The aim of the study was to identify the key components to formulate a thesis project in industrial engineering to address current challenges from a perspective that responds to the demands of sustainability and global development outlined by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This is achieved through an exhaustive review of the literature and interviews directed at both mentors and students, investigating the main potential elements of improvement in the formulation of thesis proposals, based on the ODS. 5 important sections were taken into account for the thesis project: topic, introduction, justification, literature review and methodology. Each of these had relevant criteria to write the project. In short, the formulation of a thesis project in Industrial Engineering emerges as a multifaceted effort that requires rigorous attention to several components. Adequate groundwork, mentoring and training in research methods are vital elements in addressing these challenges and ensuring superior quality in thesis proposals. This study should not only be considered for industrial engineering, it can be used as a basis for other areas such as civil.