A major research paper/project/review essay is a milestone component of a master's program that requires independent research. The academic requirements, format, and length of master’s research papers, and/or projects and/or review essays must be consistent with master’s degree-level and program-specific expectations.

In accordance with program-specific requirements and processes, a master’s research paper, project or review essay should be on a topic approved by the graduate program. This normally includes a submission and approval of a proposal, as well as appropriate ethics review and approval. Supervisors for each paper/project/review essay must be selected and approved no later than the end of the second term of master’s study. In accordance with program-specific requirements and processes, evaluation of master’s research papers/projects/review essays may include a second reader and/or oral examination. Master’s research papers/projects/review essays are normally graded on a Pass/Fail basis.