FAQs

"Does my project need IRB approval?"

Submit application if you are (a) collecting data from human participants and if (b) you plan to use the data for public dissemination (e.g. publication or presentation at a conference or public forum).

"What documents do I need to submit to the IRB?"

Application packet submissions include the IRB Research Application as well as a consent/recruitment form, data collection forms (e.g. questionnaire, survey, stimulus materials), and/or debriefing form. Templates for the consent and debriefing forms are located on the Documents page.

"How long will it take to get approved once I submit my IRB proposal?"

The IRB committee meets once per month during the fall and spring semesters (see calendar for dates) to review submitted application packets. To expedite the approval process, submit your application packet to the committee one week before the scheduled meeting date (check the Calendar). After the meeting, you can expect a response in one to three weeks. If your study is not approved, you will get an email stating the concerns. You may re-submit for the next scheduled meeting.

"How long will it take to get approved?"

It depends on the following: (1) the level of risk involved in the study and (2) whether proper documentation is submitted. An exempt study (no risks) with adequate documentation could be approved within a week of submission. Studies that require more review typically involve some level of risk to the participant and may take longer, especially if the risk and steps to manage the risk are not documented adequately. There are three levels of risk as detailed below:

A. Exempt: Studies that include minimal to no risk to participants are the quickest to get approved, typically about a week after they are submitted if all documentation is adequate.  Studies that are exempt include: 

         a. No distress or harm to participants (example: anonymous survey)

         b. Participants remain anonymous

         c. Adults aged 18 or older who are capable of giving consent to participate.

         d. No incentives for participation are given

         e. Does not involve tape recording, videotaping

         f.  Does not involve animals

         g. No deception

         Required Documentation: IRB application, copy of survey questions or materials,  recruitment statement (no signature required), and debriefing (optional for exempt studies)

B. Expedited (partial committee review): These studies may take a bit more time to review because they include more than minimal risk to participants. Average time is about 2 weeks after they are submitted if all documentation is adequate. 

Expedited studies might include:

a. Analysis of voice recordings (could be identifiable)

b. Moderate exercise (physical risk)

c. Group behavior

d. Must include adults aged 18 and older , capable of consent for participation.

Required Documentation: IRB application, copy of materials, informed consent form (signature required), and debriefing form (required)

C. Full committee review: Studies that involve greatest risk to participant rights need to be reviewed by the whole committee. This process may take 2-3 weeks depending on the adequacy of the documentation as well as addressing questions from the committee. 

Full review studies might include: 

a. Blood samples, bodily fluid

b. Deception (including omission and commission) 

c. Sensitive information (e.g. asking participants personal information regarding history of diseases, or sexual practices would be considered sensitive information)

d. Non-anonymity (confidential, but identifiable data)

e. Funding from outside source

f. Special vulnerable populations (e.g., children, animals)

Required Documentation: IRB application, copy of materials, informed consent form (signature required from participant or parent/guardian if case of vulnerable population), debriefing form (required)