Dissertation committee
A dissertation committee is a committee assigned to evaluate a graduate student’s paper (particularly students vying for a doctorate). The student chooses the members of the committee, usually following the suggestion of his or her advisor; this is done after receiving the qualification for a Ph.D candidacy. The student earns this qualification by taking up the required classes or by passing a qualifying exam.
In the case of a research-oriented doctorate, the dissertation committee goes beyond the task of evaluation. They contribute to the successful completion of the thesis. Their support runs the gamut of providing constant check-ups on the writing development, giving hand on improvements and even alterations. They are also present at the defence.
The committee plays a vital role during the dissertation defence or the final stage of a dissertation. In most universities, the oral report is accessible to the public who are welcome to ask questions. The public is later asked to withdraw so the committee can further question the candidate in a closed session. The members of the committee and the advisor will sign the dissertation if the defence is successful. Otherwise, it gives out requirements for final alterations before the dissertation is allowed submission to the university.
The committee consists of two to five members. They are usually doctors in their respective fields. In most universities, especially for basic scientific research-based programs, the members must be affiliated with the institution. The participating professors should also be from a related field. One member coming from a different department is permitted though.
Although it seldom meets, absence of the doctoral candidate has serious consequences. They are usually put on probation unless a written consent by its members returns them to a good standing. The members meet to check on the progress of the doctoral candidate’s thesis. They conduct meticulous review on the proposal plan, strategies used for experiments and what has been accomplished so far; the skills of the candidate and the effort he or she puts on the paper, and the plans set for the future are also evaluated. The results are then summarized by the chair for the committee’s careful review.
Caution should be exercised in selecting dissertation committee members. The fact that a student can choose the members is a privilege. This should be put into good use. Students should also choose its members who are not only experts but are also willing to extend their help. They should choose those who are approachable and are likely to be supportive during the entire undertaking. Choosing a member for the wrong reasons may pose difficulties later on. Just a reminder, before worrying about the committee: make sure that a strong thesis question is in place. This should help in narrowing the choice for the members. Other minor details, like whether you will be making an APA dissertation (it follows the APA writing style guidelines) or not, should be addressed.
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