Students are required to submit a dissertation that gives evidence of original, independent research and critical thinking on a topic in the field of instruction for changing populations. The dissertation demonstrates the candidate's proficiency in conducting original, in-depth research; subjecting this research to critical analyses; and presenting this research in a dissertation that makes a substantive contribution to the field. The dissertation is expected to be an intensive, deeply researched, sharply focused, original study that will add to the knowledge in the field rather than to the solution of a problem for a specific, practical application. The dissertation defense is presented before a committee of a minimum of five, including faculty from the Education Department as well as from academic disciplines relevant to the candidate's topic. [ 6 credits ]
NOTE: Prior to undertaking the dissertation, candidates must pass oral and written comprehensive examinations demonstrating knowledge both of the broad conceptual and procedural aspects of instruction for changing populations and in-depth knowledge in the area of specialization in which the candidate proposes to undertake the investigations that will result in the doctoral dissertation.