Students are expected to be able to complete a theoretically-grounded dissertation that consists of imaginative and scholarly inquiry carefully carried out. The plan identifies the student s research skills needs and how they will be met by the research and academic requirements. The research component also requires 200 hours of applied research practicum whereby students develop the applied skills necessary to conduct a scholarly doctoral dissertation. A minimum of 100 of the hours must be spent actively involved in research activities under appropriate supervision. Students typically apprentice themselves to experienced psychological researchers and become involved in their ongoing research programs as a way of meeting this requirement.
Students complete a proposal and dissertation as part of their doctoral requirements.
The dissertation is aimed at contributing new knowledge to the literature of psychology and should represent original and significant research. The program encourages imaginative inquiry and recognizes a variety of appropriate methodologies. Dissertation work is supported by the student s faculty advisor, associate dean, and consulting faculty. Regional research sessions assist students in developing research skills and conducting dissertation research. These sessions include tracks designed for research beginners and for students at intermediate and advanced levels.