600 EPQ Ideas & Examples | The Ultimate List

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) presents a unique opportunity for students studying in sixth form or college. Not only can you earn extra UCAS points to get into university, but you can also develop strong research and writing skills. The first step is to come up with a great project idea, which is easier said than done. Fortunately, the choice is yours–you can complete your project on whatever topic you want. On the other hand, with so many possibilities and existing Extended Project Qualification examples, it can be tricky to narrow it down and find a niche.

Want to better understand EPQ? Read our guide: What is an EPQ?

This article will give you 600 EPQ topic ideas on a range of subjects to help you choose a good question and, more importantly, get an A*.

How to Choose a Good EPQ Idea

Getting a good grade in the EPQ relies on several factors, including meticulous planning, solid time management, and strong essay writing skills.

Your idea is important, too. Here are some tips for choosing an idea:

• Pick your passion: Choose a topic you’re genuinely passionate about to maintain motivation.
• Be specific: You only have 5000-6000 words for your dissertation. This might sound like a lot, but it can be difficult to cram all your ideas into this space. Being specific will help.
• Push boundaries: Markers like to see topics they haven’t encountered before. If your topic is more popular, try to look at it from a unique angle.

Below are 600 EPQ ideas (including artefact EPQ ideas) organised by subject (in alphabetical order). Some of these ideas are much more vague than you should be for your EPQ; it’s important to put your own spin on these ideas and find an interesting angle. If you’re struggling, your supervisor can help you narrow down a topic.

Did you know? Our Online Research Programme offers the chance to complete a university-level research paper in a topic of your choosing, with expert guidance from an academic studying at a university like Oxford, Cambrige, or the Ivy League. It’s perfect for students working on their EPQ.

If you want to build your confidence before starting your project, consider joining an online summer school. These programmes allow students to explore subjects in greater depth, strengthen research and writing skills, and gain valuable academic experience that can inspire and support their EPQ journey.

25 EPQ Ideas for Anthropology

1. How does cultural relativism shape anthropological perspectives on human behaviour?
2. To what extent does language influence cultural identity?
3. In what ways do rituals and ceremonies reflect cultural beliefs and values?
4. How has globalisation impacted indigenous cultures and traditional practices?
5. To what extent can anthropology shed light on the evolution of human social structures?
6. What role does gender play in shaping cultural norms?
7. How do human migration patterns impact cultural exchange and identity?
8. What can the food consumption of a society tell us about its cultural values and social structures?
9. Can anthropology contribute to our understanding of human prehistory?
10. How has technology altered the dynamics of anthropological fieldwork?
11. Can anthropology address issues of cultural appropriation and stereotyping?
12. What impact does climate change have on indigenous knowledge, and vice versa?
13. To what extent can anthropology contribute to conflict resolution?
14. How does the class system in the UK differ from those of other countries?
15. In a post-pandemic world, what role can anthropology play in medicine?
16. Is it important to preserve endangered cultures?
17. What impact does tourism have on local communities?
18. Is it important to respect cultural practices that may harm people?
19. How do kinship systems influence social organisation?
20. How has urbanisation affected the social structure of large human groups?
21. Is it possible to define a singular, homogenous British culture?
22. What can consumption patterns tell us about a particular society?
23. What’s the difference between society and culture?
24. Can language shape the way we view the world?
25. Can online spaces like the Metaverse be considered their own society?

Like these Extended Project Qualification examples in anthropology, aim for a topic that explores a specific cultural practice, belief, or social phenomenon through a well-defined lens.

25 EPQ Ideas for Architecture

1. How can architecture foster community engagement?
2. What role does cultural identity play in shaping architectural design?
3. How does sustainable architecture contribute to environmental conversation?
4. In what ways can architectural design mitigate the impact of natural disasters?
5. How does urban planning influence the mental well-being of city dwellers?
6. Can changing architecture serve as a catalyst for economic development in urban areas?
7. How do historic preservation strategies balance tradition and innovation?
8. What factors should architects consider when designing for aging populations?
9. How can architecture promote a healthier lifestyle?
10. What challenges and opportunities does inclusive design present for architects?
11. How does the style of council housing feed into stereotypes about class?
12. How can architects revitalise abandoned urban spaces?
13. How does architecture influence human behaviour in public spaces?
14. What impact does architectural iconography have on the identity of a place?
15. What lessons can architects learn from pandemic responses in designing for health?
16. Was the Grenfell Tower a complete architectural failure?
17. What can architecture tell us about politics?
18. In what ways does minimalist architecture correspond with contemporary societal values?
19. What is the effect of feminism on architecture?
20. How can architects incorporate biophilic design principles into modern urban environments?
21. To what extent is architectural design a form of art?
22. How can technologies such as VR and AR benefit the architectural industry?
23. Were the houses of the past of higher quality?
24. How does architectural lighting impact the perception of spaces?
25. How can architects design for climate resilience in vulnerable regions?

Which EPQ Topic Should You Choose?

The Extended Project Qualification examples above are just that – examples. Remember, you can choose any topic you like. Since you’ll be spending six months researching and writing an essay about your chosen topic, it needs to be something you’re interested in.

Hopefully, these EPQ ideas have helped you figure out how to form an interesting question. By putting your own personal spin on an interesting idea, you can start down your pathway to getting a great EPQ grade.

Many students find inspiration by attending Ivy League summer schools, such as Oxford summer school or Cambridge summer school, where they can explore subjects in depth, work with leading academics, and experience university-style learning. These opportunities not only expand academic understanding but can also inspire creative and original EPQ ideas.

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Embarking on your EPQ is a significant undertaking. However, with the right guidance and resources, you can achieve an A*. Immerse Education offers guided and immersive teaching to elevate your academic experience and help you achieve more.

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