6.2 The Dissertation Committee
Once a dissertation topic is submitted and approved by the PhD Committee, doctoral students are assigned a dissertation supervisor, first reader, and second reader.
Appointments to the student's Dissertation Committee are made based upon several criteria, including the faculty member's area of expertise, the faculty member's dissertation load, the research interests of the faculty member, and the desires of the student. Students will be surveyed for their preferences in the configuration of their Dissertation Committee. While student preferences are honored whenever possible, other criteria must take priority. The final decision regarding appointment of the Committee is made by the Program Director in consultation with the faculty members and the student.
It is inappropriate for doctoral students to approach any faculty member and ask him or her to serve on their Dissertation Committee.