A New Era of Doctoral Education: Beyond the Traditional Dissertation

The landscape of higher education is constantly evolving, and doctoral degree programs are no exception. Traditionally, the highest point of a doctoral journey has been the research-based dissertation. This is a long research project that requires careful study and strong writing skills. Yet, as the world changes, so too do the needs of students and the demands of the workforce. A growing number of institutions, including Southern Nazarene University (SNU), are reimagining this final hurdle, exploring alternative approaches that better align with the needs of 21st-century scholars and practitioners.

In December 2021, the SNU Doctor of Education in Administration and Leadership (DEAL) program proudly conferred its first Ed.D. degrees. These graduates had successfully completed coursework and defended their dissertations. This milestone not only highlighted the program’s commitment to academic excellence but also marked the beginning of a new chapter in doctoral education. Since then, the DEAL program has attracted hundreds of students eager to engage with real-world issues across diverse organizational contexts.

A Diverse Landscape of Research Interests

One of the hallmarks of the DEAL program is its diverse array of research topic interests. This variety has not occurred by chance; the faculty has intentionally recruited and welcomed doctoral students from different professional backgrounds and aspirations. The resulting broad spectrum of dissertation topics has become a point of pride for the SNU doctoral program.

On ProQuest, one can find more than one hundred SNU doctoral dissertations highlighting original research studies of leadership and administration in government, schools, and private industries. These types of dissertations vary significantly in methodological approach and focus. Some are quantitative statistical studies, while others take a qualitative case study approach.

For instance, students have researched the methods of VA-affiliated trauma therapists, assessed leadership development programs in banking, and compared culturally engaging campus environments for Native students. Others have conducted quantitative comparative analyses of meditation programs in schools. This rich tapestry of research reflects the program's commitment to fostering practical, critical, and creative scholarship.

The Call for Change

Despite the success and creativity demonstrated in the dissertation methodology, the DEAL faculty recognized the need to evolve. During the Fall 2023 semester, Dr. Stephoni Case, the program director known for her innovative approach, proposed a bold idea: to explore moving away from the traditional embedded dissertation format in favor of a new doctoral capstone experience. This would provide students with opportunities to conduct impactful research while also publishing and presenting their findings to peers and colleagues.

“Our goal - our intention - is to offer the best opportunity for growth and learning while also offering the opportunity to progress professionally,” explains Dr. Case. “Publishing articles will be more fruitful in the professional exposure of these doctoral students. Every doc student I talk with wants to make an impact in their sphere of influence. Meaningful research in a format that is accessible to a larger audience does just that!”

Dr. Case’s suggestion was a casual yet radical shift, reflective of her forward-thinking leadership style. After all, she was the creative force behind the program's inception and has been instrumental in cultivating its diverse student body. Following her recommendation, the faculty engaged in a semester of intense study and reflection on alternative doctoral capstone experiences.

Learning from the Carnegie Project

Fortunately, the faculty had access to a substantial body of research on the subject, largely generated by The Carnegie Project on the Educational Doctorate. Since its establishment in 2007, this initiative has created a network of some of the nation’s most prestigious universities, encouraging experimentation with alternative doctoral experiences. Dr. Shawn Pendley, a dedicated research professor at SNU, explored this network, which includes representation from educational research leaders like Harvard and Vanderbilt.

“The Carnegie Project on the Educational Doctorate was a visionary program that sought to create a more meaningful doctoral capstone for practical researchers,” explains Dr. Pendley. “Because of their work, programs like ours didn’t need to reinvent the wheel when we began our own deliberations about how to transform our program.”

Many faculty members within EdD programs have long recognized the value of transitioning from the traditional research dissertation process to a more applied research model that directly addresses practical problems. This shift is not just a trend; it reflects a deeper understanding of the needs of both students and the organizations they serve.

Alternative Approaches to the Doctorate

Several alternative dissertation options have emerged from this reimagined doctoral journey. These options may include writing in multiple modalities, presenting various academic artifacts, or devising and reporting on an organizational intervention. Each of these approaches has its unique benefits, allowing students to tailor their experiences to their professional contexts and personal interests.

“Moving from a traditional dissertation to research projects that are publishable in other formats reflects SNU's commitment to the unique needs of each adult learner we serve,” explains Dr. Melissa Lewis, Vice President of Academic Affairs for Southern Nazarene University’s College of Professional and Graduate Studies. “We celebrate their ability to customize both their research topics and also their research products according to their personal and professional goals.”

