After successful completion of Ph.D. qualifying exam Students should determine as soon as possible, if not already done, their primary and secondary fields of specialization in the program. Students should choose a dissertation director that can help them successfully complete a dissertation in the selected area. The dissertation director becomes the student's advisor for the remainder of their program. Students are strongly encouraged to approach potential committee members prepared to discuss the probable topic of the dissertation and schedule for its completion before requesting their participation. Students should continue doing background reading and preparation for dissertation.
Student prepares a formal dissertation proposal.
A suggested outline of the proposal is given below under Format of the Ph.D. dissertation proposal . The specific requirements of the dissertation proposal are determined by the dissertation director, so students must consult with their director as often as necessary to understand what is expected. Student submits full draft of proposal to dissertation director and revises as suggested. Director must approve proposal draft before student distributes it to other committee members. After successful completion of coursework in the Ph.D. Program Student and director decide upon time frame within which the entire Comprehensive Exam is to be completed.