The Dissertation as Assessment and More

This chapter concludes the discussion of typical coursework structure of doctoral programs in education. The dissertation is the culminating experience of both the Ph.D. and the Ed.D. in education. It is presented here because it falls within the coursework structure of doctoral programs. The last credit hours of the doctoral program are dissertation hours. Chapter 7 highlights the many ways the dissertation can be viewed. It is the final learning opportunity, the largest assessment, a form of apprenticeship, a professional discourse opportunity, and a rite of passage. The chapter finishes with a brief description of some alternative forms that some innovative programs offer.