and /or Conceptual Framework
j. Research Methodology/Materials and Methods
(1) Research Philosophy
(2) Research Design
(3) Data type
(4) Study Period
(5) Study Location
(6) Sample Selection Criteria
(7) Ethical Considerations
(8) Sampling Plan (study population, sampling type, Sample Selection
Criteria, sample size selection)
(9) Research Instruments, Data Collection Process, questionnaire format,
Data analysis process, validity, reliability and the authenticity of Data,
Data Processing, and quality control of Data
(10) Research Procedure
(11) Summary
k. Expected Results and Significance of the Study

l. Limitation of the Study

m. Timetable
n. Concluding Remarks
o. References

p. Appendices: Proposed Survey Questionnaire, Interview / FGD / KII Questions,

Observations Check List etc. (as applicable).
q. Researcher’s Short Biography: Researcher’s Photo, Academic and Professional
Background, Publications, Major Achievements, and Research Project Work (If
applicable).

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Title

10. The title summarizes the main idea or ideas of the study. A good title contains
the fewest possible words needed to adequately describe the content and/or purpose of
the research paper. It is the first part of a research proposal that is seen by the relevant
research committees, and it is essential to give a good impression from the very
beginning. Obviously, at this stage it will not be the final title of finished research -
that will often depend upon the results. However, a working title is needed, and this
working title will summarize the proposed research. Important ‘keywords’ to be
included which will relate the proposal. Effective titles in academic research papers
have several characteristics as follows:

a. Indicate accurately the subject and scope of the study.

b. Minimum use of abbreviations unless they are commonly known.
c. Use words that create a positive impression and stimulate readers’ interest.
d. Is limited to 10-15 words.
e. All letters of the words should be capitalized.
f. Bracket should not be used.

11. It should be noted that if researcher needs/wants to change/modify the titled that
has already been approved by the academic council, he/she is advised to fill up the
prescribed form with recommendation of the supervisor to change/modify the title and
submit to CHSR at least one month prior to the presentation. Only minor
modifications are allowed.

Abstract and Keywords

12. An abstract is a summary of the proposal. To capture the essence of the

proposal, the abstract should summarize all the elements of the proposal, except the
references and work plan. It starts by describing the background of the study. It then
briefly presents the research statement and proposed research objectives and approach.
It concludes with the expected outcome. The number of words should not exceed
250.

13. Keywords are important words/concepts found in your research and these
should be mentioned at the end of the Abstract under heading Keywords. Keywords
should be in Italic font.

Introduction

14. The introduction leads the reader from a general subject area to a particular field
of research. The introduction provides a brief rationale for why the proposed study is
worth pursuing. It explains why other people should care about it (establishes its

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importance). It explains the significance of the research. The introduction serves to

familiarize the reader with the topic of the proposal.

15. It also provides a summary of the literature on research related to the problem
being investigated. It should briefly outline the objectives of the project and provide
enough background to enable the reader to place this research problem in the context
of common knowledge.

Problem Statement

16. The statement of the problem provides the focus and direction of the study. A
good statement of the problem clearly defines the problem, states the concepts to be
related in the study and identifies a feasible solution to the problem. A well-written
problem statement helps identify the variables to be investigated in the study.

Rationale of the Study

17. The rationale of the study explains the potential value of the research and
findings to science or society. It also identifies the target audience of the study and
how the results will benefit them. It explains the ways the study will add to the
scholarly knowledge in the field, how it improves the practice or policy.
Literature Review

18. The purpose of the literature review is to summarize, evaluate and compare the
main developments and current debates in the field, which are specifically relevant to
the subject of research embodied in the thesis. The key objective of the literature
review is to demonstrate that the research will fill an important gap in the current
research on the subject. Literature review serves to answer the following questions:

a. What research has already been done in your field and what is your
understanding of the findings?
b. What do you think is missing?
c. How has previous research not explained the questions that your
study seeks to address.

19. By evaluating the research idea against the larger context of what has been
explored, the literature review allows to demonstrate that the work is original and
innovative. The literature review should be accompanied by comprehensive
references, which are listed at the end of the proposal. The appropriate referencing
conventions should be followed strictly, and it should ensure that the documents
referred to in the body of the proposal are not missing in the final list of references.
Finally, the research gap is to be highlighted.

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Research Objectives

20. Research objectives outline the specific goals the study plans to achieve when
completed. The research objectives are usually divided into i. General objective/broad
objective ii. Specific objectives. The general (broad) objective or goal and specific
objectives are not the same and should be dealt with separately. The general objective
defines the contribution of the project in a bigger context thereby defining the purpose
of the project. Specific objectives are statements of precise outcomes that can be
measured in support of the project's general objective. The research objective/s must
have relations with the research question/s and/or hypothesis.
Research Question and/or Hypothesis

21. A research question is a clear, focused, and arguable question around which
researcher plan to carry out his/her research. A research question can be answered
directly through the analysis of data. Example Topic: The role of diet on student
performance. Research Question: Is there any relationship between the diet and
student performance in class? A research question is associated with the problem
statement and can be answered directly through the analysis of data, but a hypothesis
is the researcher’s best guess of the answer to the research question. Hypotheses are
generated from specific theories, but research questions often attempt to
refute/validate various theories through the testing of their associated hypotheses.
Theoretical and/or Conceptual Framework

22. A Theoretical/Conceptual Framework is an analytical tool with several

variations and contexts. It is used to make theoretical/conceptual distinctions and
organize ideas. Strong conceptual frameworks capture something real and do this in a
way that is easy to remember and apply. Theoretical/Conceptual frameworks are
abstract representations, connected to the research project's goals that direct the
collection and analysis of data.
Research Methodology/Materials and Method

23. Research method provides a description of the exact (specific) actions, plan, or
strategy to be used to answer the research questions. Methodology of a project spells
out in specific steps and procedures how the research will be undertaken. It is
necessary to link each of the specific objectives to the methods to account for all
activities of the project. This also outlines the apparatus, instruments, and procedures
to be used to answer the research questions. The method section is really the heart of
the research proposal. It must be indicated whether Qualitative or Quantitative or
Mixed Method to be used. The method section typically consists of the following
sections:

