(for non-dissertation and non-thesis candidates)
The project and the required oral examination are constructed to test the candidate’s knowledge and competencies as a practitioner in his or her profession.
The candidates will discuss with the Dean their areas of interest. Books, journals and other material will be reviewed. The project will be preceded by a preliminary and final outline. The final outline will be the basis for the written project. For the doctoral candidates the completion of the outline will complete the course work for Reseach and Design I, II. For the master's candidates the completion of the outline will complete the course work for Research and Design I. From this coursework, the written project will be developed. Where appropriate, case studies may be the major content for the examination.
The object of the courses is to enhance the research and design abilities of the candidates. Both primary and secondary research techniques and competencies will be enhanced through the development of the project. The result of this research will be the foundation and the design for the project to be approved by the Dean.
The Doctoral candidate will present to the Dean approximately one hundred fifty pages of double-spaced research which includes bibliography, charts, graphs, appendices or any material relevant to the research. After the research has been reviewed and accepted by the Dean, the research will be the basis for the questions to be asked at the oral examination.
The Master's candidate will present to the Dean approximately sixty double-spaced pages which includes bibliography, charts, graphs, appendices or any material relevant to the research. Master's candidates are not required to have an oral defense.
The candidate will appear before a panel of experts, including the Dean, for the project oral examination lasting one and one half to three hours. The University has determined that a superior approach to the traditional academic format is to have two or three candidates appear together. The result is a noncompetitive atmosphere where examiners and candidates have the opportunity to exchange ideas and information. An environment eliminating the focus upon a sole candidate reduces stress and enables the examiners to better judge the qualifications of those seeking their degree.
On a part-time basis, most candidates are anticipated to complete their degree requirements within eighteen months. The determining criteria are dedication and the candidate’s previous academic and professional portfolio.