The student will spend 2 to 3 years conducting thorough research on their dissertation. This dissertation is an independent faculty-supervised research project within the candidate’s field of specialization. The student enhances research skills by formulating and addressing a specific theoretical and/or empirical question, advancing the dissertation, and resulting in work suitable for publication. Formats typically include either a single monograph or a three-essay/manuscriptbased dissertation, subject to program policy. It requires an approved proposal, satisfactory progress reviews, a public oral defense, and final submission of the dissertation according to university rules. Pre-requisite: Pass the comprehensive exam and all the course work