A good dissertation is a done dissertation.
A great dissertation is a published dissertation.
A perfect dissertation is neither.
This site started with my doctoral advising page. My students wanted to understand the doctoral process and have information they could reference as they grew as scholars.
This is arguably the most important decision a doctoral student will make in determining the success and enjoyment of their doctoral process. The relationship between the student and faculty member builds throughout coursework and becomes a mentoring relationship as the comprehensive exam approaches and dissertation topic ideas become a reality.
As students begin their “doctoral candidacy,” the student/faculty will inherently grow since the student begins a dissertation journey for the first time, and the faculty member undertakes a different teaching role to mentor their future colleagues.
Don’t be afraid to contact current and former students to discuss their experience in the doctoral process. They often have the best insight on navigating the doctoral process with Dr. Allen (me) as the major professor.
We never want to be in the position of not making progress, but the reality of life as a doctoral student (e.g., family, friends, kids, work, social impact, income) creates difficulties that must be overcome, or they will compromise the doctoral success of the students. I do have policies on satisfactory progress that are demanding but are rooted in the idea that positive progress is critical to success in the doctoral program and your future career field.
You will not graduate from our doctoral program without completing your dissertation. Think about it early and often. There are a lot of resources to help you make the process enjoyable and successful.
Dr. Jeff M. Allen 