Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) involves being aware of and putting into practice the established professional norms and ethical principles of research. Intellectual honesty and responsible conduct is necessary for excellence in research and for maintenance of public trust. More and more, privately and publicly funded research institutions see RCR as an essential component of training.
Michigan Tech has developed several training programs to support graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in their professional development and fulfill obligations to sponsors of our research programs.
All doctoral students and master's students completing thesis or report options must complete basic and advanced RCR training as described below. Students completing a master's degree with the coursework option no longer need to complete advanced RCR training as of summer 2024.
Basic RCR Training Requirements
All graduate students must complete basic responsible conduct of research training in their first semester at Michigan Tech. This includes students seeking a master's degree, doctoral degree, or certificate. If the training is not completed, a registration hold will be placed on the student's account. Students may not register for future semesters, graduate, or enter candidacy if the training is not complete.
To fulfill this requirement, students will complete Orientation to Graduate Studies and Research on Canvas.
Advanced RCR Training Requirements
All doctoral students and master's students completing thesis or report options must complete advanced RCR training in their second or third semester. Students may not graduate or enter candidacy if the training is not complete.
Completing Training
| Degree option | Requirements |
|---|---|
| MS Thesis/Report, PhD | Pre-approved course for advanced RCR training |
| Online |
Program-Specific Training
Graduate programs may require additional training for their students. Graduate program directors for each program have more information.
Students conducting research with human and animal subjects will need to complete additional training prior to beginning their research. Contact the Office of Research Integrity for more information and assistance.
Resources are also available for: