SCHOOL OF NURSINGCollege of Health, Education, and Human Development

HEALTHCARE GENETICS PhD

STUDENT HANDBOOK2016-2017

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Clemson University Healthcare Genetics PhD Student Handbook Table of Contents Page

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I. Introduction 4Faculty Student Responsibilities 4History of the interdisciplinary Healthcare Genetics PhD 4School of Nursing: Mission, Vision, Goals 5Accreditations, Statement of Equal Opportunity and ADA Guidelines 6School of Nursing Organizational Structure 7Important Contact Information 8School of Nursing Doctoral Faculty 9II. Getting Started 10Advisor 10Review of Academic and Work Experience 10Transfer Credit 11Course Revalidation 11First Year Review 12Subsequent Student Evaluations 12Performance in non-graded Courses Including Research 12Office Procedures 13Office Space 13Communication 13Clemson University Social Media Policy 14Digital Device Policy 15III. Interdisciplinary Healthcare Genetics PhD Program 17Overview of Program 17Curriculum and Degree Requirements 17Cognates 17Sample Curriculum Progression 18Summary of Graduate School Requirements Coursework 20Residency 20Time Limit 20Academic Integrity 20Harassment 21Mentoring 21Conflict Resolution 22Being a Doctoral Student 22Planning Ahead 23Research Project 23Identification of Advisor/Dissertation Chair 24Building a Resume/Vita 24IV. Formation of the Comprehensive and Dissertation Committee 25The Major Advisor 25Comprehensive Exam Committee 25Dissertation Committee 25Major Advisor’s Responsibilities 26Doctoral Student’s Responsibilities 26Choosing a Committee 27Comprehensive Exam 28Purpose 28Procedures and Preparation 29Planning for the Comprehensive Exam 29Evaluation 29Evaluation Categories 30Time Limit 31Dissertation and Establishing a Program of Research 31Dissertation/Research Proposal 31Manuscript Development 31

Section I: IntroductionThis handbook has been developed to provide a convenient source of information about the Healthcare Genetics interdisciplinary PhD (iHCG) program, procedures, services and facilities. The information contained within this document is for general guidance on matters of interest to faculty and students and will be relevant throughout your doctoral studies. The handbook will be updated periodically as needed.

This handbook also summarizes Campus/University and the Graduate School’s policies. For up-to-date policies refer to the website for Clemson University (www.cle m son.edu ) and the Graduate School (http://www.grad.cle m son.edu/ ), especially check the “Forms” & “Dissertation” information.

Faculty-Student ResponsibilitiesIt is the joint responsibility of faculty and doctoral students to work together to develop scholarly and professional traits through relationships that encourage freedom of inquiry, demonstrate personal and professional integrity, and foster mutual respect. High quality doctoral education depends upon the professional and ethical conduct of both faculty and students.

Members of the interdisciplinary doctoral faculty serve a variety of critical roles as model teachers and researchers as well as doctoral student advisors and mentors. The faculty and doctoral committees on which they serve provide intellectual guidance in support of the scholarly and pedagogical efforts of doctoral students and are responsible for ongoing evaluation of doctoral students' performances in academic and research activities. As mentors and advisors, faculty are responsible for assisting doctoral students to discover and participate in appropriate channels of scholarly, professional and disciplinary exchange. Additionally, our faculty will help students develop the professional research, teaching, and networking skills that are required for a variety of genetics-related career options, both within and outside academia.

Doctoral students are responsible for working towards completion of their degree programs in a timely fashion. It is expected that doctoral students will gain expertise in a particular area of study and seek to expand the knowledge of that disciplinary field by discovering and pursuing a unique topic of scholarly research. Doctoral students should learn how to impart disciplinary knowledge through appropriate forms of instruction and publication and learn how to apply that knowledge to societal problems.

History of the Interdisciplinary Healthcare Genetics (HCG) PhD:

Approved in the spring of 2008, the interdisciplinary Healthcare Genetics PhD (iHCG PhD) is comprised of faculty and staff dedicated to advancing the mission of the School of Nursing and that of Clemson University. The HCG PhD is the first of its kind in the nation and brings together experts in many fields to prepare future leaders in health policy, ethics, clinical practice and translational bench science in the field of healthcare genetics. Genetic advances are poised to have a great impact on emerging healthcare practices.

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About The School of Nursing

The School of Nursing is an integral part of Clemson University, a land-grant, state-supported institution of higher learning. The School is committed to teaching, research, and service to the public of South Carolina, the nation and the world. The goal of the Clemson University School of Nursing is to prepare nurses for professional practice, leadership in health care, and to advance nursing knowledge.

MISSIONThe mission of Clemson University School of Nursing, as a scholarly center of learning, is to educate students at the baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels to become healthcare professionals who advance scientific knowledge and evidence-based practice through research and outreach.

VISIONClemson University School of Nursing will shape the future of nursing and healthcare through leadership, scholarship, and practice to optimize the health and quality-of-life for the people of South Carolina, the nation, and the global community.

GOALS*Deliver state-of-the-art education to aspiring healthcare professionals to prepare them for excellence in

practice and leadership within a dynamic healthcare environment. 

*Create a vibrant, interdisciplinary community of scholars who contribute to knowledge generation and dissemination, thereby shaping practice and policy.

 *Engage in leadership, research, and service to optimize health and quality of life for people locally, nationally

and globally. 

*Increase diversity among faculty, students, and staff within a mutually respectful, professional environment. 

*Expand opportunities and resources through the development of relationships with clinical, community and corporate partners, and alumni.

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Accreditation

Clemson University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award the Bachelor's, Master's, Education Specialist, and Doctoral degrees.  Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097 or call at 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Clemson University.

The School of Nursing is accredited by the following national accreditation agency:

Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)One Dupont Circle NW

Suite 350Washington, DC 20036-1120

Telephone: 202-887-6791

Revised and Approved by Faculty spring 2014

Statement of Equal Opportunity

The School of Nursing follows the University policy in conducting its programs and activities involving admission and treatment of students, employment, teaching, research and public service in a non-discriminatory manner. “Clemson University does not discriminate against any individual or group on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation or veteran’s status.”

ADA Guidelines

The School of Nursing complies with federal ADA guidelines. Any student who requires accommodation should contact Clemson University’s Student Disability Services (SDS). If a nursing student or applicant believes that he or she cannot perform the above standards satisfactorily without reasonable accommodation, then he or she should register with Clemson University’s Student Disability Services (SDS). It is the student’s responsibility to request the accommodation in a timely manner; the university is not required to give retroactive application to any accommodation requested or granted. Upon receipt of any request for accommodation SDS will request that the student provide the appropriate and necessary documentation to confirm the disability. Once the disability is confirmed, SDS will determine the appropriate accommodations and either provide for or arrange such reasonable accommodations, academic adjustments, and/or auxiliary aids and services for students. The student is responsible for maintaining contact with SDS and for working with faculty to plan appropriate learning experiences.

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Kimberly FinleyStudent Services Coordinator

Undergraduate

*Hillarie Brown Student Services Coordinator

Graduate and Accelerated 2nd Degree

*Ellen ChilesStudent Services Coordinator

RN/BS and Healthcare Genetics PhD

Julie EggertDoctoral

Coordinator

Stephanie DavisGraduate

Coordinator

Deborah WilloughbyInterim RN/BS

Coordinator

* Cynthia Mihalchick Administrative Assistant & Clinical Coordinator

University Center of Greenville

Dr. Katherine ValentineAssociate Dean/Director

School of Nursing Community

Advisory BoardExecutive Council

Clemson University School of Nursing Organizational StructurePrograms leading to the baccalaureate and master's degree in nursing are implemented by faculty in the School of Nursing. The PhD is

interdisciplinary and based in the School of Nursing. Current Administration includes a Director and five faculty program coordinators: Undergraduate (BS, Nursing), Accelerated Second Degree, RN-BS, Graduate (MS, Nursing), & Doctorate (PhD, Healthcare Genetics).

Janice Martin Admin. Assistant

Robin MetlerHR & Clinical Coordinator

Faculty Council

John WhitcombUndergraduate Coor.

Interim Accelerated 2nd

Degree Program

Nancy WatkinsAdmin. Assistant

Important Contact Information

Dr. Brett A. Wright, Interim Dean, College of HEHD, 864.656.3630, wright@clemson.edu

Dr. Katherine Valentine, Associate Dean/Director of Nursing, 864 656.5527

School of Nursing Coordinators

Dr. Julie Eggert, HCG Program Coordinator, 864.640.1869 jaegger@clemson.edu

Dr. John Whitcomb, Undergraduate Coordinator, 864.250.1741 jwhitco@clemson.edu

Dr. Deborah F. Willoughby, RN-BS Program Coordinator, 854.656.1437 willoud@clemson.edu

Dr. Stephanie Davis, Graduate Coordinator, 864.656.2588 stephad@clemson.edu

Sheri Webster, Accelerated Second Degree Coordinator 864.656.3271 swebste@clemson.edu

Support Staff

Ellen Chiles M.Ed., Student Services Program Coordinator, RN-BS and HCG Programs, 864.250.8881 achiles@clemson.edu

Cynthia Mihalchick, Administrative Assistant, Clinical Coordinator, School of Nursing at University Center of Greenville, 864, 250-6701. mihalch@clemson.edu

Additional Resources

Graduate School, http://www.grad.clemson.edu/ 864-656-4172, graduate_school@clemson.edu

Andrew Wesolek, Clemson Resource Librarian for Nursing, 864.656.0694, awesole@clemson.edu

Mike Namaranian, CU Bookstore, 864.656.2050, mnamar@clemson.edu

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SCHOOL OF NURSING DOCTORAL FACULTY2015/2016

Faculty Member & Degree School (Doctoral) Clinical Specialties/Research Interests

Roxanne Amerson, PhD, RN Clemson University Cultural Competence, Transcultural Nursing Stephanie Davis, PhD, RN, FNP USC Women’s Health, Quality of Life, Breast

CancerNicole Davis, PhD, RN, AGPCNP-BC, GNP-BC Georgia State University GeriatricsJane DeLuca, PhD, RN, PNP-BC University of Rochester Pediatrics,

Genetics, Qualitative ResearchLisa Miller, PhD, RN, FNP USC Postpartum Depression, Elective Cesarean

SectionJulia Eggert, PhD, RN, GNP-BC, AGN-BC, AOCN® Clemson University Genetics & Cancer

RiskTracy Fasolino, PhD, RN, FNP USC Complexity theory, Primary Care,

Emergency CareNancy Meehan, PhD, RN Univ. Texas Nursing Informatics & ResearchVeronica G. Parker, PhD MUSC Bio-statistics, Risk Assessment, Health Disp.

