Doctoral students typically represent a highly educated group of students that have demonstrated the academic aptitude to successfully complete multiple degrees. Yet, research has continually shown that 40%–60% of doctoral students do not persist to graduate (Allum & Okahana, 2015; Bowen & Rudenstine, 1992). The purpose of this study was to explore the possible influence of individual doctoral student characteristics as well as doctoral program characteristics on doctoral degree completion. Tinto's (1993) theory of doctoral attrition was applied to explore specific variables that may assist or detract a doctoral student with their degree completion. Results suggested age, full–time employment, employment change after comprehensive exams, enrollment status, satisfaction with dissertation chair, and satisfaction with academic involvement all impacted doctoral completion. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
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