Who Needs Review

Determining Whether Your Research Requires Ethics Committee Oversight

At Ebed-Melech University, any research project involving human interaction, private data, or ethically sensitive content must be submitted for internal ethics review before the study can begin. This applies to all students, faculty, and affiliated researchers conducting work under the university’s name or using university resources.

While some projects may qualify as “exempt” or “non-human subjects research,” a formal determination must be made by the Ethics Review Committee. This ensures institutional integrity, participant safety, and that your work can be ethically supported for publication, dissemination, or academic credit.

You Must Submit for Ethics Review If Your Research Involves:

• Human Participants
  Including but not limited to surveys, interviews, focus groups, case studies, observations, or experiments involving living individuals.
• Sensitive or Private Information
  Such as personal testimonies, health-related data, counseling notes, or any data that could be linked back to a specific individual.
• Spiritual or Faith-Based Interventions
  Including trauma recovery frameworks, prayer-based healing, or any guided practice that affects participants’ psychological or spiritual well-being.
• Community Outreach or Global Engagement
  Projects involving churches, nonprofit organizations, or international partners—even if no formal data is collected—must be reviewed for ethical risk.
• Student Research for Credit or Graduation
  Capstones, theses, dissertations, and special projects tied to a degree program must undergo internal ethics review and approval prior to execution.
• Publication or Presentation Intent
  Any research planned for journal publication, conferences, public websites, or institutional reporting must be ethically approved in advance.

Examples of Common EMU Research That Requires Review

What About Faculty or Non-Academic Projects?

Even if your research is not for academic credit, if it uses university affiliation or resources, it still requires review. This includes:

• Faculty publications
• Guest lectures based on original research
• Partnered work through ministry, nonprofit, or fieldwork contexts

Important Notes

• Being exempt from accreditation does not exempt you from research ethics.
  As a religiously exempt institution, Ebed-Melech University has full authority to oversee and approve research conducted under its sponsorship. This responsibility is fulfilled through the Internal Ethics Review Committee.
• You cannot begin research until approval is issued in writing.
  Approval letters are issued by the Chair of the Ethics Review Committee and must be attached to your final project or dissertation materials.

Submission Process

Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your Research for Ethics Review

Once you’ve determined that your project requires ethics approval, the next step is to complete and submit your application to the Internal Ethics Review Committee. This process ensures that your research plan is sound, your participants are protected, and your project can move forward with institutional backing.

The committee is committed to providing timely, supportive, and constructive feedback to help you refine your research design where needed. Most applications receive a response within 7 to 14 business days.

What You Need to Submit

To begin the review process, submit the following documents by email:

• Completed Ethics Review Application Form
  Download EMU_Ethics_Review_Application_Form.docx
• Informed Consent Form(s) tailored for your participants
  Download EMU_Informed_Consent_Template.docx
• Research Tools (attach all instruments you plan to use), such as:
  • Surveys
  • Interview or focus group questions
  • Observation protocols
  • Coaching scripts or worksheets
  • Assessment tools
• Risk Assessment and Data Protection Plan (if applicable), which includes:
  • How data will be stored securely
  • How participant identities will be protected
  • What steps will be taken to minimize physical, emotional, or spiritual risk
• Faculty Advisor or Chair Approval (for student research)
  Include a signed endorsement from your advisor or dissertation chair indicating that your proposal is academically and ethically sound.

Submission Instructions

• Email your complete application to:
  ethicsreview@ebedmelech.ac
• Use the subject line:
  Ethics Review Submission – [Your Full Name]
• In the body of your email, briefly summarize:
  • Your name and program
  • The title of your research project
  • Whether the research is for a class, capstone, dissertation, or other purpose
  • A list of all attached documents

What Happens Next

After submission:

1. Confirmation – You’ll receive an acknowledgment email within 2 business days.
2. Initial Review – The Chair and committee will evaluate your materials based on scope, risk, and clarity.
3. Decision Issued – You will receive one of the following:
   • Approval Letter (if all materials meet the standards)
   • Revision Request (if additional information or safeguards are needed)
   • Deferral (if the proposal requires significant revision or clarification)
4. Resubmission – If revisions are requested, resubmit the updated documents for a final determination.

Tips for a Smooth Review

• Use plain, respectful, and neutral language in all consent and survey documents.
• Be specific about how participant confidentiality will be maintained.
• Clearly define the role of prayer, scripture, or faith-based techniques in your research (if applicable).
• Provide all documents in Word or PDF format. Avoid Google Docs with restricted permissions.
• Include any recruitment materials (flyers, emails, announcements) that you plan to use.