Rosanne H. Pruitt, PhD, RN, FNP University of Maryland Community Health Nursing & Primary Care Mary Beth Steck, PhD, RN, FNP Clemson University Familial cutaneous malignant melanoma, Genetics

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Heide Temples, PhD, RN, PNP Clemson University Obesity,Genetics,Breastfeeding,Family Planning Shirley Timmons, PhD, RN USC Minority Health, Health Disparities, HIV/AIDS Margaret Wetsel, PhD, RN, CNS University of Texas Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing John Whitcomb, PhD, RN, CCRN University of San Diego Critical Care, Med/Surg, Administration Deborah Willoughby, PhD, RN GA State University Med/Surg and Adult Health, Diabetes

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Section II: Getting StartedCongratulations! You are a Doctoral Student in the interdisciplinary Healthcare Genetics PhD Program. Your admission to this program is the result of a rigorous selection process. You should be proud of yourself for this achievement.

The items of business to complete during your first weeks are listed on the GraduateSchool website at http://www.grad.cle m son.edu/new l y_accepted/index_international . ph p .1. Obtain your student ID at the Hendrix Student Center.2. Obtain parking permit (if needed).3. Have your laptop set up and checked with CCIT through the following website: http://www.clemson.edu/ccit/help_support/laptops/. 4. International students should obtain a Social Security card from the Office of International Services http://www.clemson.edu/administration/ia/services/ if needed.5. Register for classes through iROAR, if that has not yet been completed.

Advisor:Your first advisor will be the iHCG Program Coordinator. The selection of your permanent advisor will occur by the end of the second year.

Review of Academic and Work Experience:If you come to the PhD program with a master’s degree, you need to meet with the HCG Program Coordinator once you have been accepted to the HCG program; prior to beginning classes. Courses may be waived/transferred with the approval of the HGC Program Coordinator.

Procedure for Student:There is a formal process to submit course work to waive or receive credit “in lieu of” HCG courses. No courses are certified as ‘approved’ and ‘finalized’ until an official transcript from all institutions has been received by Graduate Admissions and said courses are approved on the finalized and signed GS2 FORM. All prior coursework must meet institutional guidelines.

*Student submits official transcripts from approved accredited institutions to Graduate Admissions.*Student meets with HCG Program Coordinator to discuss a draft plan of study for courses and submit a formal request for waived/”in lieu of” classes, transfer credit, and professional work experience. * Student completes and submits GS2 form to the department by beginning of the first term.

The initial GS2 FORM is a guide and contains proposed coursework and may be altered as needed but should not be construed as finalized. The final copy of the GS2 must include all coursework and credits approved. It must be signed by the student’s advisor, Dissertation Committee Chair, Committee members, Program Coordinator, Director, HEHD Dean and then submitted to Enrolled Student Services.

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Transfer Credit, Courses Policy:All transfer credits must be verified by an official transcript from the institution at which the work was completed. Up to 48 credit hours of coursework may be transferred to a doctoral degree. All credits transferred to Clemson's graduate programs must have been completed at a regionally accredited institution and not associated with a degree. Credits may be transferred for work completed at off-campus centers of accredited institutions, provided such courses are acceptable, without reservation, in degree programs at those institutions. In all cases, the use of transfer credits must be recommended by the student's advisory committee and approved by the department. Grades earned for courses taken at institutions other than Clemson University will not be included in the student's grade point ratio. Courses to be considered for transfer credit completed outside the six year time limit may not be transferred to Clemson. Courses taken at any institution other than Clemson University may not be revalidated for transfer credit at Clemson. Valid transfer credits will appear on the student's transcript as credits earned.

Under no circumstances will transfer credit be awarded for courses in which a grade lower than B, or its equivalent, has been received or for courses graded on a pass/fail basis, for continuing education units, courses completed outside the six-year time limit, correspondence, extension, or in-service courses or for concentrated courses and workshops that award credit at a rate exceeding one credit per week. All transfer courses listed on Form GS2 must be courses taken for credit from a regionally-accredited, degree-granting institution whose scholastic reputation is acceptable to Clemson University.

Procedure for Student:To have courses considered for transfer, students must discuss their plan to use specific courses from other institutions with their major advisor and/or advisory committee. Within the guidelines established by the Graduate School, the advisory committee will identify courses acceptable for transfer and will record these courses on the student's Plan of Study, Form GS2. The student must then have an official transcript sent from the institution(s) where credit was earned to the Office of Enrolled Student Services, 104D Sikes Hall. Only when courses have been verified by Enrolled Services to meet all Graduate School requirements will they be approved for application toward the degree.

Course Revalidation Policy:When recommended by the student's advisory committee and approved by the graduate dean, as many as six credit hours of graded coursework taken at Clemson University, completed outside the six-year time limit, may be revalidated by a written comprehensive examination based on the latest syllabus and course content. Independent study courses are not subject to revalidation. Courses completed outside the six-year time limit at an institution other than Clemson University may not be transferred to Clemson. Courses taken at any institution other than Clemson University may not be revalidated for credit at Clemson.Procedure for student: Students desiring to request revalidation of courses should contact the graduate program coordinator for instructions on how to proceed. Procedure for department: The "Recommendation for Course Revalidation" form can

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be found in the general forms section of the Graduate School web page, www.grad.clemson.edu/forms/GeneralForms.php. The course revalidation form is sent to the Office of Enrolled Student Services at 104D Sikes Hall once it is approved by the instructor and the department chair. The revalidated credits will be posted on the student's transcript once the student becomes a candidate for graduation.Credit by examination: Graduate students are not eligible to receive credit by examination other than through utilization of the policy and procedures on course revalidation.

First Year Review:By March 1st, all students are expected to submit to the iHCG PhD program coordinator an annual progress report discussing their experience as a new doctoral student, grades received and a copy of their current vita. The material will be reviewed by the Coordinator and the entire degree program faculty as necessary.

Subsequent Student Evaluations:All other graduate students will submit, by April 1st, an annual progress report and a copy of their current vita to their academic advisor covering the preceding year. The student’s advisor will review the student’s progress. However, each student’s progress may be discussed by the entire committee and faculty. (See also “Taking Care of You".

All students are reviewed once a year at the end of the spring semester. Written evaluations are placed in the students file and available shortly after this review for the student to peruse within the HCG office at the University Center of Greenville. No files will be removed from this site.

These evaluations provide the student with an opportunity to correct or update an incomplete file as well as to review plans and to assess his or her progress. The student's annual progress report and vita will be used as major input for these evaluations, as will the comments of the student's advisory committee and other informed faculty members.

Performance in the graduate program is judged on the basis of the following criteria:A= OutstandingB= Typical and solid performanceC= Unacceptable performance

Consult with your faculty advisor regarding incompletes. Incompletes usually should be made up within two or three weeks after the end of the semester. Any student who receives a grade of “C” in any course will automatically be considered on probation until reinstated to good standing. A student receiving a C will be considered on probation until the course has been retaken or a full semester of additional course work has been taken with satisfactory grades. A “C” in two courses is a solid basis for automatic dismissal from the program. A person who does not maintain at least a “B” (3.0) grade average may be asked to leave the program.

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Performance in Non-graded Courses Including Research:In most cases, the grade will be “P”. The standards are: P= Pass, Satisfactory performance. I= Incomplete. Can be made up by the end of the following semester and changed to S. F= Fail, Unsatisfactory. A grade of “F” is grounds for automatic dismissal from the graduate program. Any student who does not show potential for doctoral level research as certified by the student’s advisory committee may be put on probation or asked to leave the program. Being placed on probation does not mean that financial support will be withdrawn from the student. It means faculty members are concerned about the student’s progress and they want to send a strong message that certain steps must be taken to rectify the situation. The Graduate School must also receive notification from the PhD program, if this action is being taken for any student in the program.

Office Procedures:Office supplies, the copier, and the FAX machine are located on 5th floor of Edwards Hall. Office supplies are used for work associated with assistantships. If supplies need to be ordered, contact your course leader. The business manager orders all supplies.

Students are responsible for copying materials requested by the faculty or related to your assigned research project. Be sure to type in the correct code when making copies, as all business is charged to specific contracts or grants. Contact the Administrative Assistant to the Director (AAD) at Room 508 Edwards Hall regarding the use of codes.

Office Space:Students have shared office space on the 4th floor of Edwards Hall. Keys are available at the beginning of the fall semester through the Administrative Assistant to the Director. Students working on their dissertation can apply for a carrel at the Cooper Library.

Office space is available at UCG on a first come, first serve basis. In addition to the Nursing Suite, there is also office space in the Clemson suite close to the library.

Communication:HCG PhD program announcements will be sent by email. It is important to check for crucial mail. A Facebook site is also available for informal communication.

The Promoter is a newsletter that is produced at least quarterly. It includes future opportunities for presentations, snips of new information in genetics/genomics and a message from the program coordinator.

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Clemson University School of Nursing Social Media PolicyAdapted from White Paper: A Nurse’s Guide to the Use of Social Media;

2011, p. 3; National Council of State Boards of Nursing

Awareness and caution are required to avoid inadvertently disclosing confidential or private information about patients. All Clemson University School of Nursing students are expected to comply with the following requirements related to the use of social media.

First and foremost, nurses and nursing students must recognize that they have ethical and legal obligations to maintain patient privacy and confidentiality at all times.

Students are strictly prohibited from transmitting by way of any electronic media any patient-related or facility related information and/or images. In addition, students are restricted from transmitting any information that may be reasonably anticipated to violate patient rights to confidentiality or privacy, or otherwise degrade or embarrass the patient.

Do not share, post, or otherwise disseminate any information, including images, about a patient or information gained in the nurse-patient relationship or within your clinical facility with anyone.

Do not identify patients by name or post or publish information that may lead to the identification of a patient. This includes any information about the patient: name, address, age, gender, diagnosis, room number, admission date, discharge date, date of birth or death, date of care, or anything else. NO PATIENT OR FACILIITY RELATED INFORMATION CAN BE POSTED ON SOCIAL MEDIA!! Limiting access to postings through privacy settings is not sufficient to ensure privacy.

Never refer to patients in a disparaging manner, even if the patient is not identified.

Do not take photos or videos of patients on personal devices, including cell phones

Maintain professional boundaries in the use of electronic media. As with in-person relationships, the nurse has the obligation to establish, communicate and enforce professional boundaries with patients in the online environment. Use caution when having online social contact with patients or former patients. Online contact with patients or former patients blurs the distinction between a professional and personal relationship. The fact that a patient may initiate contact with the nurse does not permit the nurse to engage in a personal relationship with the patient.

Do not post any information regarding work related issues. Do not even post seemingly innocuous information such as “It was a busy day”. Such information could be used in a lawsuit to imply various things about the work environment.

Promptly report any identified breach of confidentiality or privacy to your instructor and lead teacher.

Be aware of and comply with facility policies regarding use of employer-owned computers, cameras and other electronic devices and use of personal devices in the work place.

