Each doctoral student is assigned an interim advisor who assists the student in setting up an individually designed course of study within the first semester of residency. This is usually the same person for all students in an entering cohort and is typically one of the two PhD Coordinators. Students are encouraged to discuss any changes in their course of study with their advisor prior to taking alternative courses. 

Upon completion of coursework, and during their first semester in LTEC 760, doctoral students select a dissertation chair and work with that person to identify appropriate faculty committee members. The dissertation chair and committee members, including the university representative, are finalized with the approval and consent of the designated committee members (see topic 3.2) and approval of UHM Graduate Division at the time of proposal defense and advancement to candidacy. The LTEC PhD program coordinators  work with dissertation chairs to ensure all requirements and guidelines are met.