1. GPS IRB
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Updated

2. The primary goal of the GPS IRB is to protect the rights and welfare of human subjects participating in research activities conducted under the auspices of Pepperdine University. Applications submitted to the GPS IRB generally encompass social, behavioral, and educational research and are usually considered medically non-invasive.
The GPS IRB employs a review process in conformity with the Federal Policy for the Protection of Human Subjects (45 CFR 46) and the Federal-wide Assurance (FWA) enacted between Pepperdine University and the Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) under the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
Purpose of the GPS IRB

3. The GPS IRB supports faculty, staff, and students from the Graduate School of Education and Psychology, the Graziadio School of Business and Management, School of Law, and the School of Public Policy. 
All new IRB applications must be submitted using the new eProtocol IRB system at  Helpful resources are available to assist with applying online and submitting an IRB application at Pepperdine University.
Purpose of the GPS IRB

4. All Research Investigators!
Obtaining IRB approval is a legal and ethical requirement before beginning research activities.
It is essential that you contact the IRB before you start any research activities including recruitment of subjects.
Research activities include:
1) Collecting and Analyzing Data;
2) Analyzing Existing Data;
3) Conducting a Program Review, and
4) Meta-Analysis or Critical Review of the Literature.
All Research Investigators!

5. Step 1: Determine Level of Review
First, you must determine which type of application you will submit: Exempt, Expedite, or Non-Human Subjects (NHS).
The most common applications are Exempt and Expedited.
See the Exempt Expedited Decision Tree (handout 1).
For any NHS research please reach out to the IRB and ask for NHS Review form. Further guidance will be provided to you. Approval time is rather quickly for these type of studies (1-3 days).
The IRB Board will help to route any Expedited protocols that actually require Full Review after your initial submission; or if you consulted with the IRB prior to submission, we will let you know during the submission process.
Step 1: Determine Level of Review

6. APPLICATION 
EXEMPT
EXPEDITED
Potential Risk
No more than minimal 
(see handout 1)
Minimal to Moderate
Submission Process
e-Protocol
Review Process
At least 1 reviewer
At least 2 reviewers
Timeline for Receipt of Initial Review
11-15 business days
15-20 business days
Timeline for Receipt of Revisions and Modifications Review
6-10 business days
11-14 business days

7. Step 2: Complete Human Subjects Training
Training is required for all faculty, staff, and students.
Proof of completion is required to submit your IRB application.
Update training every 3 years.
Go to 
Special human subjects training pathways in CITI
· GSEP Education Students
· Faculty/Staff
· MSOD
· GSEP Psychology Students
· Business/Public Policy/Law Students
Step 2: Complete Human Subjects Training

8. Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with e-Protocol
All new IRB applications must be submitted using the new eProtocol IRB system at 
Please review the relevant User Guide and the e-Protocol FAQ:
1. Faculty and Staff: 
2. Students: 
3. All: e-Protocol FAQs including technical support  
Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with e-Protocol

9. Step 4: Gather the Necessary Materials for Submission
To ensure the submission of a complete application, please review the relevant eProtocol Checklist and the specific guidance for Exempt or Expedited Consent Forms:
1. Faculty and Staff Checklist: 
2. Student Checklist:  
3. Consent Forms Guide for Exempt Applications: Handout
4. Consent Forms Guide for Expedited Applications: Handout 4
5. List of Forms and Templates:  
Step 4: Gather the Necessary Materials for Submission

10. Step 5: Consult IRB (if Necessary)
If after proceeding through steps 1-4, you still have questions about the application process; contact our IRB Manager or IRB Chair for assistance.  
For additional questions regarding e-Protocol, application type, and forms, contact our IRB staff to set up an appointment at
For more advanced questions regarding a complicated Expedited or Full application, contact the GPS IRB Chair, Dr. Judy Ho,
Step 5: Consult IRB (if Necessary)

11. Step 6: Submit Your Application
All applications should be submitted at  The system will save your progress. *Make sure to click “save” when you make any suggested changes in the application!
All applications must be complete prior to being assigned reviewer(s). Any incomplete applications will be returned and requested to be resubmitted with all necessary materials. 
Step 6: Submit Your Application

12. GPS IRB Contact Information
Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education & Psychology 6100 Center Drive, Suite 500 Los Angeles, CA Phone: (310)
IRB Chairperson – Dr. Judy Ho, Ph.D., ABPP,
IRB Manager –
Andrea Quintero, MAP,
IRB GA –
Tristan Meier
IRB GA – Awrad Alostath
Thank you!