IRB Decision Tools

Determining Whether Your Project Involves Human Subjects Research

Before you submit your application, it is important to confirm whether your study meets the definition of “research with human subjects.” Some projects may not require full ethics review if they involve public data, literature only, or fully de-identified information. However, all determinations must be made by the committee—not the researcher alone.

To assist you, Ebed-Melech University provides two practical decision-making tools adapted from traditional IRB guidelines:

1. A written IRB Decision Matrix
2. A visual IRB Flowchart

These tools help clarify:

• Whether your project involves living individuals
• Whether data is private, identifiable, or sensitive
• Whether you (or your data source) can link information back to individuals
• Whether the study involves interaction or intervention

Tool #1: IRB Decision Matrix

The IRB Decision Matrix walks you through key yes/no questions that determine whether your project qualifies as human subjects research. It is especially helpful for studies using existing data, online content, or community-based sources.

Download IRB Decision Matrix – PDF

Use this tool if you are:

• Analyzing archived or secondary data
• Using publicly available videos, sermons, or social media
• Unsure whether your project involves private information

Tool #2: IRB Flowchart

This easy-to-follow visual guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of when ethics review is needed. The flowchart helps you assess your study’s scope, data type, and subject involvement.

Download IRB Decision Flowchart – PDF

Use this tool if you are:

• Working with others to design a study
• Unsure whether your study involves direct contact with participants
• Planning to submit for review and want to verify the level of risk

Common Scenarios

When in Doubt

If you are unsure, it is better to submit your application or email ethicsreview@ebedmelech.ac for a preliminary determination. Even if your research qualifies as exempt, having a written decision letter on file provides essential documentation and protects your work during audits, publications, or future academic evaluation.

Types of IRB Review

Understanding Levels of Review at Ebed-Melech University

The Ebed-Melech University Institutional Review Board (IRB) conducts ethical oversight of research based on the level of risk posed to participants and the nature of the research activity. Not every project requires a full committee review; some qualify for expedited or exempt pathways, while others may be classified as “not human subjects research.”

This page helps you understand the four primary types of review used by our IRB to evaluate research proposals.

1. Exempt Review

What it is:
Minimal-risk research that fits one of several federal exemption categories, such as the use of anonymous surveys, educational research in classroom settings, or public behavior observations without identifiers.

Typical Examples:

• Anonymous surveys about non-sensitive topics
• Observing people in a public place without recording identifiable features
• Using public records or archival data with no identifiers
• Classroom evaluations for instructional improvement

Key Notes:

• You still must submit an application for exemption.
• You will receive a formal letter confirming exemption.
• The IRB, not the researcher, makes the exemption determination.

2. Expedited Review

What it is:
Research that involves no more than minimal risk to participants, and includes procedures listed in federal categories (e.g., interviews, non-invasive measures, studies with adults on sensitive topics where confidentiality is protected).

Typical Examples:

• Interviews on personal experiences that are non-traumatic
• Use of audio or video recordings with consent
• Studies involving identifiable data that is stored securely
• Surveys involving moderate sensitivity (e.g., faith, burnout, wellness)

Key Notes:

• Reviewed by one or two designated IRB members, not the full board
• Shorter review timeline (usually within 7–10 business days)
• Still requires full documentation, consent forms, and data handling plan

3. Full IRB Review

What it is:
Research involving greater than minimal risk, vulnerable populations, sensitive topics, or any intervention that could impact a participant’s psychological, spiritual, or physical well-being.

Typical Examples:

• Research with minors, elderly, or individuals with cognitive disabilities
• Faith-based trauma recovery models with active intervention
• Longitudinal wellness tracking or counseling-based projects
• Studies conducted in international or cross-cultural contexts

Key Notes:

• Reviewed by the full IRB committee
• May require multiple rounds of revision
• Extended timeline (up to 3 weeks) based on complexity

4. Not Human Subjects Research (NHSR)

What it is:
Projects that do not involve identifiable private information or living individuals. Often includes theoretical papers, literature reviews, program development without implementation, or work based solely on publicly available data.

Typical Examples:

• A theological reflection paper based solely on scripture
• Analysis of publicly available sermons from YouTube
• Use of aggregate statistical reports from government databases
• Book reviews or conceptual frameworks with no data collection

Key Notes:

• You should still submit a brief NHSR determination request
• You will receive written confirmation for your records
• This determination is often required for publication or defense

Summary Comparison

Review Outcomes

What to Expect After You Submit to the Institutional Review Board (IRB)

Once your research application is submitted to the Ebed-Melech University IRB, it will undergo a formal review process to determine whether your project meets ethical, procedural, and theological standards. The review is based on your project’s level of risk, clarity of methodology, adequacy of informed consent, and alignment with our institutional mission.

