Why is the dissertation like it is?

Students often feel that there is too much emphasis on the formality of the dissertation. That there are parts that don’t seem to make sense to them, and as a result they don’t give each part attention (a great example, is the abstract). First, it is important to understand that the dissertation will be published, and much of the structure and formality is because of this. At one time, your final dissertation would actually be bound as a book and be in a library (you can still have it bound, if you wish). Of course, now, everything is electronic, but the formatting remains as for a bound book. That is why the left margin is larger than normal (1.5"), to allow for binding.  

Second, there is also an historical aspect to the entire dissertation process; in that, it is a tradition that you will be part of. Dissertations are looked on as proof of the student's ability to add to the empirical literature, thus, you are making a contribution to your profession.  

Third, the PhD is a research degree, and your dissertation is proof of your completion of the process. Your paper will have been peer reviewed by faculty and is considered a professional document. Over the next few posts, I will go through each section and consider why it is included. Do you have an issue or a question that you would like me to discuss in a future post? Would you like to be a guest writer? Send me your ideas! leann.stadtlander@waldenu.edu