The EPQ is an opportunity to extend and develop subject knowledge and personal interests. Most students complete a dissertation based upon a research question, which, for the most part, is developed independently and chosen to reflect individual interests. Students have explored a range of topics: cryptography, genetics, artificial intelligence, history of conflict in the Middle East, alternative medicine, cardiovascular diseases, the impact of social media, the Russian Revolution, the Coen brothers, performance enhancing drugs in sport and many other diverse and interesting subjects. For those who are more creative or practically minded there is an option of doing an artefact based project or a field study/ investigation style project.