This is a term I keep finding on websites I've been looking at for doctoral programs. They keep saying "No ABD" or an "ABD situation"....forgive my ignorance here.
Holly, ABD- All But Dissertation. As I understand it the term refers to doctoral candidates who have completed all requirements except for the dissertation.
Frequently, you'll see job postings for college/university faculty where ABD status is acceptable, as long as the degree is completed in a certain time frame (usually a year). Bruce
ABD really means "All But Dead." This was my state after working full-time on a PhD for 6 years (1982-1988).
Except, of course, that one is not. "ABD" refers to being done with one's coursework, comps, and has submitted an accepted dissertation proposal. But this is where graduate students often trip up. The dissertation is unlike any other academic experience--especially for those who completed coursework-only master's programs. I truly believe they underestimate the difficulty and scope of the undertaking. That might explain why some employers don't want ABD's; they have no assurances regarding degree completion. Some never do.