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(1) Research Philosophy

(2) Research Design
(3) Data type
(4) Study Period
(5) Study Location
(6) Sample Selection Criteria
(7) Ethical Considerations
(8) Sampling Plan (study population, sampling type, Sample Selection
Criteria, sample size selection)
(9) Research Instruments, Data Collection Process, questionnaire format,
Data analysis process, validity, reliability and the authenticity of Data,
Data Processing, and quality control of Data
(10) Research Procedure
(11) Summary

Expected Results and Significance of the Study

24. Obviously, a researcher does not have results at the proposal stage. However, in
this section a researcher should give a good indication of what he/she expects to get
out of the research. It should join the data analysis and possible outcomes to the theory
and questions that have been raised. It will be a good place to summarize the
significance of the work. It is important to convince the reader of the potential impact
of the proposed research. A sense of enthusiasm and confidence is needed to
communicate the merits of the proposal without exaggeration.

Limitation of the Study

25. The actual limitations of the research should be detailed in this para.

Timetable

26. Estimated timetable (if possible, in table form) of the research to be framed,
indicating the sequence of research phases and the time that is needed for each phase.

27. The work plan presents the timelines of various activities the researcher plans to
do and the specific milestones of the project. The plan should also anticipate the
conferences and journals, to which the work in progress is expected to be submitted
along the way, and schedule it in a goal for publication section of the work plan.

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Concluding Remarks and Recommendations

28. This will summarize the whole proposal.

References

29. Researchers need to understand the difference between Reference and

Bibliography. A reference list includes the details of all the resources you have
quoted or paraphrased in your assignment. However, a bibliography includes details of
all the resources you used to produce your assignment, including those you did not
quote or paraphrase. In this stage, researchers are advised to prepare the reference list,
therefore, all publications only cited in the Research Proposal should be presented in a
list of references following the text. Sources of Wikipedia should not be used as
reference.

30. Reference lists are created to allow readers to locate original sources of the
work/s. The following general requirements to be observed:

a. Reference list must include all works cited in the text (including those
included in figures, legends, and tables).
b. All references should be relevant and up to date.
c. All references listed must be cited in the text.
d. Start the references on a separate page, and references list in
alphabetical order by the first author’s name; do not number the references.

31. References should follow the Harvard-like format. In this format each citation
in a reference list includes various pieces of information including the:

a. Name of the author(s)

b. Year published
c. Title
d. City published
e. Publisher
f. Pages used

32. Citation of references in the text should be given by author’s last name (no
initials) followed by the year. When two or more citations of the same author are
given, list them in chronological order (year wise). When there are two authors,
include both names, separate them by putting “&” in between. When there are three or
more names, give only the first author followed by “et al”. If there are two or more
papers by the same author/s in the same year, place them in alphabetical order by the
title.

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33. List all the authors (do not use “et al.) in the reference list. When there are two
or more references of the same author/s, list them in chronological order (year wise).
In the reference list, the name of authors (last name and initials) should be followed by
the year within parentheses, title of the article, journal name (in italics) volume
number to be followed by a colon and pages to be numbered first-last page numbers.
Reference to electronic material should include author’s name/s, date, article title, and
journal (as above); where volume and /or page numbers are not available, substitute
Digital Object Identifier (DOI) number.

34. Generally, Harvard Reference List citations follow this format:

• Last name, First Initial. (Year published). Title. City: Publisher, Page(s).
• Citations are listed in alphabetical order by the author’s last name.
• If there are multiple sources by the same author, then citations are listed in order
by the date of publication.

35. Harvard Reference List Citations for Books with One Author:

The structure for a Harvard Reference List citation for books with one author includes
the following:

• Last name, first initial. (Year published). Title. Edition. (Only include the
edition if it is not the first edition) City published: Publisher, Page(s).

If the edition isn’t listed, it is safe to assume that it is the first addition, and does not
need to be included in the citation.

Example: One author AND first edition:

• Patterson, J. (2005). Maximum ride. New York: Little, Brown, pp. 31-32.

Example: One author AND NOT the first edition

• Dahl, R. (2004). Charlie and the chocolate factory. 6th ed. New York: Knopf.

36. Harvard Reference List Citations for Books with Two or More Authors:
When creating a citation that has more than one author, place the names in the order in
which they appear on the source. Use the word “and” to separate the names.

• Last name, First initial. and Last name, First initial. (Year published). Title.
City: Publisher, Page(s).

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Example:

• Desikan, S. and Ramesh, G. (2006). Software testing. Bangalore, India: Dorling

Kindersley, p.156.
• Vermaat, M., Sebok, S., Freund, S., Campbell, J. and Frydenberg, M. (2014).
Discovering computers. Boston: Cengage Learning, pp.446-448.
• Daniels, K., Patterson, G. and Dunston, Y. (2014). The ultimate student
teaching guide. 2nd ed. Los Angeles: SAGE Publications, pp.145-151.

37. Harvard Reference List Citations for Chapters in Edited Books: When
citing a chapter in an edited book, use the following format:

• Last name, First initial. (Year published). Chapter title. In: First initial. Last
name, ed., Book Title, 1st ed.* City: Publisher, Page(s).
• Bressler, L. (2010). My girl, Kylie. In: L. Matheson, ed., The Dogs That We
Love, 1st ed. Boston: Jacobson Ltd., pp. 78-92.

38. Harvard Reference List Citations for Multiple Works By The Same Author

When there are multiple works by the same author, place the citations in order by year.
When sources are published in the same year, place them in alphabetical order by the
title.

Example:

• Brown, D. (1998). Digital fortress. New York: St. Martin's Press.

• Brown, D. (2003). Deception point. New York: Atria Books.
• Brown, D. (2003). The Da Vinci code. New York: Doubleday.

39. Harvard Reference List Citations for Print Journal Articles

The standard structure of a print journal citation includes the following components:

• Last name, First initial. (Year published). Article title. Journal, Volume (Issue),
Page(s).

