Chapter 4: Constructing Your Dissertation Team

Throughout the history of graduate study, students engaging in research, and more specifically, writing a dissertation, have placed great emphasis on relations developed with those who mentor their work. During dissertation research, students work closely with faculty who have expertise, experience, and an interest in the doctoral student’s topic. Therefore, one of the most important decisions a student makes is the selection of who will serve on their dissertation committee. The relationships developed with, and the mentoring provided by, members of a dissertation committee can have a life-long impact.

The structure of dissertation committees varies among universities. In some universities these committees consist of four members (typically three inside members who are faculty in the college or discipline, and an outside member who is from a different college or discipline). Other institutions may have five committee members with one serving as a “objective observer” who is added to the committee just before the final oral exam. This person reports back to a dean or academic vice president that the oral examination was conducted appropriately.