Do not make disparaging remarks about employers or co-workers. Do not make threatening, harassing, profane, obscene, sexually explicit, racially derogatory, homophobic or other offensive comments. DO NOT POST ANY INFORMATION WITH REFERENCE TO YOUR SPECIFIC CLINICAL EXPERIENCE.

Do not post content or otherwise speak about employer or facility.

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Summary of CU SON Social Media Policy: Do not post any clinical, patient, or facility related information on any social media. DOING SO WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION, UP TO AND INCLUDING DISMISSAL FROM THE CLINCIAL, THE SCHOOL OF NURSING AND/OR CLEMSON UNIVERSITY.

Policy for Use of Personal Digital Devices in the Clinical Area

A. Personal digital devices (PDD’s), including phones, tablets, laptops, or other digital devices, are to be used in the clinical areas only as approved in advance and directed by faculty. Their use is primarily to access clinical support applications that have been stored on the device. Use of portable electronic devices in clinical is regulated by the clinical agencies, local, state, and federal regulations and laws and by the School of Nursing. All students are fully responsible for following all regulations of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) guidelines and for following HIPAA guidelines when using their PPD’s in the clinical or other settings.

B. No personal health identifiers (PHI) can be entered into the device. All personal health identifiers must be removed from any patient data collected by students on PPD’s. Students are fully responsible to ensure that they adhere to all HIPAA regulations at all times. This includes proper management of confidential client information.

C. All telephone and camera functions must be disabled during clinical and lab sessions by placing devices in “Airplane” mode.

D. With the exception of instructor approved activities, ALL PHONES WILL REMAIN ON AIRPLANE MODE in the clinical area. Students must adhere to professional standards for all communications, including maintaining confidentiality, proper conduct of communication, and communicating appropriate material.

E. Using the device for personal, non-school related functions is strictly prohibited. Inappropriate use or violation of HIPAA guidelines may result in dismissal from the clinical, the School of Nursing and/or Clemson University. Inappropriate use includes making or receiving personal calls while in the clinical area, sending or receiving personal texts while in the clinical area, accessing any non-clinical related web-sites while in the clinical area, taking pictures during clinical, or recording any PHI on the device.

F. Students should only use the personal digital device in areas designated by the instructor in compliance with institutional policy.

G. Infection control precautions must be maintained when using personal devices in patient care areas (See Personal Digital Device Infection Control below). All students will sign the CU SON electronic compliance form indicating that they have read and understood these policies. This form will be placed in each student’s file.

Personal Digital Device Infection Control

Wash hands before using handheld device. Do not handle device with contaminated gloves. Wipe down handheld device using solutions recommended by manufacturer and

approved by the institution. Avoid placing device on surfaces that can possibly contaminate device, such as bedside

tables or patients’ beds. Avoid taking devices into isolation rooms.

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Keep in mind the risk for transmission of organisms is not only to your patients, but also to yourself and your family and friends.

Summary

Protected Health Information (PHI) cannot be entered into the digital device. All patient related information is protected.

Phones must be in airplane mode while in clinical. Pictures cannot be taken in the clinical setting. The usage of personal cell phone functions, including personal text messaging, personal

calls, or accessing non- clinically related websites is prohibited during clinical hours.

Cleaning of digital device must comply with the clinical organization’s infection control policy and procedures. If the device becomes contaminated, it should be cleaned with the recommended disinfectant. If a patient is on isolation, the digital device cannot be taken into the patient’s room. Hand hygiene is the best method of preventing transmission of disease.

Inappropriate use of personal digital devices or violation of HIPAA guidelines may result in dismissal from the clinical, the School of Nursing and/or Clemson University.

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Section III: Interdisciplinary Healthcare Genetics PhD Program

Overview of Program:The purpose of the Clemson University School of Nursing, Interdisciplinary PhD in Healthcare Genetics is to prepare scientists to extend the knowledge base relevant to genetics in healthcare; translate research to advance the science; and collaborate in interdisciplinary research and practice. Objectives of the program are to:1. Collaborate with other disciplines to generate knowledge and develop theories that focus on the genomic aspects of actual and potential health problems of diverse individuals, families, groups and communities while addressing health disparities.2. Formulate health promotion, disease prevention and treatment strategies that translate and integrate genomic knowledge from a variety of disciplines.3. Demonstrate leadership that facilitates interdisciplinary development and application of ethical guidelines and health policy in genomics.4. Disseminate research findings to expand knowledge of genomics into models of practice.

Curriculum and HCG Degree RequirementsCourse Credit Hours=37

1. Core Course Option 1* 3 credits2. HCG 9010 Advances in Human Genetics 3 credits3. GEN 6100 Basics I Population Genetics 3 credits4. GEN 6200 Molecular Genetics 3 credits5. GEN 6700 Human Genetics 3 credits6. HCG 9050 Genetics Ethics & Health Policy 3 credits7. PSYCH 8100 Research Design & Quantitative Methods I 3 credits8. PSYCH 8110 Research Design & Quantitative Methods II 3 credits9. Core Course Option 2* 3 credits10. HCG 9030 Interdisciplinary Research 1 credit11. GEN 6400 Bioinformatics 3 credits12. Core Course Option 3* 3 credits13. HCG9070Applied Healthcare Genetics 3 credits

*Core Course Options. 1. Healthcare Research: HCG989 Selected Topics or HCG 910 Research Seminar2. Qualitative Methods: EDF9790; and, 3. Knowledge Development: Theory course from NURS, HCG or other disciplines CognatesEthics & PolicyTotal = 26 credits

InterventionistTotal = 26 credits

Bench ScientistTotal =26 credits **

HCG 9100 ResearchSeminar or Electives (9 credits)

HCG 9100 Research Seminar or Electives (9 credits)

HCG 9100 Research Seminar or Electives (9 credits)

HCG 9890 Selected Topics or Electives (9 credits)

HCG 9890 Selected Topics or Electives (9 credits)

HCG 9890 Selected Topics or Electives (9 credits)

HCG 9910 Dissertation (18Credits)

HCG 9910 Dissertation (18Credits)

HCG 9910 Dissertation (18Credits)

The HCG PhD requires a minimum of 70 credit hours. This can include up to 48 hours of approved transfer hours. All requirements depend on the learning needs of the student and

transferrable coursework.

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Summary of Graduate School Requirements Coursework: Work leading to the Doctor of Philosophy degree is planned to give the student a comprehensive knowledge of his or her field of specialization and a mastery of the methods of research. The degree is not awarded solely on the basis of coursework completed, residence, or other routine requirements. The final basis of granting the degree is the student’s grasp of the subject matter of a broad field of study, competence in planning and conducting research, and ability to express himself or herself adequately and professionally orally and in writing.

Although no minimum for formal coursework requirements exists for the doctoral degree, committees are encouraged to require courses other than those that directly support the dissertation research. Work in the minor field or fields, if required, normally comprises12-24 hours in courses carrying graduate credit. A minimum of 18 hours of doctoral research is required. Should the direction of study or research interest change, the student may request the appointment of a new advisor.

Residency: Residence is a necessary concept in graduate education, particularly in the preparation of the dissertation. To receive the Doctor of Philosophy degree, the student must complete at least 18 hours of graduate credit including research credit hours (HCG9910) on the Clemson University campus in a continuous 12-month period. Exceptions to this requirement may be granted by the Dean of the Graduate School. Major advisors seeking an exemption to this policy must submit an academic plan for the student that is signed by the major advisor and Dean of the Graduate School.

Time Limit:Because no minimum coursework requirements exist for the Doctor of Philosophy degree, the time limitation for completion is determined by the dates by which essential components of the degree are completed. The following must be passed in the five-year period prior to graduation: comprehensive examination; foreign language examination, if required; defense of dissertation; and approval of dissertation by the Graduate School.

Academic Integrity:As members of the Clemson University community we have inherited Thomas GreenClemson's vision of this institution as a "high seminary of learning”. Fundamental to this vision is a mutual commitment to truthfulness, honor, and responsibility, without which we cannot earn the trust and respect of others. Furthermore, we recognize that academic dishonesty detracts from the value of a Clemson degree. Therefore, we shall not tolerate lying, cheating, or stealing in any form.

The Academic Integrity, Graduate Policy and Procedures (implementation date: fall2010) is available at http:// g rads p ace.edit m e.co m /AcademicG r ie v ancePolicyandProcedures # i ntegritypol .

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Clemson University has a responsibility to protect academic integrity and to respond appropriately and expeditiously to charges of academic misconduct. The procedure is explained in the policy stated in the above website.

Harassment: Clemson University has instituted a zero tolerance policy with regard to harassment of any kind against employees, students and non-employees, The University is committed to providing a harassment-free environment and prohibits retaliation against any individual who files a complaint or assists or participates in the investigation and resolution of a complaint. For the complete text of the Clemson University harassment policy and complaint resolution policy, go to: http://www.cle m son.edu/ca m pus-life/ca m pus- services/access/docu m ent s /policies/harass m ent.pd f .

Harassment is defined as follows:“In general, harassment is unwelcome verbal or physical conduct based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, age, disability, status as a military veteran or protected activity (e.g., opposition to prohibited discrimination or participation in the statutory complaint process) that unreasonable interferes with person’s work or educational performance or creates an intimidating or hostile work or educational environment. Examples may include, but are not limited to; epithets, slurs, jokes or other verbal, graphic or physical conduct” (Office of the General Counsel).

Mentoring:Mentoring is a relationship. In graduate school, mentoring relationships develop over time between a graduate student and one or more faculty members, or with other professionals who have a strong interest in the student’s educational and career goals. The Council of Graduate Schools defines mentors as:

• Advisors, who have career experience and share their knowledge.

• Supporters, who give emotional and moral encouragement.

• Tutors, who provide specific feedback on performance.

• Masters, who serve as employers to graduate “apprentices”.

• Sponsors, who are sources of information and opportunities.

• Models of Identity, who serve as academic role models.

Take charge of your graduate education and find a mentor to help you understand how your goals and ambitions fit into your graduate education and postgraduate career choices. Some mentoring and advising activities are similar, but remember that not all

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mentors are advisors and not all advisors are mentors. We have assigned you a first year advisor to help you get started, but it is up to you to identify your mentor(s). There are two excellent publications to help you “Get the Mentoring You Want”. These can be found online at: http://www.grad.wash i ngton.edu/ m e ntoring/GradStudentMentor.pdf

Conflict Resolution:Students and faculty at Clemson University are a diverse group whose personalities, experiences and goals may vary widely. Most conflicts and problems that arise in this environment can be resolved without a formal grievance procedure. Informal resolution, where possible, is generally the best for all.

Informal Resolution:A student who believes he or she has a legitimate grievance should first discuss it with his or her advisor. In most cases the problem can be resolved at this level. If discussion with an advisor is inappropriate, discussion with the graduate coordinator, a senior faculty member or the Ombudsman may solve the problem. Campus offices such as the Graduate School or the Office of Access and Equity, http://www.cl e m s on.edu/ca m pus- life/ca m pus-services/access/ , may also be of help.

