Dissertation Prospectus

EFND 906A: About the Dissertation Prospectus Ver 1-25 The Dissertation Prospectus serves as the transition between coursework completion and the start of the dissertation process. It allows students to outline a preliminary research study addressing a relevant issue grounded in their concentration studies and relevant theoretical frameworks. Unlike a detailed research proposal, the Prospectus is a concise document that emulates a dissertation proposal (chapters 1-3) and analyzes key issues likely to arise in a dissertation study. The Prospectus should provide a balanced, reflective view of the proposed study’s challenges and opportunities, supported by relevant scholarly literature. It serves as the first formal communication with the dissertation chair, showcasing the student’s preliminary thoughts on a potential area of inquiry. Students must complete the Prospectus according to the assignment guidelines in proper APA-7 format, addressing the following components in order: Need for the Study: Discuss the anticipated benefits, significance, and purpose. Research Problem: The gap in the literature is clearly explained. Review of the Literature: Provide a two-page (minimum) discussion of the research problem and its key elements using scholarly sources as its basis. Proposed Research Questions: A presentation of questions to address the research problem. Theoretical Perspectives: Highlight key issues and concepts informing the study. Research Plan: Describe an appropriate research design and procedures to guide a study. Assumptions: State underlying assumptions guiding the research. Limitations/Delimitations: Identify potential challenges and boundaries. References: Scholarly resources formatted according to APA-7 standards. Completing the Prospectus is the first step in the dissertation process. It provides a foundation for identifying viable research topics and methodologies anchored in the literature and theoretical perspectives. Upon satisfactory completion, the student becomes a Doctoral Candidate, receives an “In Progress” grade, and is enrolled in EFND 906B Dissertation Research. The Dissertation Prospectus demonstrates the student’s ability to: • Identify a viable, researchable issue. • Provide context for the issue. • Highlight the significance of the proposed research. • Establish a theoretical or conceptual framework. • Review relevant literature. • Develop a general research plan for the dissertation. The intended audience for the Prospectus includes program doctoral faculty and dissertation chairs. Successful completion is required to proceed to the dissertation phase and is equivalent to a comprehensive exam in other doctoral program