According to the Council of Graduate Schools, a doctoral dissertation is a formal document that makes an original contribution to theory or practice in a specific area.
The dissertation document and dissertation process varies from department to department, campus to campus but there are some general commonalities between all universities and programs.
Based on the research we conduct at the Doctoral Support Center on the predictors of graduate school completion which are supported by the literature, the important indicators for success are:
- a constructive relationship with a dissertation advisor;
- positive departmental climate, orientation, and advising;
- coursework that encourages inquiry;
- student participation and peer support.
Putting your proposal and dissertation together are continuous processes.
- It is an academic discourse with your chair
- You can identify a topic and begin conceptualizing your topic during coursework
- Unlike turning in a paper for class, you have to approach the dissertation in pieces and continuously revisit a section based on the stage of the process
- Seek support through the DSC, peers, faculty chair, colleagues, and friends.
- The best dissertation is a completed written one.
Helpful tips:
- Life happens, be honest with yourself and how you will manage your time and responsibilities with family, career, your physical, emotional, and mental well being.
- Develop and maintain a constructive relationship with your dissertation chair.
- Seek support from multiple sources.
- Create a vision, timeline, workplan and stick to it. If for some reason life happens re-work your plan.