Formal Resolution:A student may elect to file a formal grievance with the Graduate School. The student’s grievance must be in writing and is made to the Dean of the Graduate School. Specific procedures for student grievances are located at http://www.cle m son.edu/ad m i nistrat i on/ogc/legal-topics/grievances.ht m l Read them before you submit the formal grievance.

Grievances alleging discrimination, including harassment, by reasons of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital status and disability are filed with the Office of Access and Equity.

The University makes reasonable accommodation for students’ religious beliefs, observances and practices in class attendance, the scheduling of examinations and work requirements. A student desiring accommodation of religious beliefs, observations or practices should make the request in writing. The student may appeal any adverse decision by the instructor to the Dean of the Graduate School. The student’s appeal must be in writing.

Being a Doctoral Student:Graduate students are pursuing an education to become the next generation of scientists, scholars and policy experts. The field of Healthcare Genetics will move forward to the extent that you are well educated; therefore, you should think about the requirements of your program as a means to an end. The end for you is to become the best scientist, teacher, policy expert and scholar possible. The means are dissertations, research projects, internships, comprehensive exam, assistantship, assignments and course work. Keep focused on your fundamental goals and try not to get distracted by minor problems

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and issues. Think about all the components of your education, not just course requirements.

Planning Ahead:One of your major goals is to obtain a good job after graduate school. For an academic position, for example, you will need to two to four publications in respected journals, a few conference presentations, and strong letters of reference from your advisor and committee members. Those of you who plan a more practice or policy-oriented career will need to demonstrate competence in those areas. For those who plan to teach it is essential that you obtain teaching experience while you are in the PhD program. Consult with your advisor and committee members to learn the appropriate amount of experience and skills needed in your area of work. Ask your advisor and others whose opinion you respect what a strong vita looks like in your particular area of interest, and then work to develop such a vita while you are in graduate school. The Career Center (316 Hendrix Student Center) also holds useful workshops and provides career counseling.

It is important that you become a broadly educated scholar in Healthcare Genetics; therefore, you should attend talks, presentations or colloquia even if they are outside of the HCG program. The websites of the Strom Thurmond Institute, Policy Studies program, Sociology, Rutland Center for Ethics and the Office of Teaching Effectiveness are good places to check. The bulletin board in the Graduate Studies room will also list presentations of interest.

You should also attend faculty candidate presentations. You can learn how to prepare (and how not to prepare) for these presentations. It is a good idea to attend with several other students so you can discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the presentation.

The HCG PhD program will hold regular meetings (sometimes called the Distinguished Researcher Presentation, “brown bags” or retreats) to present research and project activities. Attendance at these meetings is a part of your training and will help you grow as a researcher. Make sure you understand any policies about attendance at these meetings and retreats.

Research Projects:Your dissertation is certainly an important research product; however, a successful graduate student should consider the dissertation to be only a part of the process in developing herself or himself academically and professionally. It is critical that you are involved with other research projects, varying the type and extent of your involvement on each so you get the most out of every experience. Take the lead on some aspects of your class projects and a supporting role on others. Look for opportunities to be a first author on some projects and a contributing author on other papers. Talk with faculty to determine if there is an opportunity to work on a research project team.

Find a balance in working on research projects. Do not spread yourself too thin so you cannot be meaningfully involved in any project. Watch for opportunities to present your work at national meetings. Ask your advisor about the possibility of travel funds such as

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those provided by the college, Graduate School and Graduate Student Government.

Identification of an Advisor/Dissertation Chair:Your advisor is the most significant person in your life as a doctoral student. This is a relationship that can last a lifetime. Make sure you have a cordial relationship based on mutual respect and meet on a regular basis. Your advisor is your best source for information about your science, and he or she is best able to advise you about what you need to do to be competitive in your relevant job market. Your advisor also knows about sources of funding you might use to support travel to conferences or to finance your dissertation activities. He or she could also give advice on conferences you should attend, experiences you should gain, and journals in which you should aim to publish your work.

Building a Resume/Vita:Start writing a vita from your first day in Graduate School. Talk with your advisor about the format. The Career Center also provides information about developing vitas and resumes.

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Section IV: Formation of the Comprehensive and Dissertation Committees

The Major Advisor:After the end of the second-year the student (often with the aid of the first year advisor) must select a major advisor. This advisor must be a member of the program faculty offering the degree and meet the requirements for advisory committee membership described below.

Comprehensive Exam Committee:This committee is composed of four members, two from the School of Nursing and one from within the university. The final member should be from outside the university. The group administers the comprehensive and oral examinations.

Dissertation Committee:The student must select a dissertation committee in consultation with the major advisor (Chair). This committee approves the student's graduate degree curriculum, supervises the graduate program, and initiates the recommendation for the awarding of the degree. The chairperson, or major adviser, directs the student's dissertation. This committee may be the same or different from the Comprehensive Exam Committee members. This decision is an important one for each doctoral student. A helpful essay is available at http://gradstudies.wordpress.co m / 2008/01/20/choosing-your-graduate-advisor/ .

“A minimum of four faculty members shall be selected for a student seeking a doctoral degree. The majority of the advisory committee, including the major adviser, must be comprised of Clemson University faculty who hold full-time tenure-track positions. Either the major advisor or at least half of the committee must hold rank in the program offering the degree (Clemson University Graduate Announcements).” “Part-time visiting and other non-tenure track faculty employed by Clemson University and emeriti faculty may serve on the committee, but may not serve as chair. Persons not employed by the University may serve if they have been appointed to an adjunct faculty status. Part- time, visiting adjunct and other non-tenure track faculty will have full voting status on the outcomes of all examinations given by the committee. “

One of the key functions of the dissertation committee is to help the doctoral student develop the ability to integrate the various subject matter areas that provide the conceptual elements for a theoretical approach. To facilitate these functions, careful thought should be given to the composition of the committee.

To make an informed committee selection, students are encouraged to become familiar with as many of the faculty as possible during the semesters preceding that selection. This may be accomplished in a variety of ways such as enrolling in a PhD seminar and other courses, reading faculty research reports, making an appointment with a faculty member to exchange ideas or having coffee or lunch with faculty members.

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If you find that you need to make a change in the composition of your committee, there is a procedure and a form for doing so and the student should feel free pursue this option. The same procedure is used to replace committee members lost through retirement or resignation.

Major Advisor’s Responsibilities:1. Advise the student in the selection of courses in accordance with stated program direction before a doctoral committee has been formed.2. Assist the student in the selection of committee members and assume

responsibility for clarifying their roles.3. Help the student keep up-to-date with current policies, procedures and

requirements pertaining to all aspects of the program. The advisor is an important mentor concerning ethics in research and fellowships.

4. Review and approve all necessary graduate forms.5. Advise the student in preparing a draft of the dissertation plan for discussion and approval of the dissertation committee.6. Chair committee meetings for purposes of program planning, review of research proposal and final oral defense of the dissertation.7. Advise the student concerning program adjustments and assist in completing

proper forms.8. Coordinate the preparation of the comprehensive PhD examination and its administration, and follow through with the paperwork to both the student and committee members.9. Provide guidance in developing the student's research proposal, conducting the research and preparing the dissertation.10. Determine when the dissertation is satisfactory for distribution to the dissertation11. Provide support and information to the student regarding PhD Program/Institute,

and University policies.12. Help students develop professional skills: grant, paper, and research writing; participation in scholarly and public forums.13. Facilitate the student's career development: advise about career options; assist in

preparation of application materials for fellowship, grant, and other opportunities; write letters of reference and recommendations.

Doctoral Student’s Responsibilities1. Review the Graduate School website http://www.grad.clemson.edu/ and become

familiar with policies and procedures pertaining to the process of obtaining the degree. In particular, keep track of dates and deadlines for each step of the process, from choosing a major professor and establishing a committee, through procedures for the comprehensive exam, to completing the dissertation and dissertation defense.

2. Review selection of courses in accordance with the program with the major professor.

3. Work with the major advisor in selecting dissertation committee members.4. Keep up-to-date with current University and PhD program policies, procedures

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and requirements pertaining to all aspects of the program.5. In collaboration with advisor, complete the annual progress report.6. Participation in lectures, faculty presentations, brown bags, and dissertation

defense presentations is highly recommended to further your academic and professional development.

7. Submit any changes to program or committee structure on the proper forms with appropriate signatures to the graduate coordinator.

8. Prepare a program plan of study with advice from the advisor for discussion and approval of the dissertation committee.

9. Schedule dissertation committee meetings for purposes of program planning, review of research proposal, and final oral examination in defense of the dissertation.

10. Work with advisor concerning program adjustments and completing proper forms.

Choosing a Committee:Your selection of a research advisor is an important decision; it will affect the course of your graduate studies and your professional life. It is important that you have an opportunity to meet and get to know your primary advisory PRIOR TO inviting them to be your Dissertation Chair. It is suggested that you follow these steps:

1. Review the faculty research interests at http://www.clemson.edu/hehd/departments/nursing/faculty-staff/full-time/.

2. Attend the beginning of the program Orientation.3. Invite faculty for coffee or make appointments to talk with them about their

research, have a more detailed discussion and so you can determine if a two-three year partnership would be a good fit.

4. Attend the HCG Distinguished Researcher seminar which is held once a month where faculty describe their research projects. Students should make appointments to meet with these faculty for a more detailed discussion.

5. At the end of Year Two talk with the Program Coordinator about your preference, or questions you may have about a decision, and begin the process of obtaining signatures on the GS2 FORM , available on the Clemson University Graduate School website under “Forms”.

6. The Chair of the doctoral student dissertation committee has certain requirements. These include:

a. Doctoral status; b. Previous service as Co-Chair on a doctoral committee;c. Previous service as a member on a doctoral committee;d. A tenured track Ass’t/Associate Professor in the Healthcare Genetics program or a SON Assoc/Full Professor with a track record of research publications;e. Other committee members need to be in tenure track positions or in leadership positions and approved by the chair of the doctoral student dissertation committee;

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f. . Each committee is required to include at least four members; a Healthcare Genetics faculty, at least one other member from the SON, a faculty from another discipline within Clemson University and a doctoral prepared individual from outside the university in a discipline that touches on the research interest of the student.

Currently approved dissertation SON committee members include: Chair: Dr. Julie Eggert (HCG), Dr. Jane DeLuca (HCG), Dr. Mary Beth Steck

(HCG), Dr. Rosanne Pruitt and Dr. Ann Wetsel, More are approved annually so check with the program coordinator for the most up-to-date list

Member: Any of the above plus the Assoc/Full professors in the SON; Any Assoc/Full professor in a department outside the SON with the approval of your Chair.

