Ask Doctoral Advising

Yes, learners have advisors who help them navigate the maze of processes and policies connected with the dissertation. And, yes, learners have mentors who help guide them through the actual writing and researching involved for the dissertation. But learners should also learn something about the journey upon which they are embarking.

If you are heading off on a road trip to a new destination some distance away, you probably take a look at some maps and plan out a route to get there. Maybe you are organized enough to take a look at the Department of Transportation websites in the states through which you will travel to see if you can expect any road construction detours or delays.

If you have GPS in your vehicle, you probably check to make sure you have selected the right destination. If you are heading for Duluth, Georgia, you do not want to end up in Duluth, Minnesota, (although it is a very scenic area).

Capella learners have numerous resources to help them understand the path they will take. One is the Dissertation Manual, which gives a great deal of information. And, (shameless plug here) a new, streamlined version of the Milestones Guidebook is now on iGuide to provide a step-by-step look (remember, in a very brief form) at the milestones you need to complete along the way to having a Done Dissertation.