1. Writing in Multiple Modalities

The traditional dissertation is often a single, extensive document. However, an alternative approach could involve students producing various types of writing that showcase their research in different formats. This might include articles suitable for publication in academic journals, reports aimed at practitioners, and reflective essays on the research process. By diversifying the writing formats, students can better communicate their findings to different audiences, enhancing the impact of their research.

2. Presenting Academic Artifacts

Another innovative approach is the creation and presentation of academic artifacts. Rather than a single dissertation, students might compile a portfolio of artifacts that demonstrate their learning and research outcomes. This could include presentations, case studies, curriculum designs, or strategic plans. Presenting these artifacts in a peer-reviewed setting allows students to engage in meaningful dialogue about their work and its implications for practice.

3. Organizational Interventions

Finally, the concept of devising and reporting on an organizational intervention is particularly compelling. In this approach, students would identify a specific problem within their organization and implement a research-based intervention to address it. This hands-on experience not only enhances their research skills but also provides real-time, tangible benefits to their workplaces. Students can document their processes, outcomes, and reflections, contributing valuable insights to both academic literature and organizational practice.

Advantages of the New Approach

The shift toward these alternative approaches is rooted in a desire to enhance the relevance and applicability of doctoral education. Emphasizing applied research offers several advantages:

• Real-world Relevance: By focusing on practical problems, students can develop skills that are immediately applicable to their professional lives. This relevance enhances their employability and positions them as leaders within their organizations. 
  
  
• Collaboration Opportunities: Engaging with industry partners allows students to build networks and establish relationships that can lead to future job opportunities. These collaborations can also foster a sense of community as students work alongside professionals who share their interests and goals.
  
  
• Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Tackling real-world challenges requires critical thinking and innovative solutions. Students learn to approach problems from multiple angles, honing their ability to analyze situations and devise effective strategies. This skill set is invaluable in any career path.
  
  
• Increased Motivation: When students see the direct impact of their work, they are often more motivated to engage deeply with their research. The knowledge that their findings could lead to improvements in their workplace or community can drive them to put forth their best effort.
  
  
• Interdisciplinary Learning: Applied research often involves collaboration across various fields, encouraging students to draw on diverse perspectives and expertise. This interdisciplinary approach not only enriches their research but also prepares them to work in increasingly complex environments.
  
  
• Contribution to Knowledge: By documenting their experiences and sharing their findings, students contribute to a growing body of knowledge that can inform both academic and practical applications. This dual contribution enhances the value of their work and promotes a culture of continuous improvement.
  
  
• Increased Engagement: Applied research is often more motivating and engaging than traditional dissertation research methodology. Students can work on projects they are passionate about, which fuels their commitment and enthusiasm.
  
  
• Enhanced Collaboration: Many applied research projects involve collaboration with practitioners and stakeholders. This fosters a sense of community and shared purpose, which can lead to richer, more impactful research outcomes.

Ultimately, the shift towards applied research in doctoral education is a promising development that benefits students, their workplaces, and the broader community. By focusing on real-world issues, students not only enhance their own skills and employability but also make meaningful contributions that can lead to positive change.

Looking Ahead

As the DEAL program explores these innovative approaches, it recognizes that the traditional dissertation type remains a valuable option for many students. However, the program’s willingness to embrace change and adapt to the evolving landscape of doctoral education represents a significant step forward. By fostering a more flexible and personalized approach, the DEAL program is preparing its graduates to become effective leaders capable of making a positive impact on society.

Dr. Shawn Pendley emphasizes this vision: “The future of doctoral education lies in a more flexible and personalized approach that empowers students to pursue their unique research interests and develop the skills they need to succeed in the 21st century.”

An Inspiring Model for Higher Education

The DEAL program’s commitment to innovation and its willingness to challenge the status quo serve as an inspiration for other institutions in higher education. A reimagined doctoral experience will cultivate a new generation of scholars and practitioners equipped to tackle the complex challenges facing our world today.

As institutions begin to adopt similar frameworks, we can expect to see an enriched educational landscape that prioritizes real-world impact, collaboration, and student engagement. This shift not only enhances the educational experience for doctoral candidates but also ensures that the research produced is relevant and beneficial to society at large.

The exploration of alternative doctoral capstone experiences at Southern Nazarene University represents a pivotal moment in higher education. It signals a move toward a more integrated and impactful approach to doctoral education, one that acknowledges and responds to the dynamic needs of students and the organizations they aim to serve. The future of doctoral education is bright, and with innovative programs like DEAL leading the way, a new generation of leaders will be prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow.