4 Ways to Make the Most of Your Doctoral Journey

Are you looking to advance your education by earning a doctoral degree? At Grand Canyon University, the doctoral journey is truly unique. From day one, you are placed on an accelerated path that will prepare you to succeed in your academic journey and career. Here are four ways to make the most of your doctoral journey at GCU:

Get a Head-Start on Your Dissertation

Unlike many other doctoral programs, at GCU, you will begin the dissertation process at the start of your program. In your first course, you will be introduced to the doctoral dispositions with emphasis on understanding expectations for scholarly work.

Throughout your program, you will progressively build the necessary skills to critically synthesize doctoral research literature, identify a research topic, develop theoretical framework, conduct research and defend your dissertation. Working on your dissertation progressively can allow you to make the most of your doctoral journey, because you will have the chance to create a final product that reflects what you have learned.

Take Advantage of Learner Resources

During your doctoral journey, GCU will provide you with a variety of learner resources to help you reach your goals. You will receive personal guidance and have the opportunity to take advantage of the campus and online support systems needed to excel in your program.

For example, attending residency will provide you with opportunities to meet and collaborate with faculty members, other doctoral learners and the doctoral graduation team. You will also have the chance to attend seminars and gain experience presenting your dissertation and listening to other presentations.

Networking is Key

Networking with those you come in contact with can allow you to make the most of your doctoral journey. As a doctoral learner, you will have the opportunity to connect with faculty who are experts in your field of interest. You will also have the chance to build relationships with your peers, which can greatly benefit you in the future.

At GCU, you will have the opportunity to become part of the Doctoral Community (DC) Network, which is a unique virtual scholarly network that keeps learners well connected throughout their program and after graduation. In addition, you also join a cohort, a small group of learners who undertake their doctoral journey in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Enjoy Yourself!

Finally, in order to make the most of your doctoral journey, it is important to enjoy yourself! Being a doctoral learner is an exciting time in life, as you are working toward advancing to your highest degree and preparing for a successful career.

Grand Canyon University’s College of Doctoral Studies creates a unique doctoral program experience that connects faculty and learners in a vibrant learning community. To learn more about earning a doctoral degree from GCU, visit our website or contact us using the Request More Information button at the top of the page.

Written by Lauren Abraham, a senior earning a degree in communications at GCU.