NRC: A Data Based Assessment of Research Doctorate Programs

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• Pre-release
• Participants
• Timeline
• Questionnaires
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Project Release

We are pleased to report the release of the NRC Assessment of Research Doctorate Programs.

On these pages, you will find the results of the study as well as background information about this large project.

We encourage you to review the Results for UNC-Chapel Hill.

Project Overview

The National Research Council is part of the National Academies — private, nonprofit institutions that provide science, technology and health policy advice under a congressional charter. The NRC Data Based Assessment of Research Doctorate Programs is a study that assessed the quality and characteristics of research-doctorate programs at institutions in the United States. The study consisted of:

• The collection of quantitative data through questionnaires administered to institutions, programs, faculty, and admitted to candidacy students (in selected fields).
• The collection of additional program data on publications, citations, and dissertation keywords.
• The design and construction of program ratings using the collected data.

The study was a large undertaking in terms of survey cost and the time of graduate programs and their faculty. The results are long overdue. Nevertheless, it was worthwhile to participate as it will provide faculty, students and those involved with public policy an in-depth look at the quality and characteristics of those programs that produce our future scientists, engineers, and those who help us understand the human condition.

UNC-Chapel Hill understands the importance of this project. This is a cooperative effort by the Graduate School, the academic units, and the Office of Institutional Research and Assessment. We will work together to analyze the results and keep everyone fully informed and involved. Thank you for your help on this difficult and large project.

Questions and suggestions should be directed to the Graduate School.