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Today, we are reporting on the University of Phoenix (UOP) and the redesign of its College of Doctoral Studies. Interestingly, the results show positive results in student retention and satisfaction with their dissertation experience. The College of Doctoral Studies includes five online doctoral degree programs that prepare students for leadership positions as follows:
- Business Administration
- Education
- Health Administration
- Management and Nursing Practice.
The new changes in the doctoral program, led to an approximately 10 percent increase in retention rates, the University found, and more than 55 percent positive response (mixed) and 81 percent positive (neutral) to the dissertation experience. Moreover, this includes a new faculty model and updates to the dissertation model.
Are you an adult with a full-time job but want to further your education? Then, you are in the right place. We invite you to continue reading to get in on the exciting changes happening at University of Phoenix and the redesign of its College of Doctoral Studies.
The Amazing Redesign of the College of Doctoral Studies at the University of Phoenix
Hinrich Eylers, Ph.D., P.E., Vice Provost of Doctoral Studies and Academic Operations at the University, said it is important for the doctoral degree programs to adapt to best serve students who are working adults.
“The practitioner doctorate programs must evolve to adapt with the changes in the work environment for our practitioner scholars,” he said. “We saw an immediate impact and continue to see positive results of these changes within each of our degree programs.”
The Scholar-Practitioner-Leader℠ Model at University of Phoenix
With all degree programs, UOP focuses on preparing students with the knowledge and skills they need to perform well in their industry. The College of Doctoral Studies follows a unique Scholar-Practitioner-Leader℠ mode. This model emphasizes practical knowledge and application. Moreover, this is different from doctoral programs at other higher educational institutions that focus on theory.
The Scholar-Practitioner-Leader℠ model combines the traditional inquiry, academic study, and practical application of a doctoral degree program. Interestingly, this also includes insights into application in real-world career settings. Therefore, the goal is for doctoral students to adapt what they learn to their current work activities.
Positive Changes Made to University of Phoenix Doctoral Programs
Another excellent UOP upgrade is adapting its doctoral programs to better meet the needs of its students using evidence-based practices.
“The College of Doctoral Studies saw opportunities to enhance the faculty and student experience and were able to successfully identify the necessary steps and implement changes that met those needs,” said John Woods, Ph.D., Provost and Chief Academic Officer, U of P
These changes happened across many areas. Instead of eight primary programs, UOP now offers four primary programs. Additionally, they also offer electives that allow students to tailor programs to their career needs. Moreover, students who receive a post-master’s certificate from UOP also receive credit toward their doctoral degree program. Responding to the need for greater flexibility and lower cost, UOP both reduces the minimum program length, from 62 to 54 credits, and moves on-campus residencies to an online experience.
Dissertation Support at University of Phoenix
The dissertation is one of the most challenging pieces of the doctoral degree process. It’s a project in which the student identifies a topic and then summarizes and analyzes relevant literature and research into a five-chapter manuscript.
To help facilitate the process for doctoral students, UOP added a team of 50 faculty who support students as they work on their dissertations. In addition, the practitioner faculty who are teaching doctoral-level courses support the students.
With this, students now receive additional dissertation support resources such as a Dissertation Guide and a Dissertation Criteria Assessment. The University also provides graduate-level dissertation courses in which students work with their department chair for support in completing and submitting dissertation proposals.
Following these changes, University of Phoenix noted that more all-but-dissertation students returned to complete their degree programs. Other positive changes that emerged following the redesign of the College of Doctoral Studies included increased program stability and improved faculty satisfaction.
In conclusion.
University of Phoenix is continually innovating to help working adults enhance their careers in a rapidly changing world. The University offers a range of online degree options including associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. It also offers professional certifications to meet the career goals of adult learners.
University of Phoenix’s College of Doctoral Studies offers programs in high-growth career areas including healthcare, business, and education. During doctoral programs, students and researchers work with organizations to conduct studies for practical use in the workplace. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, and Career Services for Life® commitment help students pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit www.phoenix.edu.
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About the Author: Ashley Edwards