Examples:

• Ross, N. (2015). On Truth Content and False Consciousness in Adorno’s

Aesthetic Theory. Philosophy Today, 59(2), pp. 269-290.
• Dismuke, C. and Egede, L. (2015). The Impact of Cognitive, Social and
Physical Limitations on Income in Community Dwelling Adults With Chronic

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Medical and Mental Disorders. Global Journal of Health Science, 7(5), pp. 183-
195.

40. Harvard Reference List Citations for Journal Articles Found on a

Database or on a Website

When citing journal articles found on a database or through a website, include all of
the components found in a citation of a print journal, but also include the medium
([online]), the website URL, and the date that the article was accessed.

Structure:

• Last name, First initial. (Year published). Article Title. Journal, [online]
Volume(Issue), pages. Available at: URL [Accessed Day Mo. Year].

Example:

• Raina, S. (2015). Establishing Correlation Between Genetics and Nonresponse.

Journal of Postgraduate Medicine, [online] Volume 61(2), p. 148. Available at:
http://www.proquest.com/products-services/ProQuest-Research-Library.html
[Accessed 8 Apr. 2015].

41. Harvard Reference List Citations for Print Newspaper Articles

When citing a newspaper, use the following structure:

• Last name, first initial. (Year published). Article title. Newspaper, Page(s).

Example:

• Weisman, J. (2015). Deal Reached on Fast-Track Authority for Obama on

Trade Accord. The New York Times, p. A1.

42. Harvard Reference List Citations for Newspaper Articles Found on a

Database or a Website

To cite a newspaper found either on a database or a website, use the following

structure:

• Last name, First initial. (Year published). Article title. Newspaper, [online]
pages. Available at: url [Accessed Day Mo. Year].

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Example:

• Harris, E. (2015). For Special-Needs Students, Custom Furniture Out of

Schoolhouse Scraps. New York Times, [online] p. A20. Available at:
http://go.galegroup.com [Accessed 17 Apr. 2015].

43. Harvard Reference List Citations for Print Magazines

When citing magazines, use the following structure:

• Last name, First initial. (Year published). Article title. Magazine, (Volume),
Page(s).

Example:

• Davidson, J. (2008). Speak her language. Men’s Health, (23), pp.104-106.

44. Harvard Reference List Citations for Websites

When citing a website, use the following structure:

• Last name, First initial. (Year published). Page title. [online] Website name.
Available at: URL [Accessed Day Mo. Year].

When no author is listed, use the following structure:

• Website name, (Year published). Page title. [online] Available at: URL
[Accessed Day Mo. Year].

Example:

• Messer, L. (2015). 'Fancy Nancy' Optioned by Disney Junior. [online] ABC

News. Available at: http://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/fancy-nancy-
optioned-disney-junior-2017/story?id=29942496#.VRWbWJwmbs0.twitter
[Accessed 31 Mar. 2015].
• Mms.com, (2015). M&M'S Official Website. [online] Available at:
http://www.mms.com/ [Accessed 20 Apr. 2015].

45. Harvard Reference List Citations for eBooks and PDFs

When citing eBooks and PDFs, include the edition, even if it’s the first edition, and
follow it with the type of resource in brackets (either [ebook] or [pdf]). Include the url
at the end of the citation with the date it was accessed in brackets.

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Use the following structure:

• Last name, First initial. (Year published). Title. Edition. [format] City:
Publisher, page(s). Available at: URL [Accessed Day Mo. Year].

• Zusack, M. (2015). The Book Thief. 1st ed. [ebook] New York: Knopf.
Available at: http://ebooks.nypl.org/ [Accessed 20 Apr. 2015].
• Robin, J. (2014). A handbook for professional learning: research, resources,
and strategies for implementation. 1st ed. [pdf] New York: NYC Department of
Education. Available at http://schools.nyc.gov/ [Accessed 14 Apr. 2015].

46. Harvard Reference List Citations for Archive Material

Archival materials are information sources that are used to provide evidence of past
events. Archival materials are generally collected and housed by organizations, such
as universities, libraries, repositories, or historical societies. Examples can include
manuscripts, letters, diaries, or any other artifact that the organization decides to
collect and house.

The structure for archival materials includes:

• Last name, First initial. (Year published). Title of the material. [format] Name
of the university, library, organization, Collection name, code, or number. City.

Examples:

• Pearson, J. (1962). Letter to James Martin. [letter] The Jackson Historical

Society, Civil Rights Collection. Jackson.
• Marshall, S. and Peete, L. (1882). Events Along the Canal. [program] Afton
Library, Yardley History. Yardley.

47. Harvard Reference List Citations for Conference Proceedings

Conference proceedings are academic papers or presentations that are created or used
for the purpose of a meeting or conference.

Use the following structure to cite a conference proceeding:

If published online:

• Last name, First initial. (Conference Year). Title of Paper or Proceedings. In:
Name or Title of Conference. [online] City: Publisher of the Proceedings, pages.
Available at: URL [Accessed Day Mo. Year].

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If not published online:

• Last name, First initial. (Conference Year). Title of Paper or Proceedings. In:
Name or Title of Conference. City: Publisher of the Proceedings, pages.

Examples:

• Palmer, L., Gover, E. and Doublet, K. (2013). Advocating for Your Tech
Program. In: National Conference for Technology Teachers. [online] New
York: NCTT, pp. 33-34. Available at:
http://www.nctt.com/2013conference/advocatingforyourtechprogram/
[Accessed 11 Jan. 2014].
• Fox, R. (2014). Technological Advances in Banking. In: American Finance
Association Northeast Regional Conference. Hartford: AFA, p. 24.

48. Harvard Reference List Citations for Government Publications

Government publications consist of documents that are issued by local, state, or

federal governments, offices, or subdivisions.

Use the following format to cite the government publications:

• Government Agency OR Last name, First Initial., (Year published). Title of

Document or Article. City published: Publisher, Page(s).

Examples:

• Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, (2012). BicyclePA Routes.

Harrisburg: PENNDOT, p.1.

49. However, a researcher may follow any other referencing format other than
Harvard style. The format must be internationally accepted by academia and related to
his/her research title. In any case, a particular referencing style must be followed for
the whole paper.

