RESEARCH INFORMATION

 
 

INFORMATION

This FAQ is designed to help nursing students navigate the world of research, whether you're just getting started or looking to take your involvement further. From understanding what student research looks like, to finding opportunities, navigating ethics, and getting published, these answers aim to make research feel more accessible and achievable at every stage of your education.

Interested in learning more about research? Email research@cnsa.ca for more information.

What is “student research” in nursing?

Student research refers to any structured inquiry conducted by nursing students to generate, explore, or apply knowledge. This can include literature reviews, quality improvement projects, community-based research, or participation in faculty-led studies.

Why is research important in nursing?

Research is foundational to evidence-informed practice (EIP). It allows nurses to:

  • Improve patient outcomes

  • Strengthen clinical decision-making

  • Advocate for policy and system change

  • Provide safe, effective, and culturally responsive care

How can I get involved in research as an undergraduate student?

Use your school's faculty website to browse research interests of your professors, when you find interests that align with yours, reach out to faculty and offer support or ask if there is room for student involvement. Reach out to professors or clinical instructors

  • Check your school’s research office or opportunities portal

  • Volunteer as a research assistant

  • Join student-led or CNSA-led research initiatives

  • Network at conferences and academic events

Am I able to present research as a student?

Yes! Many conferences allow nursing students to present their research including CNSA, CNA, CASN and various provincial nursing conferences!

Am I able to publish research as a student?

Yes! Again, many journals welcome and encourage students to submit for publication!

What types of research can nursing students get involved in?

Students can participate in:

  • Literature reviews or scoping reviews

  • Quality improvement (QI) initiatives

  • Community-based participatory research

  • Clinical research assistant roles

  • Faculty-led research projects 

Do I need experience before starting research? 

No. Many students begin with little to no experience. Skills such as critical thinking, time management, and curiosity are more important than prior research experience.  

What are ethics in nursing research?

Ethical research ensures the protection, dignity, and safety of participants. In Canada, research involving humans must follow guidelines such as the Tri-Council Policy Statement: Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans (TCPS 2).

Key principles include: Respect for persons; Concern for welfare and Justice

Do student projects need ethics approval?

It depends:

  • Yes: If your project involves human participants, data collection, or identifiable information

  • No: Many classroom-based assignments (e.g., literature reviews) do not require approval

Always confirm with your instructor or institutional Research Ethics Board (REB).

Where can I find research resources?

  • Academic databases (e.g., CINAHL, PubMed, SCOPUS, ERIC)

  • University libraries

  • CNSA resources and toolkits

  • Faculty mentors

  • Peer mentors

How does the CNSA support student research?

The CNSA supports students through:

  • Conferences and research presentation opportunities

  • Offering individual appointments with our DoR for feedback

  • Providing workshops to help students strengthen their skills

  • Networking with nurse researchers

  • Advocacy for student engagement in research

  • Resources and educational initiatives