General lurker, first time poster. DCJ/PhD

The Cal U DCJ dissertation is not optional. A friend of mine just defended theirs a few weeks ago. If anything, they seem to be increasing the requirements associated with the dissertation (or whatever they call it within that particular program).

 

I see. Their research portfolio is called a professional dissertation. In the health science program, the portfolio and dissertation are two different things, and you can opt out of the dissertation.

 

I think the Cal U DCJ Dissertation Portfolio thingy has been a moving target since the inception of the program. I guess that is the nature of starting a new program that strays from the standard process. I honestly think that program was trying to draw in applicants by making it seem less intense than other doctorates by, for example, not having a formal dissertation and by making the program quicker. But my understanding is that they still had a major dissertation type project, and a comprehensive exam, and the program was quick but super intense with almost no breaks.

 

I feel it can't hurt to try even though they are selective, you never know what could happen. You are getting your degree in CJ as well, correct?

 

I have a bit, I am thinking about applying there but didn't have the best first impression with their enrollment department but I am trying to remember that it might have just been the person and shouldn't be a reflection of the school (she didn't seem to know much about the program)