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Sample cover page

Title of Research
(Capital, Bold, and Inverted Pyramid Form)

A Research Proposal Paper Submitted to the Centre for Higher Studies and
Research, Bangladesh University of Professionals for First Seminar for the
Degree of Doctor of Philosophy

By
Researcher’s Name
PhD Researcher
Roll No. -
Registration No. -
Session:

Under Supervision of
[[
[

Supervisor’s Name, PhD

Professor/Associate Professor
Name of Department
Name of Faculty
Name of University/Institution

Day-Month-Year

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Declaration by Researcher

Here the author declares that the material has not been used for other awards from other institutions and all sources are
acknowledged.

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the research work conducted to prepare the research proposal paper entitled “xxx” has
been carried out under the Centre for Higher Studies and Research, Bangladesh University of Professionals in
fulfillment of the requirement for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy. I have composed this research proposal paper
based on original research findings from xxx acquired by me along with references from published literature. This has
not been submitted in part or full for to other institution to any other degree. I also certify that there is no plagiarized
content in this paper.

DD/Month/Year
Name : xxx
PhD Researcher
Roll No. : xxx
Registration No.: xxx
Session: xxx
Centre for Higher Studies and Research
Bangladesh University of Professionals

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Declaration by Supervisor

Here the supervisor declares that the researcher worked under his/her supervision. Moreover, supervisor also declares
that the material has not been used for other awards from other institutions and all sources are acknowledged.

CERTIFICATE OF THE SUPERVISOR

This is to certify that Ms./Mr. xxx carried out his/her PhD research proposal under my guidelines and
supervision, and subject to prepare the thesis with a view to conducting the research entitled xxx. So far as I am aware,
the researcher duly acknowledged the other researchers’ materials and sources used in this work. Further, the paper was
not submitted to any other universities or institutions for any other degree or diplomas.

It is thus recommended that the research proposal paper be submitted to the Centre for Higher Studies and
Research, Bangladesh University of Professionals. I also certify that there is no plagiarized content in this paper.

DD/Month/Year
Supervisor’s Name, PhD
Professor/Associate Professor
Name of Department:
Name of Faculty:
Name of University/Institution

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Abstract

An abstract is a summary of the Thesis. To capture the essence of the work, the abstract should summarize all the
elements of the paper, except the references. It starts by describing the background of the study. It then presents briefly
the research statement and proposed research objectives and approach. It concludes with the results and recommendation
and/or future study. The number of words should not exceed 250.

Keywords: Write 5 -6 keywords from the thesis. Keywords should be Italic.

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Table of Contents

Ser Content Page number

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List of Tables

A sample of List of Tables page is shown below:

LIST OF TABLES

SL. Content Page No.

1. Table 1:
2. Table 2:

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List of Figures

A sample of List of Figures page is shown below:

LIST OF FIGURES

SL. Content Page No.

1. Figure 1:
2. Figure 2:

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List of Charts

A sample of List of Charts page is shown below:

LIST OF CHARTS

SL. Content Page No.

1. Chart 1:
2. Chart 2:

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List of Acronyms and Abbreviation

A sample of List of Acronyms and Abbreviation page is shown below:

LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Acronyms/Abbreviation Expressions
BUP Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP)
ADB Asian Development Bank

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CHAPTER ONE

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BANGLADESH UNIVERSITY OF PROFESSIONALS (BUP)

Guidelines for 2nd Seminar (Research Advancement) Paper Submission

and Presentation of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Programme

Introduction

1. At the end of second year, on completion of necessary corrections pointed out in

the first seminar and data collection, the fellow will submit his/her research
advancement paper and present Second Seminar. The purpose of the Second Seminar
is to show the advancement/progress of data collection and analysis and to convince
the authority that he/she has corrected/modified the study as recommended by
supervisor/panel members during First Presentation.

Outline

2. In the second Seminar the researcher should follow the same contents covered
in the First Seminar along with Data Analysis and interpretation (Ref. paragraph 7 k
below), Discussions and Significance of the Study (Ref. paragraph 7 l below), and
Chapter Outline (Ref. paragraph 7 n below). It is to be mentioned that the Discussion
is the Results/Findings of the study which will be written in place of Expected Results
(Ref. paragraphs 24 of Guidelines for First Seminar). The researcher will include
limitation of the study in this paper.

Research Advancement Paper

3. Researcher should remember that the Research Advancement Paper he/she

produces in this Seminar is the research upgrade/update product.

4. Research Advancement Paper may vary in length and the maximum words
should be 30,000-50,000 words. The presentation of the thesis is maximum 30-40
minutes. There will be at least 10 minutes scheduled for questions and answers, and 20
minutes for feedback and discussion by Panel members. Researcher should submit the

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Research Advancement Paper along with a short Biography of him/her two (02) weeks
prior to the scheduled presentation date to the CHSR office.

Publication

5. For details about publication paragraph 7 of Guidelines for First Seminar under
heading Publication is referred.

Plagiarism

6. Plagiarism is Completely Forbidden. For other details about plagiarism

paragraph 8 of Guidelines for First Seminar under the heading Plagiarism is referred.

Contents of Research Advancement

7. The contents of Research Advancement are as under:

a. Title
b. Abstract and Keywords
c. Introduction
d. Problem Statement
e. Rationale of the Study
f. Literature Review and Research Gap
g. Research Objectives
h. Research Question and/or Hypothesis
i. Theoretical and/ or Conceptual Framework
j. Research Methodology/Materials and Method

(1) Study Design and Period.

(2) Study Location
(3) Study Population
(4) Sample Selection Criteria
(5) Sampling Technique and Size
(6) Research Instruments
(7) Data Collection Techniques, Data Processing, and quality control of
Data
(8) Research Procedures
(9) Ethical Considerations

k. Themed Topic Chapters (May be more than one chapter as the thesis
demands)

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l. Data Analysis and Interpretation

m. Discussions and Significance of the Study
n. Results
o. Limitations of the Study
p. Chapter Outline
q. Timetable
r. Concluding Remarks
s. References/ Bibliography
t. Researcher’s Publications
u. Appendices: Proposed Survey Questionnaire, Interview / FGD / KII
Questions, Observations Check List etc (As applicable).
v. Researcher’s Short Biography: Researcher’s Photo, Academic and
Professional Background, Publications, Major Achievements, and
Research Project Work (If applicable).