Outside member: Any doctorally prepared individual outside of Clemson University, with your Chairs approval. To select a committee member from outside Clemson University, (HCG) read the guidelines on the website and then meet with your advisor. These individuals also need to be approved as Adjunct Faculty in the SON. This requires a submission of their Curriculum Vitae to the Tenure, Promotion and Reappointment Committee and approval by the Provost.

Other important tips to consider as you prepare your dissertation committee can be found at http:// g rads p ace.edit m e.co m /asse m blingyourcom m ittee .

Comprehensive Examination:The comprehensive examination is a major step on the way towards earning your PhD. This exam marks a transition from the more formal phase of the degree program involving coursework to the important phase of the intensive pursuit of an independent research project.

Purpose:The comprehensive examination is a University required component of the doctoral program of study. The goals of the comprehensive exam process are:

1. To demonstrate integration and synthesis across and beyond specific course content.2. To enhance professional expertise and research competency in targeted subject matter areas.3. To articulate a critical understanding of the PhD program’s mission and values, including individual family and community function within and across systems/relationships and their effect upon quality of life.4. To demonstrate professional potential through the following competencies: a. An understanding of the research process; b. The application of theory to address practical problems with diverse populations; c. The effective conceptualization and communication of complex ideas.

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Students who pass the comprehensive examination are advanced to candidacy and proceed to the dissertation. At this point the doctoral student can use the signature, “PhD(c)” or “PhD candidate” on all written communication and presentations. They may not be addressed as “Doctor” until the Dissertation has been defended, turned into the Graduate School and a notice of completion has been received.

Procedures and Preparation:At the time the plan of study is approved and the GS2 FORM is filed the student should begin planning for the comprehensive examination. For students entering with a master’s degree the date is in their third year. For students entering with a bachelor’s degree the date is the end of their fourth year. The student’s comprehensive exam committee, in discussion with the student, determines the content, process and deadlines for the exam. The exam is a combination of both written and oral presentations. The committee also establishes the criteria to pass for each aspect of the exam. These are shared with the student.

No student will take the comprehensive examination until the following requirements are fulfilled:1. Approval of the student's advisory committee has been obtained.2. The student's plan of study has been filed with the Registrar.3. The student has completed 80 percent of the course work (41 hours) in the program (excluding dissertation).

Planning for the Comprehensive Exam:Students, in consultation with the comprehensive exam committee, will complete the comprehensive planning forms and obtain necessary signatures. Forms should be as specific and complete as possible.

The PhD comprehensive exam committee and the student will discuss the comprehensive examination well in advance of the scheduled date, at a meeting of the group called for this purpose. The discussion will include the relationship of the student's goals to the examination. In addition, information will be provided regarding the general range of the standards for evaluation; the format of the exam components; the grading system to be used; how each member of the committee will be involved in grading examinations. Formats that are possible for the exam include: published articles (student is first author),critical reviews of the literature, a major grant proposal, publishable papers, an essay exam, concept development paper, or several chapters of the dissertation proposal. For oral examinations, the content areas to be covered will be identified and the length of the exam will be set. The time limitation is approximately one week for each question.

Evaluation:The written component of the exam must be submitted on time to the major advisor. The major advisor distributes the exam questions to the other committee members. The committee members have three weeks to read the exam. Each faculty committee member will independently read and evaluate the exam and will grade it as a “pass” or a “fail”. The student will be contacted regarding deficient content and will be allowed to address

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the deficient areas in the oral component of the examination.

The oral component of the comprehensive examination occurs after the student has completed the written component of the examination. The purpose of the oral exam is to test the student’s ability to integrate his or her previous experiences and knowledge gained in the doctoral program as they relate to his or her substantive papers and proposed dissertation topic. The qualifying exam also tests the students’ ability to balance opposite, yet complementary, characteristics and behaviors. These include the ability to be confident and skeptical, certain and questioning, open and defending and experiential and documenting.

During the oral examination the student is expected to summarize the answers to their written exam and address any areas that were identified as deficient. The exam usually lasts two hours. The committee evaluates the student’s performance. Each faculty member will vote for a “pass” or a “fail”. A majority of members must vote for a pass. A tie vote is considered a fail. The committee has the discretion to issue a pass with distinction.

The results of a student's performance on the comprehensive examination are recorded on a GS5 form completed by the Comprehensive Exam Committee, available on the Graduate School website. Each committee member must sign (not print or type) his or her own name and designate the area of specialization as passed or failed. The student takes the signed GS5 form to Enrolled Services and the major advisor places a copy in the student’s file.

Evaluation Categories:The committee members’ final evaluation of the written and oral examination is based on the consensus of the committee using the categories below. To advance to candidacy, the student must achieve a Pass on all components of the examination.

PASS WITH DISTINCTION, based on superior performance. PASS, acceptable performance. FAIL WITH THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REMEDIATION AND REPEAT OF THE EXAMINATION, based on fair performance in some areas and minimal or unacceptable performance in others. FAIL WITHOUT OPPORTUNITY TO REPEAT, based on minimal or unacceptable performance in almost all areas.

Students who fail the comprehensive examination may be offered the opportunity to repeat the exam. Students who are permitted to retake the examination will be allowed one and only one retake. Retakes on the comprehensive written or oral examination shall be taken within one year of a failure.

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Time Limit:Comprehensive examinations must be passed no less than 6 months and no more than 5 years prior to the date of graduation. All remaining requirements for the degree must be completed within 5 calendar years after the date of the completion of the comprehensive exam. (Clemson University Graduate School Announcements).

Dissertation and Establishing a Program of Research:The dissertation for the HCG PhD requires both preparations of manuscripts (at least 3) submitted prior to graduation (with the 3rd manuscript identified as Chapter Four) and the dissertation research started after passing comprehensive exams.*If you will be doing research with Greenville Hospital System or their affiliates you must obtain clearance. For more details, please contact Student Service Program Coordinator, Ellen Chiles achiles@clemson.edu.

Dissertation/Research Proposal:The first step is to write a dissertation proposal. For example, if an experimental or quasi- experimental study is to be conducted then the proposal includes an Introduction, Methods, Analyses, and Hypotheses/Predictions sections for each of the experiments/studies you will be conducting, as well as complete References. The format of the dissertation proposal will vary. Check with your Dissertation Committee for the guidelines for your proposal.

Put great thought into your proposal; it will be the core of your dissertation write-up. In other words, the more work you do now, the less you'll have to do later. Also, be explicit, clear, and complete, so your Dissertation Committee can fully understand your proposed project and can then properly advise you. The ultimate goal is for you to prepare a dissertation that eventually leads to an article that will be published in one of the major scientific journals in your field.

Your Dissertation Committee approves your dissertation proposal at your proposal defense meeting. Take a copy of the Doctoral Level Approval of Dissertation Proposal form so it can be filled out at the meeting. This form should be filed with the Doctoral Coordinator.

Manuscript Development:In the HCG doctoral program it is expected that the student will develop and submit at least three manuscripts prior to graduation. These will include at least a topic-focused problem, review of the literature, and at least one describing the research and results of the “dissertation” project.

After the student has passed the comprehensive examination, the dissertation proposal has been approved and Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval is granted, work on the dissertation can proceed. This work is coordinated by the major advisor/dissertation chair, but each member of the dissertation committee should participate in the ongoing process since they all must approve the finished draft of the dissertation.

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The structure and content of the dissertation is one of the most critical matters that will be decided between you and your advisor (with the input from your Dissertation Committee). You also might find it helpful to develop a dissertation support group with other students. The formatting guide for dissertations is the most recent edition of Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. After the dissertation chair indicates that the dissertation is acceptable for examination, the student must submit copies of the dissertation and abstract for distribution to the committee members, and any appointed examiner. The dissertation must be in completed form, with finished diagrams, etc. Faculty must have a minimum of two weeks to review the student's work.

Requirements for the Healthcare Genetics Article-Style Format for Dissertation (ASFD)Purpose: researchThe Healthcare Genetics doctoral program faculty support the article-style format for dissertation (ASFD). After discussion it was determined that the ASFD met an additional goal for the student to graduate from the PhD program with multiple publications in addition to the traditional dissertation research project with written description. It is believed this provides the student with a better foundation for research program development after graduation and experience with manuscript development and the submission process.

These guidelines are intended to help the HCG doctoral students, their advisors and committee to determine and share the expectations for the ASFD. The shared ASFD format expectations will ensure consistency among faculty and students from cohort to cohort in order to aid in facilitating the quality of ASFD from the HCG doctoral program over time.

These guidelines are based on a collection of similar documents provided by other institutions and those provided by the Clemson University Graduate School at http://www.grad.clemson.edu/Manuscript/format.php?PHPSESSID=6qoeffvcf0g953kv1mdr2ca800.

General Guidelines

1. The ASFD should consist of three full-length manuscripts that have been published or submitted for review to three peer-reviewed journals prior to the dissertation defense date.

2. The articles incorporated into the ASFD must be based on work completed while the student is enrolled at Clemson University.

3. Each manuscript/publication is required to be approved by the dissertation committee as a final component of the ASFD.

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4. The dissertation must be the student’s original idea. 5. The dissertation can be embargoed until article submitted or reviewed to protect

the copyrights and patent rights of the student. See http://www.grad.clemson.edu/manuscript/upload.php for more detailed information.

6. There shall be a coherent topic or common theme among the publications, as defined by the student and finally approved by the dissertation committee.

7. The student should be the lead author on all three articles/manuscript submissions presented as part of the ASFD. However, if the peer-reviewed journal has other requirements for publication (such as a terminal degree) the dissertation committee be the final determinant regarding appropriateness of the paper for incorporation into the ASFD.

8. If an article/manuscript is multi-authored, the student needs to justify or clarify the contributions of the other authors in relationship to the research project. These could include origin of the research idea, concept and design, data collection, analysis and interpretation of the data and other significant areas of contribution requiring other types of information specialty.

9. It is expected that the major advisor of the doctoral committee will be involved in every aspect of the dissertation.

Suggested ASFD Overall Format:

PRELIMINARY PAGES

Title page

Copyright - If the material in any chapter has been published, the student must obtain a letter of permission from the publisher allowing the student to use the work in the dissertation. Doctoral students should inform the publisher that ProQuest Learning and Information Company will microform the dissertation and that copies of the dissertation will be sold on demand. A copy of the letter must be provided to the Graduate School Office. In addition, proper credit (as instructed in the letter of permission) must be given in the text.

Abstract - Include only one all-inclusive abstract. This should be a description of how the various articles/manuscripts have been weaved together. It should include “connecting language to bridge each study to the next” with a “collective meaning” and “combined contribution” to the field of study presented as a coherent body of work.

If abstracts are provided with the other two papers (Chapter Two and Three), they should have the title of “overview”.

Abbreviations - Include for the complete document.

Acknowledgements for all chapters

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Dedication

Table of Contents - Subheadings from the separate articles should not be included; do include the subheadings from the introductory and summary sections.

