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of Teaching and Training Practicum is to provide students with the opportunity to be a
teaching assistant or gain specialized experience in training. The purpose of Practicum I
and II is to provide students with opportunities to enhance their conflict resolution practice
skills. Students are encouraged to consult with the Practicum Coordinator in order to
determine which sequence would best fit their career goals.
Practicum placements have been established in an array of settings, such as schools,
prisons, court systems, parks, human services agencies, community organizations and
corporations. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore and initiate a Practicum
setting specific to their own individual interests. If a student finds an appropriate site, the
Practicum Coordinator will assist the student in calling the site and negotiating for a
placement.
Please consult the Practicum Coordinator for detailed information. During each term and at
every Residential Institute, one or more Practicum Advising sessions are scheduled.
Students who have not yet registered for practicum courses are encouraged to attend one
or more sessions. Students may also seek individual in-person or telephonic appointments
with the Practicum Coordinator for assistance with practicum placements.
Students should visit
for the Practicum
Handbook and related forms.
Examinations and Evaluations
There are two program evaluations that students must pass in the course of their doctoral
studies. Each is described briefly below and more information is provided at
I. Preliminary Review
The Preliminary Review takes place after an accumulation of at least 18-24 credits. The
focus of the preliminary review is to determine whether the student should continue in the
doctoral program. In advance of the preliminary review, the student must complete the
required activities included on the DCAR PhD Passport, which is provided at the start of the
student’s first term. Prior to the preliminary review interview, the student will submit
specified materials for review, including but not limited to sample term papers, a CV, and
a reflection form.
The preliminary review meeting is an approximately 30 minute discussion between the
student and a DCAR administrator. Successes and challenges will be discussed. These
discussions will include a review of grades and any other relevant behavioral or
performance-based issues reported by faculty, students, or the administrative staff.
Students should come prepared to discuss what they have learned, how they are applying
it in their work, dissertation preparation or relevant practice areas.
Students with a “C” in any class during the first year will remain on preliminary review
status, and may be required to take additional classes such as writing or ESL, obtain a
tutor, or take other remedial action. They must also work with the faculty to demonstrate
evidence of progressive improvement during each successive term. Students with serious
academic issues such as academic probation based on grades, poor writing, poor
attendance or other serious issues may be academically dismissed from the doctoral
program as a result of this preliminary review.
