The most critical step of the doctoral thesis is narrowing down a topic to an answerable question.
One does not write a doctoral thesis in a vacuum; nor does one choose a PhD dissertation topic alone. The process requires an organized, systematic approach, input from an adviser, guidance from faculty, years of research, sustained passion and finally committee approval. Choosing an effective PhD topic for your dissertation can be more critical than the actual writing process. (Resource 6)
Instructions
1. Compile a file of topics and course materials that interest you. While the material may not lead you directly to a topic, as a generative resource the file may lead you to other topics that pique your interest. (Resource 6) The file should include past seminar papers you've written, syllabuses from prior courses (graduate or undergraduate), newspaper clippings and journal articles. Claremont Graduate University Writing Center recommends you reflect on any patterns that emerge in terms of what you've studied in the past and what you're passionate about. (Reference 2)
2. Sign up for reading courses early in your doctoral program, preferably in the first and second years. Though departmental requirements vary, doctoral candidates at the University of California, San Diego are strongly encouraged to take 4 to 5 reading courses with a variety of faculty members. Take them in a number of subjects--some that you have an interest; others, you know nothing about. Reading courses are opportunities for you to expand your horizons and to study with faculty who have an expertise in areas you're passionate about. (Reference 3) The benefit of reading courses is that, like "speed dating," you have a chance to evaluate faculty members, their personalities, research and teaching styles and how they may function as a mentor.
3. Choose a topic you feel passionate about, or at least one that generates sustained curiosity. The average dissertation, in terms of coursework, independent research and the final doctoral presentation can consume 4 to 8 years of your life. While there will be periods during the doctoral process when you find it difficult to summon motivation, working on a topic you have a passion for will make easier to refocus.(Resource 6)
4. Pick an adviser and finalize the arrangement. Many doctoral programs require that the adviser/doctoral candidate arrangement be finalized through the university Additionally, many doctoral programs evaluate the seriousness of their applicants by how the student approaches a search for a PhD adviser. (Reference 3) It can make or break a PhD program. The adviser not only guides you in your research; he or she can help you focus your PhD topic and will be a conduit between you and the doctoral committee.
5. Finalize the PhD topic with your adviser. The topic should be narrowed to a specific question, one that's neither too general nor specific. Additionally, the topic should be doable and original. Your adviser may recommend you research previously published PhD theses and studies. (Reference 2)
6. Write the topic proposal according to the format outlined by your doctoral program's guidelines. The Department of Graduate Studies normally has required style guides and makes them available on the university websites. Additionally, you can find past PhD topic submissions through your university's library database system.
7. Submit your PhD topic proposal. Many universities now required electronic submission, but you should store a hard copy in your files and an electronic copy on a thumb drive or external hard drive.
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