List of Tables - Include for the complete document.

List of Figures - Include for the complete document.

MAIN BODY

Chapter 1: Introduction—The function of the introduction is to weave the various articles/manuscripts together. It should describe, for the reader, their “collective meaning” and “combined contribution” to the field of study. This chapter should include:

1. Statement of the problem2. Significance of the problem3. Theoretical framework supporting the primary dissertation problem/issue4. An overview of the important literature (Each article/manuscript will have its

own unique literature review)5. Research questions/hypotheses as they relate to each article/submission 6. Methodology used to answer those questions as they relate to each

article/submission

Chapter Two: First Article

1. Article/manuscript with subheadings and references for Chapter Two in format required by the peer-reviewed journal to which the paper was submitted or published

2. Appendices

Chapter Three: Second Article

1. Article/manuscript with subheadings and references for Chapter Three in format required by the peer-reviewed journal to which the paper was submitted or published

2. Appendices

Chapter Four: Third Article - This is the dissertation research. It is expected this will be submitted to a peer-reviewed research journal to be approved by the chair of the dissertation committee

1. Manuscript with references in format required by the peer-reviewed research journal to which the paper was submitted or published

2. Appendices

Chapter Five: Conclusion - 1. Summarize (from the three papers) the dissertation’s main findings,

limitations, discussion and recommendations.

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2. Present and discuss the similarities and differences between the three separate articles/manuscripts.

3. Present the papers as a coherent body of work. 4. Explain how this dissertation makes a contribution to knowledge regarding the

problem and the specialty area of healthcare genetics. 5. Present/discuss the knowledge gaps from the three papers. 6. Describe an agenda for future research, based upon the dissertation work.

References - Included from Chapters One and Five.

Appendices - Additional pieces that relate to the manuscript as a whole

The Dissertation Defense:The dissertation defense is a University-required component of the doctoral program of study. Defending one's research is a fundamental facet of scientific scholarship. It is through this process that the student clarifies, validates, and demonstrates the significance of his or her research. As such, the oral defense represents the culmination of the matriculation process.

The dissertation should be distributed to the members of the Dissertation Committee at least two weeks prior to the final oral defense, regardless of circumstances. If there are corrections, they must be available at least one week before the final oral defense. The final oral defense is usually a discussion of the research carried out in the dissertation, including the theory and literature upon which it was based; however, questions may be asked about the field that extends beyond the specific subject matter of the dissertation.To ensure fairness in the examination procedure and maintenance of academic standards, the program coordinator may appoint an outside member to the examining committee. The outside member of the committee will read and critique the dissertation, will participate in the oral part of the exam, and will submit a report to the HCG Program Coordinator.

Scheduling the Dissertation Defense:The student must be registered during the semester in which the defense examination is taken. This should allow time for the members of the committee to review and evaluate the dissertation before the examination, and also allow sufficient time after the examination for the student to revise and submit the unbound dissertation to the Office of The Graduate School before the specified deadline date.

Please forward your announcement to Lavonne Sloop at lsloop@clemson.edu and Eartha White at weartha@clemson.edu.

Evaluation:The final oral examination in defense of the dissertation will be conducted and evaluated by the dissertation committee and outside member, should one be appointed. All faculty members on the committee should be present for the defense. No defense should be scheduled when a member of the committee cannot attend. The dissertation defense is

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open to the academic community. The Program Coordinator is invited to attend. Other interested faculty members may attend the examination without vote. Students also are strongly encouraged to announce their orals for presentation to other graduate students. The dissertation and the student's performance on the final oral examination must be approved by a positive vote by at least three-fourths of the voting examiners, and with not more than one dissenting vote from among the dissertation committeeDissertation Defense Evaluation Rubric: HCG Doctoral Student Learning Outcome Assessment

Title of Dissertation:

Date of Defense:

Learning Outcome Expectation Does not meet expectations (unacceptable)

Meets expectations (acceptable)

Exceeds expectations (outstanding)

Knowledge and skills 3.99 (<80%)

or lower

4-4.49

(80%-<90%)

4.5-5

(90-100%)

Theory or framework Appropriate for hypotheses and able to guide the research

Literature review Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of current research in field

Hypothesis/objectives Generates viable research question and a testable hypothesis

Research methods Applies appropriate research methods to address hypothesis

Communication 3.99 (<80%)

or lower

4-4.49

(80%-<90%)

4.5-5

(90-100%)

Writing Dissertation is clearly written and communicates high level material well to the reader

Oral explanations Oral explanations are clear and succinct

Format of dissertation Dissertation requires no or minimal changes to be acceptable to the

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institution

Critical thinking 3.99 (<80%)

or lower

4-4.49

(80%-<90%)

4.5-5

(90-100%)

Analysis of data Analyses relate to conceptual framework

Interpretation of results Interpretation justified, not over or under-drawn

Conclusions Justified, based on appropriate statistics

Ethical research 3.99 (<80%)

or lower

4-4.49

(80%-<90%)

4.5-5

(90-100%)

Required classes complete

B or better earned in each

Appropriate certifications Biosafety, IRB, etc documented

Copyrights Included as needed

Evidence of original work

Literature search supports that research is original

Appropriate citations No evidence of plagiarism

Completion:After the dissertation committee members have reviewed and approved the dissertation and after the student has passed the final oral examination in defense, the student must incorporate into the dissertation any recommended changes and corrections before presenting it to the major professor for final review and signature on a title page.

The student and his/her adviser also must submit a signed GS7D form to Enrolled Services regarding successful passage of the defense with date and names of committee members present at the defense. Once all requirements are completed, final approval on the graduate student form for graduation must be obtained from the Chair.

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+

V. Taking Care of Yourself

For graduate students, taking care of yourself means being able to balance your academic life with your physical, emotional and spiritual needs. While you are in graduate school,it is important that you eat healthy foods, exercise, rest, find effective ways to deal with stress, and feel connected to your community. This section will highlight some opportunities to live a balanced life during graduate school.

Health Services:University Health Services are provided at the Redfern Health Center. Students do not have to worry about spending too much money on basic health services. Most of the costs are covered by your health insurance. The following services are provided by Redfern:

• Routine health care, medical treatment of injuries and illness, flu and allergy shots, and travel check-ups• Counseling for stress reduction, smoking cessation, nutrition• Counseling and psychological services• Relationship and sexual violence services• Laboratory, pharmacy and radiology services• Women’s clinic

The appointment line for medical services is 656-1541. For counseling and psychological services, the number is 656-2451.

Additional health education and health services are provided at the Sullivan Center in 101Edwards Hall (656-3076). Nurse practitioners are the primary providers and they offer health risk appraisals (physical exam, cholesterol screening, blood chemistry profile and hemogram), health management and sick care, and immunizations. Your family members are welcome to use the health services at the Sullivan Center. Their charges for services are much lower than local physicians. Go to their website for more information about services and prices (http://virtual.cle m son.edu/groups/wellnes s ).

Health Insurance:The University provides a student health insurance plan. For more information about the policy go to: http://www.studenthealthinsurance.c o m .

Disability Services:If you have a diagnosed physical, mental or learning disability, contact the Office of

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Disability Services for information and help. They are located in G-4 in the Redfern Health Center (656-6848).

Working at Clemson University and the School of Nursing:Some doctoral students in the HCG PhD program may be employed with Graduate Assistantships. These can be either teaching or research focused. Students supported on assistantships receive a stipend to assist with living expenses while the student pursues his/her degree. Students on assistantships usually receive a tuition waiver while taking 9-12 hours of graduate courses.

Students who hold assistantships experience educational and professional benefits. The responsibilities and benefits of assistantships vary, but, in general, students gain further instruction in techniques in their fields, hone evaluation, and have collegial collaboration with advisors that may result in joint publications.

Assistantships (GTA or GRA) may be terminated by the School of Nursing for poor performance, failure to meet academic requirements (GPA or credit hours) and/or due to a lack of funding. Every effort should be made to give adequate notice if you are terminating the assistantship. Read the Graduate Announcements section on assistantships for more information.

Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA):Stipends are set according to the policy of the School of Nursing. These positions come from training grants or university funds. The students have multiple teaching roles that might be assigned such as classroom assistant for faculty, clinical settings or web development in the School of Nursing and other interdisciplinary programs.

Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA):Graduate research assistantships provide graduate students with financial resources necessary to complete their degrees while learning the skills of actively participating on a research team. Funds for research assistantships come from faculty research grants or the university. These will fluctuate depending on faculty funding. A graduate student is assigned to work for a professor on a research project and, while doing so, is supported as a Graduate Research Assistant (GRA).

For research assistants, there is a distinction between activities that contribute directly to the student’s research or academic career, and activities that contribute primarily to the scholarship of others.

The first distinction affects GRAs whose dissertation research is related to the research project they are assigned to as a GRA. Students and faculty will be co-authors on publications that result from the faculty’s research. However, the student’s dissertation project must be independent research that is conceptualized by the student . For

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example, the student develops a new way of conceptualizing and analyzing existing data, or administers a new questionnaire to subjects in the ongoing research. Research assistants commonly devote many hours to such activities, and it is extremely difficult to separate out the number of hours spent “on the assistantship” and the number of hours spent on the student’s project. GRAs in this category should understand clearly the faculty supervisor’s publication and intellectual ownership policies, and any changes throughout the association should be communicated to the student.

In the second distinction of research assistants have duties which support the research of the faculty. Their work on the assistantship is u n rel a ted to t h eir d i sse r t a t ion work . Students may or may not be invited to participate as authors of publications or presentations. The GRAs who have these appointments may spend up to 20 hours per week on assistantship activities, depending on the time negotiated with the faculty, over the course of their appointments.

The duties of a GRA will be provided by the professor in charge of the project. Each graduate research assistant will clarify with their research supervisor the responsibilities and duties regarding the research. The student’s performance is reviewed at the end of each semester. Graduate Research Assistantships are 12- month appointments. Assistantships are assigned on a year-to-year basis. Renewal is at the discretion of the School of Nursing.

The research supervisor will provide an orientation regarding the research project. Other project staff members are also available to assist. Graduate students will find that the faculty is busy with teaching, research, meeting grants deadlines and funders expectations. GRAs must learn to ask for assistance when needed. However, as the student becomes more experienced, he or she is expected to become more self- directed.

Graduate School Policies:The Clemson University Graduate School can be reached at: 864-656-4172, http://www.grad.clemson.edu/. All appointments for assistantships must be processed on the Graduate Assistantship Tuition Remission form. The School of Nursing budget officer (located on the 5th floor of Edwards Hall) will complete all payroll forms for the GTA appointment. A minimum enrollment is required for appointment as a graduate assistant.

Academic year, minimum is nine semester hours for all graduate assistants.

Minimum enrollment in the summer sessions is three semester hours per session.

Undergraduate credits may be included in the minimum, provided they are relevant to the student’s degree program and approved by the advisory committee.