All determinations are documented in writing and issued to the applicant via email. These outcome letters serve as official documentation for your academic records, publication efforts, or dissertation defense.

Possible IRB Review Outcomes

The IRB may issue one of the following decisions:

1. Approved

What it means:
Your research meets all ethical standards and is authorized to proceed as proposed.

What you’ll receive:

• An official IRB Approval Letter signed by the IRB Chair
• An approval number and file date
• Permission to begin recruitment and data collection

Responsibilities after approval:

• Follow your approved protocol exactly
• Submit any changes (e.g., tools, sample size, scope) as an amendment
• Maintain secure records of consent and data collection

2. Approved with Conditions

What it means:
Your research is approved, but certain minor clarifications or edits must be made before the final documents are filed.

What you’ll receive:

• A conditional approval notice
• A checklist of requested updates (e.g., consent form wording, additional data protections)
• A request to resubmit only the revised components

Next steps:

• Make the requested changes
• Email your updated files to ethicsreview@ebedmelech.ac
• Receive full approval once your conditions are met

3. Revisions Required

What it means:
Your proposal has merit, but key ethical, procedural, or structural issues must be addressed before it can be approved.

What you’ll receive:

• A detailed feedback letter from the IRB
• Specific instructions on how to revise and strengthen your application
• Supportive recommendations to help you meet standards

Next steps:

• Revise your application and supporting materials
• Include a summary of changes with your resubmission
• The IRB will conduct a second-round review and issue a final decision

4. Deferred

What it means:
The IRB cannot approve your research at this time due to significant ethical concerns, unclear methodology, or lack of necessary information.

What you’ll receive:

• A deferral letter outlining the reasons for the hold
• An invitation to meet with the IRB Chair or Committee (if needed)
• Guidelines for how and when to resubmit if you choose to continue

Typical reasons for deferral:

• High-risk methods without adequate protections
• Research involving vulnerable populations without justification
• Lack of advisor endorsement or poorly defined consent process

5. Not Human Subjects Research (NHSR)

What it means:
Your project does not qualify as human subjects research and does not require IRB approval.

What you’ll receive:

• An official NHSR Determination Letter
• A record stating that no further IRB review is needed
• Permission to proceed under the university’s exemption policy

Timeline for Decisions

Note: Timelines begin upon receipt of a complete application. Incomplete submissions may delay review.

Faith-Based and Global Research

Ethics Guidance for Spiritually Integrated and International Studies

Ebed-Melech University embraces research that integrates spiritual care, ministry ethics, and global outreach. As a faith-based institution, many of our students and faculty engage in projects that do not fit traditional clinical or secular academic models—such as prayer-based healing interventions, trauma-informed coaching rooted in biblical principles, or qualitative research on ministry impact.

This section outlines how the Ebed-Melech University IRB evaluates faith-based and global research with both spiritual integrity and academic rigor.

Spiritually Integrated Research

Faith is not only welcome in your research—it is central to our institutional mission. However, spiritually integrated studies still require clear articulation of risks, consent, and participant care.

Examples of spiritually integrated studies:

• A trauma recovery program using the Psalms in counseling sessions
• Coaching protocols that incorporate prayer, fasting, or guided devotion
• Studies exploring the impact of deliverance ministry on emotional health
• Biblical worldview analysis of mental health interventions

IRB considerations for these studies:

• How are spiritual practices introduced and consented to?
• Are participants made aware that participation is voluntary and non-coercive?
• Are emotional or psychological responses addressed with proper referrals or safeguards?
• Is theological content presented respectfully and within the scope of academic inquiry?

Faith is not an exemption from ethics—it is an invitation to deeper care and responsibility.

Ministry and Community Research

Research in ministry contexts (churches, small groups, recovery homes, etc.) must still follow ethical review procedures. Even if the work is part of your vocation or calling, the collection of data, opinions, or experiences from others requires oversight.

Examples:

• Surveying women in a Bible study on forgiveness
• Interviewing pastors about burnout
• Piloting a spiritual development workshop with testimonials
• Testing a coaching curriculum in a discipleship setting

Key concerns:

• Power dynamics between the researcher and participants (especially if they are also congregants, clients, or mentees)
• Clear explanation of the purpose of the research
• Ensuring anonymity and psychological safety

Global and Cross-Cultural Research

Many Ebed-Melech students and faculty conduct research across borders, often in ministry settings with international churches, faith-based NGOs, or healthcare outreach programs. These projects require ethical awareness of cultural context, communication style, and logistical limitations.

