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All students are required to complete a dissertation to qualify for the Ph.D. degree. The dissertation has two phases: development and defense of the dissertation proposal and execution and defense of dissertation research. The objectives of the dissertation are...?
General Information
General Information
Within the context of the previously stated objectives, the specific topic area of the dissertation should develop out of and foster the intellectual and professional interests of the candidate. In selecting a topic and developing a research proposal plan, the student should be attentive to the following criteria.
Dissertation Criteria
Dissertation Criteria
● The topic must be in an area of significance to the field of social work.
● The dissertation must aim to develop new knowledge, address issues that have not been adequately empirically explored.
● The dissertation must be an independent project conducted by the student in the role of principal investigator. The proposed research must include independent conceptualization, development and execution of a scientific study.
● The dissertation must meet current standards for scientific rigor in its design and execution.
Defense Information
The candidate presents a summary of their dissertation and the committee discusses any relevant concerns or recommendations based on the written document and presentation. The committee Chair leads the hearing. Attendees at the dissertation hearing include the candidate’s dissertation committee. The Director of the Ph.D. Program may also attend. Guests may attend at the approval of the Chair. The SSW Director and College Dean may attend ex officio. The wider SSW community may also be invited to attend the defense.
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