Payroll and Paydays:

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If you are at GTA/GRA ensure that you are set up on the payroll (See Budget Officer 5th Floor, Edwards Hall). The tuition waiver that accompanies the research assistant is not taxable. Assistantship stipends are taxable, and state and federal taxes are withheld from stipends. International students should make an appointment to meet with Mack Howard in the International Affairs Office (303 E Martin) to discuss their taxes. The United States has different tax treaties with different countries, so the amount of taxes varies. Mack Howard provides free assistance to help International students in completing tax forms. Make your appointment well in advance of the April 15th deadline.

All Clemson University employees are paid per policy. The Nursing budget employee, located on the 5th floor of Edwards Hall, can inform you of the payday schedule. If you have questions about the amount of a check please discuss this with the budget employee.

Holidays and Personal Leave:University Holidays Number of Days PaidNew Year’s Day 1Martin Luther King Day 1Spring Break Day 1Independence Day Day 1Fall Break Day 1Thanksgiving Day 2Christmas Day 4Optional Holiday Day 1

Graduate students are entitled to take as holidays the days on which the University is officially closed. The Human Resources website lists specific holiday dates (http://www.clemson.edu/employment/benefits/holiday.html ).

Leave Without Pay:Graduate students with nine-month or 12-month graduate teaching assistantship appointments work on the same calendar as faculty with nine-month or 12-month appointments, respectively. Duties over holiday periods for graduate research assistantship appointments should be agreed upon in writing by the student and the faculty advisor in charge of the research program.

Graduate assistants may request up to four weeks of leave without pay per semester and one week of leave without pay per summer session for illness or death of a close family member, and personal illness or hardship. If leave is not approved by the administrator of the graduate assistantship, the graduate assistant may petition the Graduate School for approval.

A graduate assistant is eligible for up to six weeks of maternity leave without pay. The request for maternity leave must be made to the department at least one month in advance (Clemson University Graduate Announcements).

Outside Employment:One of the purposes of research assistantships is to support the student’s living expenses

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during his or her graduate studies. Therefore, it is the policy of the School of Nursing to discourage students from outside employment if the assistantship is a full- time appointment of 20 hours per week. Exceptions to this policy are temporary consulting and/or tutoring jobs. Federal law does not permit international students to work off- campus.Area Health Centers and Hospitals:

Clemson Health Center (AnMed Health & Oconee Memorial Hospital)885 Tiger Blvd (Hwy 123) Clemson, SC864-654-6800This facility provides primary care and diagnostic services. They also have an Urgent Care Center (no appointment needed) that is open on weekdays and on Saturday (10 am to 6pm) and on Sunday (1 pm to 6 pm).

Clemson Ophthalmology931 Tiger BlvdClemson, SC864-654-6706This office has both a Board Certified Eye surgeon and an Optometrist. Oconee

Oconee Medical Center298 Memorial Drive (Hwy 123)Seneca, SC864-882-3351 http://www.oconeemed.org/ This is hospital is 7 miles from Clemson University and has an Emergency Center.

AnMed HealthAnMed Health Medical Center Campus800 N. Fant StreetAnderson, SC800-825-6688 www.a n m e d health.org This hospital is located 17 miles from Clemson University. This hospital has anEmergency Center.

Greenville Hospital System University Medical CenterGreenville Memorial Medical Campus701 Grove Rd. Greenville, SC864-455-7000 http://www.ghs.orgThe Institute’s Strong Communities project works with Greenville Hospital Pediatric, Family and OB Primary Care Services staff. The Medical Campus has many specialty centers as well as a Level 1 Emergency Trauma Center. The Greenville Memorial Medical Campus is located about 40 miles from Clemson.

Staying Healthy:We all enjoy eating, and as a graduate student there is a temptation to skip meals or just

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grab a slice of pizza. As a graduate student with a busy research and class schedule, it is important to eat right. Try to eat a variety of whole grains, vegetables, fish and chicken, lean meats and low-fat or fat free dairy products. Also, the size and portion should be considered when consuming food. Bring your meal to campus and warm it up in the microwave rather than eating junk food from the vending machine.

Exercise:Exercising is a great way to reduce stress, anxiety, depression and, of course, maintain your health. Clemson offers many opportunities for exercise. Use the Fike Recreation Center. Besides the pool, walking track, weights and exercise machines, they offer a variety of exercise and recreation classes. Many students also walk or jog around campus. The South Carolina Botanical Gardens has a number of trails, and there is a great trail across the earthen dike that begins at the Madren Center.

The Upstate of South Carolina offers white water rafting, kayaking, swimming, boating and fishing in the numerous lakes and rivers. Hiking or biking opportunities are plentiful with our scenic mountain trails and winding country roads. You can also explore small towns, visit museums and Native American exhibits, attend local festivals and explore plantations. Take a break from your studies and research and enjoy an outdoor activity. The following websites provide information about the Upstate and South Carolina:

http://www.theupstate.com http:// d isco v ersouth c ar ol ina.com

http://www.upstatescusa.com

As you get involved in your graduate program and research, it becomes harder to make time for exercise. Make exercise a priority. Staying healthy and establishing healthy habits are as important as studying. Find an activity that you enjoy and you will stick with it for a lifetime.

Stress and Coping:Graduate School can be a stressful experience. Fellow classmates and your advisor are important sources of support, but sometimes you need professional help. Clemson’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides free short-term counseling. Call for an appointment at 864-656-2451. There is also free 24 National Graduate Student Crisis Line 1-877-GRAD-HLP (472-3457). Find coping strategies to help you manage the challenges of graduate school. Remember to keep things in perspective and maintain a balance between work and life.

Spirituality:Graduate school provides the opportunity to learn more about your faith, values and beliefs. Get to know those who share your beliefs as well as those who do not. The campus phone directory lists “Campus Ministries to Students”. Louis Bregger in the Gantt Intercultural Center can also help you make contact with religious/spiritual leaders (864-656-0437).

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Campus Safety:Is this campus safe? In relative terms, yes, it is. There is very little violent crime (assaults, robberies, rape) in Clemson or on campus. The most common crime on campus is theft, especially computers. This is a beautiful campus located in a rural area, but that does not mean we are immune from crime. Here are some basic precautions:

Housing/Campus: Lock your doors, both at home and when you leave work at night. It is also good to lock your office door whenever you are gone—even for a few moments. The staff leaves at 4:30 PM, and by 8:00 PM the P & A building is pretty empty. You will find some graduate students and faculty working late, and the housekeeping staff arrives around 11:00 PM. When working after hours in the P &A building, it is a good idea to keep your door locked. If you are leaving late and want an escort to your car or the bus stop call the campus police at 864-656-2222.

Personal Information:Keep your identification close to you at all times. Do not lend your passwords, pin numbers or credit cards to anyone. If someone takes your credit cards or ID notify the police and credit card companies immediately.

Parking:Park your car in well-lit areas especially if you are working late at night. If you know you will be working late, after 4:30 PM move your car closer to the building. Have your keys ready when you leave the building.

Walking/Hiking:Let people know where you are going and when you plan to return. Walk/hike with a buddy. Be careful crossing the street. It is not the custom in South Carolina to stop for people crossing the street unless there is a crosswalk.

Drinking:Use good sense when consuming alcohol. Take the CAT bus service if you imbibe too much. Drinking on campus is permitted only in a few designated areas. If you desire counseling related to alcohol use contact Arthur Logan at 864-656-2451.

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VI. Funding Your Graduate EducationAs you pursue your PhD at Clemson University, it is likely that one of your concerns is how to fund your students and cover your living expenses. Take an active role in securing funds for your doctoral education. You are expected to submit a proposal for external funding during your third or fourth year. Use the internet to investigate funding options. Apply for sources of external support and do not overlook small funding ($200 to $1,500) options. These awards might cover books and supplies, travel to a conference, or support dissertation activities.

The following list identifies some of the sources of funding. Additional information will be provided in the sections that follow.

Personal funds-yours, your family’s or a benefactor’s.Loans-credit union, bank, federal student loan programsFellowships from CU sources, Graduate SchoolTeaching AssistantshipResearch AssistantshipEmployment on campusEmployment off campusAwards from extramural funding sourcesConference travel funds (Graduate Student Government)

You are strongly encouraged to seek external funding. If you receive an award from an extramural funding source, this provides significant advantages. It will have an impact when you submit funding proposals in the future and ultimately in your job search, especially if you are likely to seek employment at an educational institution, a public service organization, or a non-profit agency.

Financial Aid Loans This option initially requires less effort and initiative, but eventually is more painful. When you have completed your degree program, or if you choose not to continue your education, you will be obligated to begin repaying your loans. In addition, there is a maximum amount that you can obtain from any source. It is important that you exercise caution so you will not have an excessive amount of loans to repay.

If you are considering a loan, consult with the Office of Financial Aid (Sikes Hall) to obtain information about the loan process.

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To qualify for financial aid, a student must meet the following criteria: Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible non-citizen Enrolled at CU in a degree-seeking program. The only non-degree graduate

students who can receive federal loans are those pursuing a teaching certificate. Making satisfactory progress in completing a degree program, according to U.S. standards. Enrollment is required, and the loan amount available depends on whether it is

full time or part time. Not be in default on any federal educational loan. Not owe a refund on any federal educational grant.

Loan ProgramsSome programs such as the Pell Grant which support undergraduate students, are not available to graduate students. The options for graduate students and specific criteria are outlined below. If you are an international graduate student, you cannot receive support from federal loan programs, but you do qualify for Graduate School fellowships and for many extramural funding programs. For any of the following options, graduate students must complete the FAFSA Form to determine how much they may receive.

Per the Clemson University Financial Aid Website http://www.clemson.edu/financial-aid/types/loans/stafford.html the following information is available regarding Federal Loans

Federal Direct Loans are available for both undergraduate and graduate borrowers. A student must be enrolled in at least a half-time status (six hours for undergraduate; five hours for graduate) in order to receive a Direct Loan. Loan repayment begins six months after graduation or departure from school.

An unsubsidized Direct Loan is not awarded on the basis of financial need. You will be charged interest on the loan from the time of the first disbursement until it is paid in full. If you allow the interest to accrue (accumulate) while you are in school (or during other periods of nonpayment), it will be capitalized. This means the interest will be added to the original principal amount of your loan, and additional interest will be based on the higher amount. Making interest-only payments while in school will result in a lower amount repaid in the long run.

Loan AmountsThe maximum amount you can borrow each academic year depends on your grade level and dependency status. Graduate students can obtain a yearly amount of $20,500 (all unsubsidized) and can obtain a lifetime borrowing limit of $138,000 (All unsubsidized).

Other Employment OpportunitiesAdditional hourly employment opportunities exist on campus. Aramark Food Service needs part time help to cater banquets and help with meal service on campus (meal and pay). The Clemson University Police Department hires security personnel for special events such as concerts and basketball games. The University also maintains Tiger Pool.

