Guidelines for the Dissertation Committee Research Proposal Review Meeting

Purpose

1. Demonstrate readiness to undertake independent research
2. Define area of research interest
3. Describe focus of research, related literature, and design of study
4. Gain approval of proposal by doctoral committee

Committee Membership

1. Major professor
2. One other professor from Community College Leadership Program Faculty
3. A professor representing the Graduate School (form outside the School of Education)
4. Two other members who are practicing professionals and meet the requirements for adjunct status in the Graduate School.

Arrangements

1. The candidate should schedule the time and place of the research proposal review meeting in communication with the members of the doctoral committee
2. Plan for 1 hour meeting
3. The candidate is responsible to get a copy of the research proposal to the doctoral committee at least two weeks prior to the review meeting

Suggested Format

1. Call to Order – Major Professor
2. Purpose and Format of Review – Major Professor
3. Introduction of Research Proposal – Candidate (limit to 10 minutes)
4. Questions and Suggested Improvements in Proposal – Doctoral Committee
   • Purpose of study
   • Review of research
   • Design of study
5. Summary of Recommended Changes – Major Professor
6. Approval of Proposal with Recommended Changes – Doctoral Committee
7. Further Communications with Doctoral Committee – Major Professor

Note: The meeting to review the doctoral research proposal is separate from the meeting to conduct the preliminary oral examination. However, these meetings may be held co-terminously.