Students identify a research topic and develop a dissertation proposal (the first three chapters of the dissertation). Steps include identifying a researchable issue, conducting a literature search, writing a literature review, selecting a research methodology, and evaluating qualitative and statistical tools. Students select a dissertation chair and committee and develop an action plan for completing the dissertation. Ed.D students take this course for 1 unit; Ph.D. students take this course for 2 units and must pass all comprehensive exams before defending their proposal.