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Departments call Tiger Pool to request hourly help such as typing. Self-employment is also an option that many graduate students choose because it allows flexibility in their schedules. There is a demand for tutoring from undergraduate students. Other options include house sitting for faculty and staff or reading documents onto tapes for disabled students (contact Disability Services).

Funding from Extramural Sources

There are many funding sources from external organizations that support graduate students in their doctoral studies. When you begin to search for a position, you will have a tremendous advantage if you can demonstrate that you have experience with submitting funding proposals to external sources. Increasingly today, position descriptions appear with the words ―grant-writing experience‖ as either a required or preferred skill. In addition, if you have received an award from a nationally competitive program, your subsequent proposals will be considered more favorably. While you are a graduate student, you are in an optimal position to learn the process of writing funding proposals, a position that is unlikely you will ever experience again. Your academic advisor, research supervisor and your peers are here to review your proposals. The graduate school, colleges and the PhD program hold seminars and workshops to help with proposal writing. Three sources of extramural funding are described below. Other sources are available on the PhD program website.

The National Research Service Award (NRSA)

The National Research Service Award (NRSA) http://grants.nih.gov/training/nrsa.htm from NIH is a common avenue obtaining your own funding. The individual NRSA is a small grant application, similar to the R01s that Principal Investigators write to support their lab, except the scope is much smaller and you don't have to write a detailed budget. Its primary purpose is to ensure the training of independent research scientists to carry out the nation’s biomedical and behavioral research agenda. The NIH awards individual NRSAs to the most promising applicants to support their full-time research training. Tuition and fees are covered. In addition, there is an institutional allowance that can pay for health insurance, travel to meetings, research supplies, books, etc. ELIGIBILITY: All applicants must be US citizens or non-citizen nationals Predoctoral (F31) - Must have baccalaureate degree and be enrolled in a PhDprogram. All NIH institutes will accept applications from minority and disabled students (see Program Announcement) - Receipt dates are May 1st and November 1st. Four of the institutes award F31s to other graduate students: • NIMH - National Institute of Mental Health • NIAAA - National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism • NIDA - National Institute on Drug Abuse • NINR - National Institute of Nursing Research If you are a graduate student who is not a minority or disabled, you can apply to any of these four institutes. Ensure that your project is relevant to the mission of the institute.

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Fulbright Program

The primary aim of the Fulbright Program is further mutual understanding between people of the United States and other countries. Fulbright Awards are available to U.S. graduate students and non-U.S students. All fields of study are acceptable, unless otherwise stated in the Individual Country Summaries. http://eca.state.gov/fulbright What does the grant cover? Both US Students and Non US Students can apply for this program if the requirements are met. At a minimum, Fulbright grants provide funds for international transportation, a living stipend, a small book/research allowance, and medical insurance. Some countries will also provide tuition assistance, a small dependent’s allowance, a pre-departure or in- country orientation, or other grant enhancements.

Area Studies / FellowshipsGerman Academic Exchange Service Study scholarships are awarded to highly qualified graduate students of all disciplines to provide the opportunity to study in Germany. Applicants should be US or Canadian citizens. Foreign nationals must have studied at an accredited US or Canadian university for at least two years. Applicants should have a good command of German. Scholarships support area studies, research and summer language courses https://www.daad.org/

TIAA-CREF Research Fellowship Fellowships are awarded based on evaluation of submissions by an objective panel of judges. Candidates must register online prior to submission. https://www.tiaa-crefinstitute.org/public/institute

American Association of University Women There are two fellowships of interest. The International Fellowships are awarded for research to women who are not United States citizens or permanent residents. American Fellowships support women doctoral candidates completing dissertations. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Candidates are evaluated on the basis of scholarly excellence, teaching experience, and active commitment to helping women and girls through service in their communities, professions, or fields of research. http://www.aauw.org/

Council of American Overseas Research Centers This program is open to U.S. doctoral candidates and scholars who have already earned their PhD in fields in the humanities, social sciences, or natural sciences and wish to conduct research of regional or trans-regional significance. Fellowships require scholars

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to conduct research in more than one country, at least one of which hosts a participating overseas research center: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Cyprus, Egypt, Greece, India, Iran, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Mexico, Morocco, Pakistan, Senegal/West Africa, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, Turkey, West Bank/Gaza Strip and Yemen. Approximately 10 awards of up to $9000 are made each year. Doctoral candidates must be ABD. http://caorc.org/

German Exchange Service Research grants are awarded to highly qualified PhD candidates. Eligibility requirements are the same as those for area studies awards. In addition, applicants must have a well- defined research project that makes a stay in Germany essential. Preference will be given to applicants who have been invited by a faculty member at a German university to do research with a specific department. http://www.daad.org

Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation The foundation welcomes proposals from any of the natural or social sciences and humanities that promise to increase understanding of the causes, manifestations, and control of violence, aggression and dominance. Highest priority is given to research that can increase understanding and amelioration of urgent problems of violence, aggression, and dominance in the modern world. Funding is only for the final year of PhD work and is to support the writing of the dissertation. Applicants may be citizens of any country. http://hfg.org/

Social Science Research Council This Council offers a number of research fellowships for graduate students. This includes a Dissertation Proposal Development Fellowship (60 awards), Eurasia Title VII Fellowships, International Dissertation Research Fellowship (50 awards), and Japan Studies Dissertation Workshop. The web site also includes a section on ―The Art of Writing Proposals. See the web site for more details http://www.ssrc.org/ Spencer Foundation Dissertation Fellowship Program The Dissertation Fellowship Program seeks to encourage a new generation of scholars from a wide range of disciplines and professional fields to undertake research relevant to the improvement of education. These $25,000 fellowships support individuals whose dissertations show potential for bringing fresh and constructive perspectives to the history, theory, or practice of formal or informal education anywhere in the world. Applicants need not be citizens of the United States, but must be candidates for the doctoral degree at a graduate school within the United States. The fellowships support the final analysis of the research topic and the writing of the dissertation. http://www.spencer.org/content.cfm/fellowship-awards

Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation As one of the fellowships offered through this foundation http://woodrow.org/, the Charlotte W. Newcombe Dissertation Fellowships are designed to encourage original significant study of ethical or religious values in all fields of the humanities and social sciences, and particularly to help PhD candidates in these fields complete their dissertation work. In addition to topics in religious studies or in ethics (philosophical or

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religious), dissertations appropriate to the Newcombe Fellowship competition might explore the ethical implications of foreign policy, the values influencing political decisions, the moral codes of other countries, and religious or ethical issues reflected in history or literature. Approximately 30 awards are made each year. The Woodrow Wilson Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship in Women’s Studies encourages original and significant research about women that crosses disciplinary, regional, or

cultural boundaries. Previous Fellows have explored such topics as women’s roles in African-American adult literacy, militarism and the education of women, the influence of grassroots entrepreneurship on gender roles in India, the evolution of women’s movements in Eastern Europe after the Cold War, and the dynamics of employment and childbearing. Seven awards are made each year.

P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship Fund The International Peace Scholarship Fund is a program that provides scholarships for selected women from other countries for graduate study in the United States and Canada. The applicant must be a full time student graduate student. To qualify for her first scholarship, an applicant must have a full year of course work remaining and enrolled on campus for the entire school year. Scholarships are not awarded for research, internships, practical training or travel. Doctoral students who have completed coursework and are working on dissertations only are not eligible as first time applicants. Awards are for up to $8000.

http://www.peointernational.org/sites/www.peointernational.org/files/content/ips-info-card_updates.2012.02.24.pdf

Robert Bosch Foundation Fellowship Program The program provides young American professionals (ages 23-34) with two high level- work placements in federal government and the private sector in Germany. Ideal candidates have a Master’s degree or JD, professional experience in one of the application fields (business administration, economics, law, mass communications, public policy or political science), outstanding academic records, a genuine interest in Germany and Europe, and active involvement in community affairs or public affairs. No German language skills are required at the time of application. Intensive language training is provided prior to program start. Applications are due around October 15 each year. 20 fellowships are awarded

http://culturalvistas.org/programs-for-students-and-professionals/professional-fellowships/robert-bosch-foundation-fellowship-program

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Timeline Schedule for Doctoral Students

All forms are available at http://www.clemson.edu/graduate/students/forms.html

Fall I

GS2 Form completed by student and signed by Program Coordinator at program orientation.

Submit to the Registrar. Introduce yourself to faculty and get to know them as potential members of your

dissertation committee.Fall II-Spring II

Identify Dissertation Committee Chair Discuss potential members with Chair and extend invitations to the identified

Committee members.

Fall II-Fall III

Upon completion of 41 hours the student is eligible for the Comprehensive Exam. Meet with Chair to identify dates and discuss procedure/process of the

examination. GS2 Form revised with final courses determined and form signed by Chair &

Committee members. ***Good to have signed after COMPS to make certain that required courses identified by the Dissertation Committee, to be completed prior to graduation are included.

Obtain signatures for the GS5D Form from the doctoral committee, upon successful completion of the doctoral degree comprehensive examination.

Begin dissertation research only after successful completion of the comprehensive exam.

End of Program

Apply for graduation through your iROAR account. Defense Schedule Notice submitted to Graduate School at least two weeks prior

to defense. Place flyers throughout Edwards Hall, announcing Defense including student

name, date and place with Title of dissertation, at least two weeks prior to defense date.

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GS7D Dissertation defense and approval form signed by Chair & Committee then turned in to Registrar prior to deadline.

Attend graduation.

FREQUENTLY CALLED NUMBERS (all numbers are 864 area code)

School of Nursing Numbers

Assoc. Dean/Director, School of Nursing Dr. Katherine Valentine656-7622PhD Program Coordinator Dr. Julie Eggert 656-7938Student Services Program Coordinator Ellen B. Chiles, M.Ed 250-8881Admin Assistant, Clinical Coordinator Cynthia Mihalchick 250-6701Nursing UCG fax 250-6711

University Center/Greenville Tech NumbersUCG Main Line 250-1111UCG Library 250-8901UCG Nursing FAX 250-6711McAlister Square Mall Assistance 250-8111 (UCG) Public Safety 250-8150

Important Clemson Campus NumbersClemson University Grad School 656-3195Athletic Department 656-2114Campus Bookstore Mike Namaranian 656-2050Campus Library+656-5185Computer Help Desk 656-3494Student Financial Services (Payment questions)

656-3311Enrolled Student Services 656-2174

IMPORTANT WEB SITESClemson Main Student Site: http://www.clemson.edu/students

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Student Financial Services: http://www.clemson.edu/cfo/student-financials/index.html

Clemson Computing & Information Technology: http://ccit.clemson.edu

Financial Aid: http://www.clemson.edu/financial-aid/

iROAR: https://casauth.clemson.edu/

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