Title

8. Title should be as per paragraphs 10 of Guidelines for Research Proposal Paper

under heading Title. However, here the changed/modified title as recommended by
supervisor/panel experts may replace the title proposed in the First Seminar. For other
details about title paragraphs 10 and 11 of Guidelines for First Seminar under heading
Title is referred. Total number of words are limited to 10-15.

Abstract and Keywords

9. Abstract should be as per paragraph 12 of Guidelines for research proposal

paper under heading Abstract. However, here the changed/modified abstract as
recommended by supervisor/panel experts may replace the abstract proposed in the
proposal paper. The number of words should not exceed 250.

10. Keywords should be as per paragraph 13 of Guidelines for research proposal

paper under heading Abstract and Keywords. Keywords should be in Italic font.

Introduction

11. The Introduction should be as per paragraphs 14 and 15 of Guidelines for

research proposal paper under heading Introduction. However, Introduction may also
be modified if recommended by supervisor/panel experts.

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Problem Statement

12. The statement of the problem should be as per paragraph 16 of Guidelines for
research proposal paper under heading Problem Statement of the Study. This
paragraph may also be modified if recommended by supervisor/panel experts.

Rationale of the Study

13. The rationale of the study should be as per paragraph 17 of Guidelines for
research proposal paper under heading Rationale of the Study. This paragraph may
also be modified if recommended by supervisor/panel experts.

Literature Review

14. Literature review should be as per paragraphs 18 and 19 of Guidelines for First
Seminar under heading Literature Review. However, researcher should do the
extensive literature review in Second Seminar along with the recommended literatures
by supervisor/panel experts. All the additional literatures along with previous
literatures review to be incorporated in the Second Seminar. The literature review may
further include:

-At least recent 25 studies conducted on the topic

-Critical Review
- Theoretical framework
-Empirical review or systematic review
- Research gaps
-Conceptual framework and
-Hypothesis

Research Objectives

15. Research objectives should be as per paragraph 20 of Guidelines for First

Seminar under heading Research Objectives. However, research objectives may also
be modified if recommended by supervisor/panel experts.

Research Question and/or Hypothesis

16. The Research Question and/or Hypothesis should be as per paragraph 21 of

Guidelines for First Seminar under heading Research Question and/or Hypothesis.
However, Research Question and/or Hypothesis may also be modified if
recommended by supervisor/panel experts.

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Theoretical and/or Conceptual Framework

17. Conceptual/Theoretical Framework should be as per paragraph 22 of Guidelines

for Proposal paper under heading Conceptual/Theoretical Framework. This may not be
a separate chapter always. Theoretical framework may be within introduction and
Conceptual framework within methodology.

Research Methodology/ Materials and Methods

18. Research Methodology should be as per paragraph 23 of Guidelines for First

Seminar under heading Research Methodology. However, researcher should explain
Research Method as detail as possible in Second Seminar along with the modification
recommended by supervisor/panel experts. All the parts (Design, Sample, Instruments,
and Procedure) should be clear and well explained.

Themed Topic Chapters

19. . There may be one or more themed topic chapters in the final thesis. These will be
chapters related with research, which the research necessitates highlighting.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

20. Researcher should incorporate the Data Analysis in Second Seminar. Analysis
of data, also known as data analytics, is a process of inspecting, cleansing,
transforming, and modeling data with the goal of discovering useful information,
suggesting conclusions, and supporting decision-making. It is the process of
systematically applying, describe and illustrate, and evaluate data. An essential
component of all the tables and figures, a separate caption must be mentioned. For
other details refer paragraph 15 heading Tables and Figures under General
Requirement attached with the Guidelines for research proposal paper.

Discussions and Significance of the Study

21. In this section, researcher should discuss the finding of the study and the
expected results, if any, as per paragraph 24 of Guidelines for First Seminar under
heading Expected Results and Significance of the Study. However, here the
modification as recommended by supervisor/panel experts may be incorporated.

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Results

22. The result of the research needs to be explained here. The results related to all
the objectives and hypotheses are to be discussed one by one. If some objective is not
achieved, that also needs to be explained in line with the research in this chapter.

Limitations of the Study

23. Here a researcher should mention his/her limitations, what difficulties he/she
has faced so far and expected to face in carrying out further study.

Chapter Outline

24. Outline of the chapter refers the organization (along with brief explanation of
the content) of the chapters of the thesis. This should be incorporated in Research
advancement paper.

Timetable

25. Timetable should be as per paragraphs 26 and 27 of Guidelines for First

Seminar under heading Timetable of the Study.

Concluding Remarks

26. This will summarize the updated Research Advancement and probable
recommendation.

References/Bibliography

27. In this section researcher will update the list of all the references that he/she
made throughout the research advancement paper, making sure that he/she complies
with the referencing conventions or citation styles that have been established for the
specific field. For details paragraph 29 until 48 of Guidelines for First Seminar under
heading References is referred. Sources of Wikipedia should not be used as reference.

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Sample cover page

Title of Research
(Capital, Bold, and Inverted Pyramid Form)

A Research Advancement Paper Submitted to the Centre for Higher Studies and
Research, Bangladesh University of Professionals for Second Seminar for the
Degree of Doctor of Philosophy

By
Researcher’s Name
PhD Researcher
Roll No. -
Registration No. -
Session:

Under Supervision of
[[
[

Supervisor’s Name, PhD

Professor/Associate Professor
Name of Department
Name of Faculty
Name of University/Institution

Day-Month-Year

Page 7 of 16
 Updated on March 2023

Declaration by Researcher

Here the author declares that the material has not been used for other awards from other institutions and all sources are
acknowledged.

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the research work conducted to prepare the research advancement paper entitled “xxx” has
been carried out under the Centre for Higher Studies and Research, Bangladesh University of Professionals in
fulfillment of the requirement for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy. I have composed this research advancement paper
based on original research findings from xxx acquired by me along with references from published literature. This has
not been submitted in part or full for to other institution to any other degree. I also certify that there is no plagiarized
content in this paper.
.

