Methods This section presents the research methodology, along with the grounds for using that methodology from earlier research or commentary. Students will also describe the population (including inclusion and exclusion criteria and rationale for the criteria) and sample size (with rationale), measures, and procedures (including recruitment, informed consent, data collection, measures taken for data security, and, if used, debriefing). A reader should be able to replicate the study and articulate the study’s rationale after reading this section. This section ends with a statement about the assumptions the student is making with their chosen methodology, as well as a statement of reflexivity (if appropriate to the research design) to let the reader know where they are coming from; students should take care to disclose only what they would want known publicly. Results This section should include a good-faith representation of the research results such that any neutral observer looking at the data would agree that this is a fair summary. It typically consists of a description of the sample, means of data analysis, descriptive statistics for measures (if appropriate to the research design), and presentation of the results as is appropriate to the study design. Again, students should not present their own opinions and reactions at this point. If appropriate to their methodology, they might also include a personal reflection. Discussion After presenting the results, students will discuss the findings in relation to the literature they reviewed. This is often the most creative part of the dissertation; students should take time to think about what they have found and what in the findings is new or surprising. Of course, all comments should be grounded in the actual literature and the actual findings, but at the same time, in this section, students’ interpretations will be grounded in their point of view. Students will also apply their findings as they consider clinical and social/policy implications. Students should also discuss the limitations of their study and what further research might address. Finally, students end their project with a brief conclusion. References Include a bibliography of all literature cited to demonstrate coverage of an adequate body of knowledge in the area of study. All literature should be cited according to APA (7th Edition) style. Structure of the Dissertation Proposal The Dissertation Proposal is essentially the first two chapters of the dissertation, as well as the Plan(s) for Data Analysis and References. Students may also be asked to address limitations of their design and unique ethical considerations. It is written in future tense (e.g., “The proposed study will be a qualitative study focused on…”; “The estimated sample size is...”). The Dissertation Proposal should be clear, logical, and written in accordance with APA (7th Edition) style. Proper citations should be used throughout the document. Chairs may refer students to a writing instructor for support in professional writing to establish professional writing at the beginning of the dissertation process.
Formatting of the Dissertation The dissertation proposal and final draft should follow APA (7 th Edition) style and include the
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