FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why the Doctoral Achievement Program?
The Doctoral Achievement Program is an innovative program dedicated to helping the 50% of individuals who began a doctoral program but were not able to complete it. We believe people deserve another chance, and we are committed to providing you with the opportunity to complete your doctorate. We seek to reinvent higher education for the ABD segment of the population.
We've created an innovative learning plan customized to where you are in your doctoral journey.
How does the Doctoral Achievement Program work?
Once accepted into the program, you will be assigned a mentor who will work exclusively with you to develop your dissertation and complete it. An adage says a good dissertation is a finished dissertation, and we are committed to helping you finish your dissertation. To see a diagram outlining the steps of the program, click here.
What can I study?
We are primarily focused on business degrees, but we have the agility to support different disciplines. We offer a unique specialization in global development studies.
If you are in a discipline other than business, please contact us to discuss whether our program could work for you. For example, if you began your doctorate in education, we have mentors who hold a doctorate in education and are skilled in working with doctoral students.
How many credits may I transfer in?
You can transfer in 18 credits. These credits, combined with the 42 credits you earn in the program, meet the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) standard of 60 credits.
How flexible is the program?
As you have probably noted, our program is a formulaic, competency-based program. This means that you can proceed as rapidly as you are able to master the competencies for the particular course. If you are able to complete a course in less than 12 weeks, you may proceed to the next course. You are expected to complete the course within 12 weeks except for the literature review and data collection and analysis. Each of these courses is doubled, and thus you have 24 weeks for each of them to master their respective competencies.
What level of quality can I expect?
We adhere to the standards of Quality Matters for our curriculum.
1. Course Overview and Introduction
2. Learning Objectives (Competencies)
3. Assessment and Measurement
4. Instructional Materials
5. Learning Activities and Learner Interaction
6. Course Technology
7. Learner Support
8. Accessibility and Usability
We have definitive proof of concept of the program. The full version of this program, including content and research courses, has been initiated at two major universities in the United States and is highly successful. Our mentors are experienced and understand the intricacies of the doctoral education process and completing a dissertation. They will accompany you step-by-step.
Is this a degree that employers seek for their employees?
For most individuals operating at the level at which you are working, employers seek two primary skills; the ability to think independently based on evidence and the ability to express themselves clearly through oral and written communication.
How many courses are there?
The program is comprised of seven courses: the architecture of the dissertation; the literature review (two courses); the research methodology; data collection and analysis (two courses); and findings conclusions and implications.
Who are the faculty?
The faculty are senior professionals and educators who have individually mentored at least 50 dissertations each and have been on many committees. They understand the dissertation process and can help you avoid the pitfalls that many students encounter. You may be familiar with such pitfalls from your previous program.
When do courses start?
Courses begin on a rolling basis when you are ready to commence your studies. It is expected that you will take courses in a sequential manner; that is, once you start a course, you will finish that course. Then after a week or two (as decided by you and your mentor) you will start the next course.
Is there financial aid?
The program offers a scholarship and different payment plans. This can be discussed in the interview process. Please see the application.
What is the program format?
The program format follows a standard online course format. This means that it will consist of the following components: introduction; core structure; course learning competencies and outcomes; course materials; assessment methods; discussions; course assignments; and evaluations.
What is our track record?
This program model was developed by us and is being successfully used at two major universities, each of which has several hundred students.
In what fields can I complete my degree?
The Doctoral Achievement Program is mentor-based. This means you may complete your degree in various fields with a mentor who has expertise in that field. This may include business, education, social work, and other fields of study.
How much does it cost?
The investment in the program is approximately $16,500. As the amount indicates, we prefer to focus on people over profit. We are in this endeavor for you. This amount could vary by the payment method chosen and the application of scholarships (if any). Please see the details in the application process.
How long will it take to complete the program?
We ask that you follow the program sequence, set aside enough time to apply yourself diligently, use available resources effectively, and stay in contact with your mentor. If you do these things, you should complete your program in two years or less.
What kind of support will I receive as a Doctoral Achievement Program student?
You will receive support throughout the program primarily from your mentor. You will also receive assistance from program staff for any program-related issues.
How do I know if I am eligible for the Doctoral Achievement Program?
Fill out the application. There is no obligation. Your application information will be kept strictly confidential. The program staff will respond within 24 hours.
How do I enroll in the Doctoral Achievement Program?
Begin by starting your application. Fill out the application form here.
How long is the approval process for admission to the Doctoral Achievement Program?
Once all your documentation is submitted, the admissions committee will meet and consider your application.
What are the orientation and residency requirements for doctorate degree completion students?
There are no in-person orientation or colloquim / residency requirements. You won't need to travel.
