Why Is the MKU Research Project So Important?
The MKU research project is not just a formality—it is the university’s way of ensuring that every graduate is capable of conducting independent research that contributes to their field of study. The research must:
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Address a practical problem in your specialization
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Demonstrate mastery in your discipline
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Offer value to management or professional practice
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Exhibit research writing and analytical skills
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Reflect academic rigor and real-world integration
This makes the research project a gateway to academia, consultancy, or corporate leadership.
How Long Should the MKU Research Project Take?
Students are expected to complete their research project within six months after coursework. This timeline ensures momentum is maintained and aligns with MKU’s academic calendar. Extensions are only granted under strict postgraduate regulations.
Key Milestones:
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Submit Proposal After Coursework
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Defend Proposal at School Seminar
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Obtain Research Authorization Letter
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Collect Data and Complete Chapters 4 & 5
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Defend Final Project and Submit for Examination
Delays may lead to deregistration or re-submission penalties, so planning is essential.
Step-by-Step MKU Research Project Structure
Let’s explore the full structure of the MKU research project in detail:
1. Preliminary Pages
These pages are vital for setting the tone of your document and include:
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Title Page (uppercase, font size 14, centered)
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Declaration by student and supervisor
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Dedication (25 words max)
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Acknowledgment (150 words max)
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Abstract (max 500 words; one paragraph)
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Table of Contents
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List of Tables and Figures
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List of Abbreviations
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Definition of Key Terms (study-specific)
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2. Chapter One: Introduction
The first chapter lays the foundation. It includes:
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Background of the Study – Define the problem with citations.
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Problem Statement – Clearly state the research gap.
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Objectives – One general objective and several SMART specific objectives.
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Research Questions/Hypotheses – Aligned to each objective.
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Significance of the Study – Who benefits and how?
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Limitations – Should be beyond the researcher’s control.
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Scope – Content, geographical, and time scope.
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Organization of the Study – Chapter breakdown.
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3. Chapter Two: Literature Review
This section builds theoretical and empirical grounding:
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Theoretical Literature – Review major theories.
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Empirical Literature – Global to local studies by objective.
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Critical Review & Research Gap – Identify what’s missing in current research.
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Theoretical Framework – Relevant theories with definitions and justifications.
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Conceptual Framework – Diagrams/models showing variable relationships.
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Summary – Key highlights from reviewed literature.
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4. Chapter Three: Research Methodology
Your methodology must be defensible and well-structured:
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Research Design – Justify design choice (e.g., case study, survey).
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Target Population – Define with authoritative sources.
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Sample Design – Include sample size formula and sampling technique.
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Data Collection Methods – Tools, instruments, and administration approach.
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Reliability and Validity – How the tools were tested and found fit.
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Data Analysis – Techniques per objective (e.g., SPSS, regression).
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Ethical Considerations – Permissions, confidentiality, integrity.
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5. Chapter Four: Findings and Discussions
This section brings your data to life:
All discussions must reflect what is in the data—avoid making unsubstantiated claims.
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6. Chapter Five: Summary, Conclusions, and Recommendations
This final chapter wraps up your research:
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Summary of Findings – General and per objective.
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Conclusions – Answers to research questions.
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Recommendations – Practical and relevant to your topic.
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Suggestions for Further Research – Logical next steps from your findings.
Final Sections:
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References – APA style required.
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Appendices – Authorization letters, questionnaires, budget, and timelines.
Formatting Specifications for MKU Research Project
Formatting is non-negotiable at MKU. Here’s what to remember:
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Font: Times New Roman
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Size: 12 (text), 14 (titles)
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Spacing: Double-spaced
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Margins: 1 inch (top, bottom, right), 1.25 inch (left)
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Binding: Hardbound (as approved by the librarian)
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Pagination: Bottom center of each page
Failing to follow these formatting rules may result in rejection, regardless of research quality.
