IRB Training
Most communication researchers require an up-to-date certificate of training in the ethical and practical issues of doing research involving other humans. Certificates expire after two years and are necessary throughout the process of doing research, including the analysis of results.
If your dissertation employs methods that involve human participants, the deadline for completing your training is before your proposal goes before your committee, usually at the oral stage of the preliminary exams. Information, forms, and access to training are all available through the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research.