Students’ Perceptions of Dissertation Preparedness: A Mixed Methods Case Study

Doctoral student attrition in onsite and online universities in the United States ranges from 40-80%. Student survey data have been collected but virtually no analyses have been conducted on students’ perceptions of their dissertation experience, defined as interactions with professors and other school supports. The purpose of this mixed methods case study is to identify factors contributing to doctoral student retention. Existing literature suggests the quality of student-faculty relationships may be the strongest predictor of student learning success. In this qualitative research supported by quantitative data, student evaluations of dissertation and research courses are analyzed to better understand how course content and faculty interaction contribute to students\u27 dissertation preparedness in an online University in southwest United States. Study results could identify strategies to improve effectiveness of existing services/interventions and provide more specific direction on strengthening student/faculty relationships to positively influence student persistence, retention, completion, and graduation