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.