Institutional Review Board

The ethical treatment of human subjects is something that we as researchers-faculty and students-should consider.

In support of Bethel's mission to "foster an effective academic program," the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at Bethel University seeks to ensure the respectful and ethical treatment of human participants in research conducted by Bethel students and faculty or by researchers whose participants will include members of the Bethel community.

Primary Functions of the IRB

The primary functions of the IRB are:

1. To review and approve research proposals according to federal guidelines and the ethical principles articulated in the Belmont Report
2. To periodically review existing Bethel policies and practices on the use of humans in research
3. To make recommendations for a systematic review process to the faculty and administration
4. To review and approve faculty, staff, or student research as required by an external organization (e.g., funding agency, hospital, mental health clinic)

Requirements for Researchers

If you're planning on doing research involving the use of human participants, you'll need to complete the IRB checklist and Human Subjects Review Form (doc).

Depending on the level of your research, your study will need to be reviewed by the appropriate committee, department, or individual.

Consult Guidelines and Review Process for detailed information about Levels of Review and Instructions for Review.

Contact one of the IRB Committee Members if you have a question about the level of your research.

The IRB Committee meets the second Tuesday of the month during the fall and spring semesters. If you would like your proposed research study reviewed by the IRB Committee, please submit the required paperwork electronically to the Chair prior to 9 a.m. on the date of the scheduled review.