Implementing an ETD Program at a Decentralized University; Tricky But Doable

The University of Houston is a campus of 12 colleges all offering masters and doctorate level education. These programs are not directed by the Graduate and Professional Studies (GPS) department, thus making concentrated efforts and mandates extremely difficult, if not virtually impossible. Collaboration between the Library, the GPS, and the graduate staff of each college make the implementation of a successful ETD program possible. By developing a strategy of promotion, training of college staff advisors, faculty and students and enhancing buy in and open communication, the ETD team at the University successfully brought all the colleges on board with a minimum of hiccups. This panel presentation will discuss the strategy that worked well for us and invite an open discussion on how you might be able to apply them to your institution.