The Dissertation House is a multi-day intensive writing experience with built-in support and encouragement through workshops, one-on-one coaching, and seminars. Led by expert dissertation coach Dr. Wendy Carter-Veale, this opportunity allows graduate students to make significant progress on writing their proposal or dissertation, preparing for their defense, and communicating effectively with faculty.
Participants get assistance during the four-day program and also have the opportunity to receive continued one-on-one coaching with Dr. Carter Veale during the semester following Dissertation House. Alumni of this top-rated program say many positive things about the difference this made in their confidence and the completion of their graduate work.
Why is it called Dissertation House?
The first “Dissertation House” session was held in a large cabin as part of a West Virginia graduate student community-building retreat sponsored by PROMISE: Maryland’s AGEP, an NSF-supported initiative.
Dissertation House typically takes place three times a Year:
- In January (after Martin Luther King Day)
- In July (during the summer)
- In October (during the fall)
Spots are limited and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Announcements about dates can be found on our myUMBC page, and graduate students can apply below.
Over the years, the Dissertation House has moved on-campus and is supported through the UMBC Graduate School. It continues to be a very in-demand program that has helped many students finish their proposals and dissertations.