Special considerations:

• Will informed consent be understood and honored across language or cultural barriers?
• Are participants protected by local or international human rights standards?
• Does your project partner with institutions that uphold similar values of dignity, privacy, and respect?
• Are your tools and methods appropriate for the setting (e.g., trauma-sensitive, not Western-centric)?

Ethical Foundations for Faith-Based Inquiry

Our IRB affirms the biblical mandate to “do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8) as a guiding ethic for all researchers. This includes:

• Honoring the free will and voice of participants
• Avoiding emotional or spiritual manipulation
• Pursuing truth with humility and transparency
• Providing referrals or pastoral follow-up if discomfort arises during your study

International Oversight Note

If your study will be conducted outside the U.S., the EMU IRB will:

• Review your materials with sensitivity to context
• Request documentation of local approvals (if required)
• Issue approval contingent upon safe implementation and local alignment

Resources & Templates

Downloadable Tools to Support Your IRB Submission

To help you complete the Institutional Review Board (IRB) process with confidence, Ebed-Melech University provides a curated library of editable templates and guidance documents. These resources are tailored for faith-based, community-oriented, and international research contexts and are updated regularly to reflect best practices.

Required Forms

The following forms are required for all IRB submissions and must be completed and submitted in full:

• IRB Application Form
  This is your primary document outlining your research design, participants, instruments, risk level, and ethical considerations.
  Download IRB Application Form (DOCX)
• Informed Consent Form Template
  Required for any project involving direct interaction with participants. This template provides clear language on voluntary participation, confidentiality, and the purpose of your study.
  Download Informed Consent Template (DOCX)

Decision Tools

Use these to determine whether your study qualifies as human subjects research and what level of review is appropriate:

• IRB Decision Matrix – Text-Based Tool
  Helps you assess your project’s use of data, public/private status, and identifiability.
  Download IRB Decision Matrix (PDF)
• IRB Decision Flowchart – Visual Tool
  A step-by-step decision tree to guide you through common IRB determination questions.
  Download IRB Flowchart (PDF)

Formatting & Submission Tips

• All files must be submitted in editable formats (DOCX or PDF).
• Be sure to remove track changes or highlighting before submission.
• Include your name, project title, and page numbers on all documents.
• Label your files clearly (e.g., “ConsentForm_Smith.docx”).

Looking for something not listed here? Email the IRB at ethicsreview@ebedmelech.ac to request a custom template or support document.

Contact the Committee

Institutional Review Board (IRB) Communication and Support

The Ebed-Melech University IRB is committed to supporting researchers at every stage of the review process. Whether you’re submitting your first application, revising based on feedback, or seeking ethical clarity for a spiritually sensitive study, we are here to help.

You are encouraged to reach out with questions, consult on your research design, or request clarification on any IRB matter. We aim to provide not just approvals, but mentorship rooted in wisdom, faith, and academic excellence.

Contact Details

Email: ethicsreview@ebedmelech.ac
Subject Line: “IRB Inquiry – [Your Full Name]”

Chair: Dr. Ian McAndrew
Institutional Review Board Chair
Ebed-Melech University

Office Hours: Virtual consultations available by appointment.
To schedule a meeting, email the IRB office with your availability and project title.

When to Contact the IRB:

• Before submitting your application (for general questions or scope checks)
• After submitting (to check status, provide updates, or respond to feedback)
• When making any changes to your approved study (tools, population, timeline)
• If an unexpected situation arises during data collection (emotional distress, loss of data, participant withdrawal)
• For advice on publication, partner collaborations, or working across borders

Official Disclaimer

Institutional Position on Research Oversight and IRB Authority

Ebed-Melech University operates a formal Institutional Review Board (IRB) to provide ethical oversight of all research conducted under its academic, ministerial, and programmatic authority. The EMU IRB follows standards modeled after U.S. federal ethics guidelines (45 CFR 46), the Belmont Report, and international research ethics frameworks.

However, Ebed-Melech University is not registered with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and does not maintain a Federalwide Assurance (FWA). As such, the EMU IRB is not a federally recognized IRB and is not authorized to review federally funded research or studies involving FDA-regulated interventions.

The EMU IRB exists to serve the ethical needs of:

• Faith-based researchers
• Ministry-based interventions
• Academic projects under EMU’s religious exemption
• Private and community research aligned with spiritual inquiry

All researchers are responsible for determining whether their study requires submission to an external, federally registered IRB. For EMU-led studies that are low-risk, non-funded, and spiritually oriented, the EMU IRB’s written approval is sufficient to satisfy institutional oversight.

Use of the term “IRB” throughout this portal refers to Ebed-Melech University’s internal ethics review process and is not intended to imply federal registration or endorsement.