The prospectus is a student's proposal or plan for dissertation research and writing. Please file a copy of your prospectus with the Women's Studies Graduate Office. In Psychology, students write a dissertation prospectus that is approved by their dissertation committee.
A dissertation prospectus should contain:
- an abstract of the specific aims of the investigation
- the background and significance of the proposed research, including the conceptual framework
- the research design and methods of procedure, including measurement techniques to be used, if applicable
- analysis strategies to be followed
- a tentative timetable. (Faculty in each Area and Joint Program will determine the length and detail of these sections)
In the Personality and Social Contexts area of Psychology, there is no set deadline for defense of the prospectus although students are strongly encouraged to have their prospectus successfully defended by the end of their fourth year in the program. The prospectus is a written document approved by the dissertation committee.
