Stages of a Dissertation
Topic 2: Overview of the Dissertation Process

The dissertation, like much of the writing you have already done for your program, is formulaic. What we mean is that there is a clear structure; each chapter in the dissertation serves a specific function, and within each chapter are predictable sections that also have specific functions. Knowing what each chapter is supposed to do, and what sections comprise each chapter can make the construction of the dissertation easier. Ultimately, the dissertation is a written record of the study you undertook. Your job is to communicate, using the conventions of social science reporting, what the problem was that you wanted to investigate, how you went about exploring it, and what you learned. The information below is meant to guide you through each of those chapters and sections – demystify them. The video below provides the first overview of the structure of a dissertation. The documents further explain the structure of a dissertation.

Navigating the Dissertation (.pptx)
Structure of a Dissertation (.doc)
Dissertation Self-Assessment (.doc)
Dissertation Template (.docx)

Chapters 1-3 Connections 

While each journey is unique the dissertation consists of three phases. The Proposal Phase consisting of Chapters 1, 2 and 3. IRB/Data Collection and Analysis and then the Dissertation Defense which includes the drafting of Chapters 4 and 5.

The focus for this presentation is the proposal phase the drafting of Chapters 1, 2, and 3. Specifically, this presentation will review consistency within Chapter One and across all three chapters. Establishing focus areas relevant to your study and key word choice are important to maintain a consistent discourse thorough the proposal. Aligning protocols to your research questions and the literature presented is another areas where consistency is important. This presentation highlights key areas regarding consistency and structure while drafting the proposal.

There are a number of handouts designed to facilitate the completion of your proposal, some are listed above for Navigating the Dissertation, which include the Structure of Dissertation, the Dissertation Self-Assessment, and Dissertation Template. The other handouts used for this presentation are the Chapter One, Two and Three Outlines, Proposal RQ and Protocol Grid, and the power point for this presentation.  

Chapters 1-3 Connections (.pptx)
Chapter One Outline (.doc)
Chapter Two Outline (.doc)
Chapter Three Outline (.doc)
Proposal Research Question and Protocol Grid (.doc)