Dissertation

Dissertation Writing Support

The purpose of Dissertation Writing Support is to help students in the final semester of their doctoral program focus on writing their dissertation and complete their degree. Because of limited resources, support is provided to a limited number of students on a competitive basis. Academic standing as well as the history of University financial support to the student are among the factors used to evaluate requests.

How to request support

The faculty advisor must forward a request for Dissertation Writing Support to the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies, with the endorsement of the Graduate Program Director. The letter, memo, or message must include at least the following:

• A description of the research the student is conducting and has accomplished to date;
• Details of financial support provided to the student (e.g., assistantship stipend, research supplies);
• Presentations made (at the University and/or conferences) and scholarly articles published as a result of the student’s research work; and
• The anticipated date of completion of the dissertation and defense.

Duration and completion expectations

Dissertation Writing Support is awarded for a maximum duration of one semester. Support during the summer months is prorated. It is expected that the student will successfully complete all degree requirements and any other required steps by the end of the semester (including summer) for which the support is given.

Students who accept Dissertation Writing Support will not be eligible for any further funding or University employment of any type, inclusive of the semester the award is granted and beyond, should the student not complete by the end of that semester (including summer).

Eligibility

Students who are also University employees are not eligible to receive Dissertation Writing Support. Employees of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts may be subject to additional restrictions.

Deadlines and submission

Requests for Dissertation Writing Support, with all required information and endorsements, must be received in the Office of the Associate Provost for Graduate Studies by:

• September 10 for the fall semester,
• February 4 for the spring semester, and
• May 25 for the summer session.

Requests for summer support will not exceed the equivalent of the one-semester rate and will be prorated accordingly.