Completing the requirements to earn a doctoral degree typically requires writing a major research paper called a dissertation. The doctoral candidate’s dissertation is researched, written and ultimately approved by committee under the guidance of a dissertation advisor. A candidate-advisor relationship usually involves working closely together over a relatively long period of time. Choosing the right dissertation advisor, therefore, is a process of researching available and qualified faculty members who have both interest and expertise in the general dissertation subject; are willing to invest the time required; and who appear to be personally and professionally compatible with the doctoral candidate.
The process of finding the best dissertation advisor begins before a dissertation topic is confirmed because the advisor can help direct the doctoral candidate’s area of interest. Candidates begin this process by reviewing the credentials of faculty members in the university department that ultimately will grant the degree. Narrowing the pool of possible dissertation advisors to those with an acceptable level of expertise and experience in fields related to the general direction of doctoral study to date.
Personal and professional compatibility between the student and the dissertation advisor is important. As a second step, conduct research of other doctoral candidates who have worked or are working with the faculty members on the list narrowed by the first step of the process. Questions asked concerning the potential advisor should be tailored to the particular needs and wants of the doctoral candidate.
In terms of professional compatibility, the candidate should determine what is most important to him or her. For some candidates, time to completion of the dissertation is most important while others value likelihood of post-doctoral employment over speed. In some fields, published research conducted during the dissertation process is important, and such students should ensure the proposed dissertation advisor is willing to share credit. Personal considerations are important as well. Some candidates desire to work closely and frequently with a dissertation advisor, others prefer independence.
As a third step, doctoral candidates should interview each faculty member remaining on the list. At this point, the candidate is looking for an advisor who is willing to take on the job, has the time to devote to it, has the relevant experience to guide toward excellence and with whom a good working relationship appears likely. Things to watch out for at this stage are potential advisors who appear over-committed; who are not working with any students at all; or who display attitudes or habits that could negatively impact a relationship. As a final step, the candidate extends an invitation to the desired dissertation advisor.
