This document outlines the sections and content to be included in a dissertation proposal presentation to a committee. The proposal will provide background literature leading to the hypotheses being tested, methods for conducting the proposed work, preliminary supporting data, a timeline, and anticipated results and potential pitfalls. The presentation aims to clearly explain the proposed dissertation research and be prepared to answer detailed questions from the committee.

1. Dissertation
Proposal
Student Name
Date

2. Meeting
Agenda
• Background
• Hypothesis
• Methods
• Preliminary data
• Timeline
• Anticipated results and
pitfalls

3. Background
• Summarize in 2-3 slides (suggested) the
background literature that lead to this
dissertation proposal

4. Hypothesis
• Clearly state the hypothesis being tested. If
there are multiple hypotheses, provide each
one. If there is no hypothesis, provide a
statement of the rationale for conducting the
work.

5. Methods
• Suggested 2-3 slides (include more if needed)
• Provide an overview of how you will conduct
the work.
• You can expect detailed questions about the
methods from your committee.

6. Preliminary
Data
• Present the data which support your proposed
work and hypotheses.
• Include graphs and tables as appropriate.
• This section should be reviewed and approved
by the primary mentor in advance of the
meeting.

7. Timeline
• Provide a detailed timeline for the proposed
work.

8. Anticipated
Results & Pitfalls
• What are the expected results?
• What might go wrong?
• If something goes wrong, how will you deal
with it?

9. DISCUSSION