Do I need IRB review for classroom-based research projects conducted by students?
The University recognizes that some student projects conducted to fulfill course requirements involve activities that might meet the definition of human subjects research in a different context. It is the policy of the University not to require IRB review of classroom research projects designed to teach students research methods. In the circumstance of a classroom assignment that might otherwise constitute human subjects research but which does not require IRB review because it is a classroom assignment, the individual faculty members and departments are responsible for overseeing the activities as defined in the Classroom-Based Research Projects guidance. See https://irb.northwestern.edu/resources-guidance/policies-guidance/classroom-based-research-projects.html for additional guidance.
However, some student human research projects will always require IRB review, including but not limited to Doctoral dissertations, funded research, research conducted through collaborations external to Northwestern, Master’s theses, Honors theses, and other undergraduate research projects funded through URG, Weinberg, Buffet, and others. All of these must be reviewed and approved by the IRB before students may begin their research. If you have any questions about whether student projects need IRB review, contact the IRB Office.