Two outcome measures that must be completed prior to dissertation are the comprehensive examination and the defense of your dissertation proposal. These outcomes may be accomplished in your last semester of course work; however, if not completed by the end of your courses you will need to register for one credit of NURS 698 Predissertation each semester until you have met the requirements of a successful comprehensive examination and defense of the dissertation proposal. 1 credit. Fall spring and summer semesters.