DD/Month/Year
Name : xxx
PhD Researcher
Roll No. : xxx
Registration No.: xxx
Session: xxx
Centre for Higher Studies and Research
Bangladesh University of Professionals

Page 8 of 16
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Declaration by Supervisor

Here the supervisor declares that the researcher worked under his/her supervision. Moreover, the supervisor also declares
that the material has not been used for other awards from other institutions and all sources are acknowledged.

CERTIFICATE OF THE SUPERVISOR

This is to certify that Ms./Mr. xxx carried out his/her PhD research advancement under my guidelines and
supervision, and subject to prepare the thesis with a view to continue the research entitled xxx. So far as I am aware, the
researcher duly acknowledged the other researchers’ materials and sources used in this work. Further, the paper was not
submitted to any other universities or institutions for any other degree or diplomas.

It is thus recommended that the research advancement paper be submitted to the Centre for Higher Studies and
Research, Bangladesh University of Professionals. I also certify that there is no plagiarized content in this paper.

DD/Month/Year
Supervisor’s Name, PhD
Professor/Associate Professor
Name of Department:
Name of Faculty
Name of University/Institution

Page 9 of 16
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Abstract

An abstract is a summary of the Thesis. To capture the essence of the work, the abstract should summarize all the
elements of the paper, except the references. It starts by describing the background of the study. It then presents briefly
the research statement and proposed research objectives and approach. It concludes with the results and recommendation
and/or future study. The number of words should not exceed 250.

Keywords: Write 5 -6 keywords from the thesis. Keywords should be Italic.

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Table of Contents

Ser Content Page number

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List of Tables

A sample of List of Tables page is shown below:

LIST OF TABLES

SL. Content Page No.

1. Table 1:
2. Table 2:

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List of Figures

A sample of List of Figures page is shown below:

LIST OF FIGURES

SL. Content Page No.

1. Figure 1:
2. Figure 2:

Page 13 of 16
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List of Charts

A sample of List of Charts page is shown below:

LIST OF CHARTS

SL. Content Page No.

1. Chart 1:
2. Chart 2:

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List of Acronyms and Abbreviation

A sample of List of Acronyms and Abbreviation page is shown below:

LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Acronyms/Abbreviation Expressions
BUP Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP)
ADB Asian Development Bank

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CHAPTER ONE

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BANGLADESH UNIVERSITY OF PROFESSIONALS (BUP)

Guidelines for 3rd Seminar (Pre-Defense)/ Thesis Paper Submission

and Presentation for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Programme

Introduction

1. All the fellows enrolled in PhD program under the Centre for Higher Studies
and Research (CHSR), Bangladesh University of Professions (BUP) are required to
undergo course works for one (01) year. After successful completion of course works,
they are supposed to submit the proposal paper and present first seminar in the
beginning of second year. At the end of second year, on completion of necessary
corrections pointed out in the first seminar, data collection and data analysis, the
fellow is expected to submit his/her Research Advancement paper and present 2nd
seminar. On completion of necessary corrections and modification pointed out in the
second seminars, data collection, and data analysis, the fellow is supposed to submit
his/her Pre-defense/ thesis paper and present his/her final Thesis Paper in the Pre-
defense Seminar at the end of the third year.

Outline

2. Whilst originality is very much appreciated in a thesis, the thesis is still bound
by certain academic conventions and rules, which must be observed. It is, therefore,
important that the researcher should have knowledge of these conventions and rules,
as required by academia at large, and as stipulated by the university. This paper is a
reference and guide to these conventions and rules, intended to help researchers in
ensuring that they conform to formats which fulfill the requirements of the university.
The guideline contains both general and specific guidelines for the final submission of
the thesis and presentation including clear instructions on matters relating to format,
length, footnotes, tables and appendices, bibliography, citation, referencing styles, the
words required for abstract, plagiarism, and publication prior to submission, chapters,
and permissible languages.

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Publication

3. For details about publication paragraph 7 of Guidelines for First Seminar under
heading Publication is referred.

Plagiarism

4. Plagiarism is Completely Forbidden. For other details about plagiarism

paragraph 8 of Guidelines for First Seminar under the heading Plagiarism is referred.

Pre-defense Seminar

5. Pre-defense seminar is the final presentation of the thesis for the PhD program.
Here the researcher will present in detail covering all the chapters. This is a
requirement for submitting final thesis and facing defense of the thesis on successful
completions of the presentation. In this seminar, researcher, in consultation with panel
members and supervisor, should update the various comments of previous seminars
along with results/findings of the study.

6. The presentation of the thesis is maximum 40-45 minutes. There will be at least
10 minutes scheduled for questions and answers, and 20 minutes for feedback and
discussion by research experts. Researcher should submit the thesis (Nine hard bound
copies) along with a short Biography of him/her One Month prior to the schedule
presentation date to the CHSR. The thesis should be limited to 80,000 to 100,000
words. This word limitations are basically applicable for social science-related
research only. However, this word limit may vary depending on the type of research
with sound academic logic.

Thesis Paper

7. The culmination of a postgraduate researcher’s journey is seen on completion of

his/her research work in the form of a thesis. As a document, the thesis is evidence of
the researcher’s knowledge and competence in his/her area of specialization. The
thesis is the mark of the researcher’s achievement as a postgraduate researcher and
marks the researcher’s entry into the world of academia.

8. A thesis may vary in length. A thesis shall be presented in several chapters,

starting with Introduction, and ending with Conclusions. Each of the chapter will have
a precise title reflecting the contents of the chapter. A chapter can be subdivided into
sections, sub-sections, and sub-sub-section to present the content discretely and with
due emphasis.

