Essential elements in a qualitative dissertation proposal.

Abstract

This article clarifies the requirements of a qualitative research proposal, specifically a qualitative doctoral dissertation. The recommendations will be useful to graduate students and faculty members who are writing a qualitative proposal for the first time or who are critiquing one. A summary of assumptions of non-traditional research paradigms as they apply to inquiry design, a suggestion of the contents of the first three chapters of a qualitative dissertation (usually included in a dissertation proposal), and suggestions for ensuring rigor in the design and conduct of the dissertation research are included.