Dissertation Timeline

The initial step in the process of writing a dissertation or thesis is choosing a research topic and creating a committee of dedicated faculty to serve as the advisors of your research project. Generally, there is one research project advisor or committee chair. The committee chair is the appointed leader who will make overarching decisions on your project. The committee chair works closely with you, the student, to make sure your project is completed to the highest standards.  In most cases, the committee chair will set up meeting dates and times with other committee members, if required, as well as schedule any qualifying exams, candidacy exams, presentations of work, and the final defense. The committee chair is also the lead signature on form required.

Forms Required

• Request to Serve on a Committee: This form must be completed by the committee chair/project advisor.
• Request to Form a Committee: This form must be completed by the remaining committee members. This form is initiated by the committee chair/project advisor.