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9. In this guideline seven chapters of a thesis are suggested (including

introduction and conclusion). However, in case of a thesis containing more than seven
chapters, the researcher is independent of naming these chapters depending on the
topic of research and the research outcome he/she intends to bring out. But chapters of
the thesis will usually not be more than Nine (09). The researcher should keep a blank
page with a write up Chapter One/Two etc., before starting a new chapter. The
contents of the major chapters are as follows:

Contents of Pre-defense/ final thesis Paper

10. The contents of Pre-defense Paper and final thesis may be as under:

(a) Title
(b) Abstract and Keywords
(c) Introduction
(d) Literature Review (Sometimes within the introduction)
(e) Theoretical and/or Conceptual Framework (This may not be a separate chapter
always. Theoretical framework may be within introduction and Conceptual
framework within methodology).
(f) Methodology or Materials/Sources and Methods
(g) Themed Topic Chapters (May be more than one chapter as the thesis demands)
(h) Data Analysis and Interpretation
(i) Discussions and Findings
(j) Results (May not be in all thesis Papers).
(k) Concluding Remarks and Recommendations
(l) Researcher’s Publications
(m) Bibliography
(n) Appendices: Proposed Survey Questionnaire, Interview / FGD / KII Questions,
Observations Check List etc (As applicable).
(o) Researcher’s Short Biography: Researcher’s Photo, Academic and Professional
Background, Publications, Major Achievements, and Research Project Work
(If applicable).

However, these chapters may be rearranged or renamed if the research demands such.

Title

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11. Title should be as per paragraph 10 of Guidelines for proposal paper under
heading Title. For other details about title paragraphs 10 and 11 of Guidelines for
proposal paper under heading Title is referred. The title of the thesis should not exceed
10 to 15 words.

Abstract and Keywords

12. An abstract is a summary of the Thesis. To capture the essence of the work, the
abstract should summarize all the elements of the paper, except the bibliography. It
starts by describing the background of the study. It then briefly presents the research
statement and proposed research objectives and approach. It concludes with the results
and recommendation and/or future study. The number of words should not exceed
250.

13. Keywords should be as per paragraph 13 of Guidelines for proposal paper

under heading Abstract and Keywords. Keywords should be in Italic font.

Introduction

14. The title of Chapter One shall be “Introduction”. In introduction researcher

should cover the following aspects:

-Background of the Study

-Research Gap
-Problem Statement
-Rationale of the Study
-Research Objectives, Questions and /or Hypothesis
-Significance of the Study
-Scope of the Research
-Definitions of Terms Used in Thesis
-Chapterization of the Thesis

15. Definitions of Terms: It means the way researcher defines a particular term in
his/her research. It is important that the Introduction is well written. Without a clearly
defined purpose and strong theoretical rounding, the thesis or dissertation is
fundamentally flawed from the outset. The final section of the Introduction should
provide a brief overview of each of the main chapters that the reader will encounter.
For other details about the parts mentioned above, paragraphs 14-17 and 20-21 of the
study of Guidelines for proposal paper are referred.

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16. Outline of the thesis refers the organizations of the chapters (after Introduction)
of the thesis.

Literature Review

17. Literature review should be as per paragraphs 20 and 21 of Guidelines for

proposal paper under heading Literature Review. However, researcher should do the
extensive literature review along with the recommended literatures by
supervisor/panel experts. The review may further include:

-At least recent 25 studies conducted on the topic

-Critical Review
-Theoretical framework
-Empirical review or systematic review
- Research gaps
-Conceptual framework and
-Hypothesis

Theoretical and/or Conceptual Framework

18. Conceptual/Theoretical Framework should be as per paragraph 22 of Guidelines

for Proposal paper under heading Conceptual/Theoretical Framework. This may not be
a separate chapter always. Theoretical framework may be within introduction and
Conceptual framework within methodology.

Research Methodology/ Materials and Methods

19. Research Method should be as per paragraph 23 of Guidelines for proposal

paper under heading Research Methodology/Materials and Method. However,
researcher should explain Research Method as detail as possible in Pre-defense
Seminar along with the modification recommended by supervisor/panel experts. All
the parts should be clear and well explained.

Themed Topic Chapters

20. There may be one or more themed topic chapters in the final thesis. These will be
chapters related with research, which the research necessitates highlighting.

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Data Analysis and Interpretation

21. Analysis of data, also known as data analytics, is a process of inspecting,

cleansing, transforming, and modeling data with the goal of discovering useful
information, suggesting conclusions, and supporting decision-making. For all the
tables and figures, a separate caption must be mentioned. For the table/s, caption and
number should be written top of the table. And for figures the caption and number
must be written bottom of the figure/s. This procedure (caption and numbering) is not
only applicable for the data analysis section; however, researcher should follow the
same instruction in all the places where table and figures are available in the paper.
This chapter may include:

-Introduction

-Survey: Demographic profile, general background, inferential analysis

(hypothesis testing)

-Interview or focus group discussion: demographic profile, thematic analysis, -

summary

Discussions and Findings/Results

22. The purpose of this chapter is not just to reiterate the findings or results but
discuss the observations in relation to the theoretical body of knowledge on the topic.
This chapter should also address the implication of the findings. Interpret results in
terms of the background laid out in the introduction. The results are actual statements
of observations, including statistics, tables, and graphs. Mention negative results as
well as positive. Break up results into logical segments by using subheadings. Key
results should be stated in clear sentences. Do not repeat in the text all the values given
in tables. Do not present the same data as graph as well as table. Use one of the
appropriate styles of presentation. This chapter may include:

-Introduction
-Finding of secondary research
-Finding of primary research
-Discussion

Results

23. The result of the research needs to be explained here. The results related to all
the objectives and hypotheses are to be discussed one by one. If some objective is not
achieved, that also needs to be explained in line with the research in this chapter.

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Conclusions and Recommendations

24. Conclusion of the study will start with a few sentences that summarize the most
important results and conclude by giving the strongest and most important statement
that highlights the outcomes of the study. The conclusion should provide answers or
solutions to the questions or problems raised in the introduction. The argument of the
thesis should be summarized if appropriate. The recommendation and future research
direction should also be mentioned elaborately. This section should include the
limitation of the study.

Bibliography

25. Previously researchers were advised to prepare the Reference list. Therefore, all
publications only cited in the Research Proposal and Research Advancement papers
were mentioned as the References list. However, in this stage (Pre-defense),
researchers are advised to prepare the Bibliography instead of References. So,
researchers are to include details of all the resources he/she used to produce the
assignment, including those he/she did not quote or paraphrase.

