Guidelines for the Dissertation Prospectus

Purpose of the Prospectus

The purpose of the prospectus is to state what you are going to do, why you are going to do it, and how you are going to do it.

Content of the Prospectus

I. Introduction

A. Problem area

B. Research Question(s)

C. Significance

II. Review of Literature (abbreviated)

A. What is known

B. What is unknown

III. Research Design (including rationale(s) for methodological choices)

IV. Reference List

The four major sections (designated with Roman numerals) are required and should be presented in the order above. Within each section, the author has some flexibility with regard to the number and sequence of subsections, as long as the items indicated on the outline are included in some form.

Style and Format

Length:

It has been suggested that 12-18 double-spaced pages is a recommended length, excluding reference list, but the length should be agreed upon by the student and the dissertation director and/or committee

Writing style:

Formal, Academic, Clear, Concise. Avoid the overuse of passive voice or stilted expressions such as , “The researcher will…”

Follow the current APA Style Manual: Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, Washington, D.C.