26. The format of Bibliography should be same as References. For details refer
paragraphs 29 to 49 of under heading References in the Guidelines for Proposal paper
under heading References.

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Sample cover page

Title of Thesis
(Capital, Bold, and Inverted Pyramid Form)

A Thesis Submitted to the Centre for Higher Studies and Research,

Bangladesh University of Professionals for Pre-defense for the Degree of
Doctor of Philosophy

By
Researcher’s Name
PhD Researcher
Roll No. -
Registration No. -
Session:

Under Supervision of [

Supervisor’s Name, PhD

Professor/Associate Professor
Name of Department
Name of Faculty
Name of University/Institution

Day-Month-Year

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Sample cover page for Final Thesis

Title of Thesis
(Capital, Bold, and Inverted Pyramid Form)

A Thesis Submitted to the Centre for Higher Studies and Research, Bangladesh
University of Professionals for Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the
Degree of Doctor of Philosophy

By
Researcher’s Name
PhD Researcher
Roll No. -
Registration No. -
Session:

Under Supervision of
[[
[

Supervisor’s Name, PhD

Professor/Associate Professor
Name of Department
Name of Faculty
Name of University/Institution

Day-Month-Year

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Title Fly for Final Thesis Submission

Title fly displays thesis title concerned faculty including university, doctoral candidate’s name, name of supervisor and
date.

Title of Thesis
(capital, bold, and inverted Pyramid form)

A Thesis Submitted to the Centre for Higher Studies and Research, Bangladesh University of Professionals for
Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy

By
xxx

Under Supervision of
xxx, PhD
xxx

Day-Month-Year

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Dedication

The author may dedicate his/her thesis in this page.

DEDICATION

To my xxx

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Acknowledgments

Here the author recognizes the help rendered by supervisors, technical staff, family and anyone else who offered support
or advice.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

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Declaration by Researcher

Here the author declares that the material has not been used for other awards from other institutions and all sources are
acknowledged.

DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the research work entitled “xxx” has been carried out under the Centre for Higher Studies and
Research, Bangladesh University of Professionals for fulfillment of requirement for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy.
I have composed this thesis based on original research findings from xxx acquired by me along with references from
published literature. This has not been submitted in part or full for to other institution to any other degree. I also certify
that there is no plagiarized content in this thesis.

DD/Month/Year
Name: xxx
PhD Researcher
Roll No.: xxx
Registration No.: xxx
Session: xxx
Centre for Higher Studies and Research
Bangladesh University of Professionals

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Declaration by Supervisor

Here the supervisor declares that the researcher worked under his/her supervision. Moreover, supervisor also declares
that the material has not been used for other awards from other institutions and all sources are acknowledged.

CERTIFICATE OF THE SUPERVISOR

This is to certify that Ms./Mr. xxx carried out his/her PhD study under my guidelines and supervision, and hence
prepared the thesis entitled xxx. So far as I am aware, the researcher duly acknowledged the other researchers’ materials
and sources used in this work. Further, the thesis was not submitted to any other universities or institutions for any other
degree or diplomas.

It is thus recommended that the thesis be submitted to Centre for Higher Studies and Research, Bangladesh
University of Professionals, for fulfillment of requirements for the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy. I also
certify that there is no plagiarized content in this thesis.

DD/Month/Year
Supervisor’s Name, PhD
Professor/Associate Professor
Name of Department:
Name of Faculty:
Name of University/Institution

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Abstract

9. An abstract is a summary of the Thesis. To capture the essence of the work, the abstract should summarize all the
elements of the paper, except the references. It starts by describing the background of the study. It then presents briefly
the research statement and proposed research objectives and approach. It concludes with the results and recommendation
and/or future study. The number of words should not exceed 250.

Keywords:Write 5 -6 keywords from the thesis. Keywords should be Italic.

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Table of Contents

It must be noted that all the chapters should have a separate title. Here all the major divisions and chapter titles should be
listed including page numbers. Chapter will start with an introduction/preliminary and end with conclusions. The body of
each chapter will be divided by section and sub-section. A thesis will cover Seven to Nine Chapters. Sample Table of
Contents is shown below:

TABLES OF CONTENTS

Chapter One: Introduction 1-15

1.1 Preliminaries 01
1.2 Background Study 02
1.2.1 Xxxxxxxxxx 02
1.2.2 Xxxxxxxxxx 03
1.2.3 xxxxxxxxxx 03
1.3 Statement of the Problem
1.4 Rationale of the Study
1.5 Research Objectives 07
1.5.1 Broad Objectives 07
1.5.2 Specific Objectives 06
1.6 Research Questions and/hypothesis

10
1.7 Definitions of Terms Used in Thesis 11
1.8 Outline of the Thesis 13
1.9 Conclusion 15

Chapter Two: Literature Review 16-25

1.1 Introduction 16
1.2 xxx 18
1.2.1 xxx 19
1.2.2 xxx 20
1.3 xxx 21
1.3.1 xxx 22
1.3.2 xxx
1.4 Research Gap and Conclusion

Chapter Nine: Conclusion and Recommendation , limitation of the study

26-40

1.1 Introduction 30
1.2 xxx 32
1.2.1 xxx 33
1.2.2 xxx 35
1.3 xxx 36
1.3.1 xxx 37
1.3.2 xxx 38
1.4 Conclusion 40

Note: Before proceeding to a new chapter a page will be blank with a write up CHAPTER xxx. A
sample is given in page 23.

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List of Tables

A sample of the List of Tables page is shown below:

LIST OF TABLES

SL. Content Page No.

1. Table 1:
2. Table 2:

List of Figures

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A sample of List of Figures page is shown below:

LIST OF FIGURES

SL. Content Page No.

1. Figure 1:
2. Figure 2:

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List of Charts

A sample of List of Charts page is shown below:

LIST OF CHARTS

SL. Content Page No.

1. Chart 1:
2. Chart 2:

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List of Acronyms and Abbreviations

A sample of List of Acronyms and Abbreviation page is shown below:

LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Acronyms/Abbreviation Expressions
BUP Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP)
ADB Asian Development Bank

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