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PhD Defence Process: A Comprehensive Guide

Embarking on the journey toward a PhD is an intellectual odyssey marked by tireless research, countless hours of contemplation, and a fervent commitment to contributing to the body of knowledge in one’s field. As the culmination of this formidable journey, the PhD defence stands as the final frontier, the proverbial bridge between student and scholar.

In this comprehensive guide, we unravel the intricacies of the PhD defence—a momentous occasion that is both a celebration of scholarly achievement and a rigorous evaluation of academic prowess. Join us as we explore the nuances of the defence process, addressing questions about its duration, contemplating the possibility of failure, and delving into the subtle distinctions of language that surround it.

Beyond the formalities, we aim to shed light on the significance of this rite of passage, dispelling misconceptions about its nature. Moreover, we’ll consider the impact of one’s attire on this critical day and share personal experiences and practical tips from those who have successfully navigated the defence journey.

Whether you are on the precipice of your own defence or are simply curious about the process, this guide seeks to demystify the PhD defence, providing a roadmap for success and a nuanced understanding of the pivotal event that marks the transition from student to scholar.

Introduction

A. definition and purpose:, b. overview of the oral examination:, a. general duration of a typical defense, b. factors influencing the duration:, c. preparation and flexibility:, a. preparation and thorough understanding of the research:, b. handling questions effectively:, c. confidence and composure during the presentation:, d. posture of continuous improvement:, a. exploring the possibility of failure:, b. common reasons for failure:, c. steps to mitigate the risk of failure:, d. post-failure resilience:, a. addressing the language variation:, b. conforming to regional preferences:, c. consistency in usage:, d. flexibility and adaptability:, e. navigating language in a globalized academic landscape:, a. debunking myths around the formality of the defense:, b. significance in validating research contributions:, c. post-defense impact:, a. appropriate attire for different settings:, b. professionalism and the impact of appearance:, c. practical tips for dressing success:, b. practical tips for a successful defense:, c. post-defense reflections:, career options after phd.

Embarking on the doctoral journey is a formidable undertaking, where aspiring scholars immerse themselves in the pursuit of knowledge, contributing new insights to their respective fields. At the pinnacle of this academic odyssey lies the PhD defence—a culmination that transcends the boundaries of a mere formality, symbolizing the transformation from a student of a discipline to a recognized contributor to the academic tapestry.

The PhD defence, also known as the viva voce or oral examination, is a pivotal moment in the life of a doctoral candidate.

PhD defence is not merely a ritualistic ceremony; rather, it serves as a platform for scholars to present, defend, and elucidate the findings and implications of their research. The defence is the crucible where ideas are tested, hypotheses scrutinized, and the depth of scholarly understanding is laid bare.

The importance of the PhD defence reverberates throughout the academic landscape. It is not just a capstone event; it is the juncture where academic rigour meets real-world application. The defence is the litmus test of a researcher’s ability to articulate, defend, and contextualize their work—an evaluation that extends beyond the pages of a dissertation.

Beyond its evaluative nature, the defence serves as a rite of passage, validating the years of dedication, perseverance, and intellectual rigour invested in the research endeavour. Success in the defence is a testament to the candidate’s mastery of their subject matter and the originality and impact of their contributions to the academic community.

Furthermore, a successful defence paves the way for future contributions, positioning the scholar as a recognized authority in their field. The defence is not just an endpoint; it is a launchpad, propelling researchers into the next phase of their academic journey as they continue to shape and redefine the boundaries of knowledge.

In essence, the PhD defence is more than a ceremonial checkpoint—it is a transformative experience that validates the intellectual journey, underscores the significance of scholarly contributions, and sets the stage for a continued legacy of academic excellence. As we navigate the intricacies of this process, we invite you to explore the multifaceted dimensions that make the PhD defence an indispensable chapter in the narrative of academic achievement.

What is a PhD Defence?

At its core, a PhD defence is a rigorous and comprehensive examination that marks the culmination of a doctoral candidate’s research journey. It is an essential component of the doctoral process in which the candidate is required to defend their dissertation before a committee of experts in the field. The defence serves multiple purposes, acting as both a showcase of the candidate’s work and an evaluative measure of their understanding, critical thinking, and contributions to the academic domain.

The primary goals of a PhD defence include:

Presentation of Research: The candidate presents the key findings, methodology, and significance of their research.
Demonstration of Mastery: The defence assesses the candidate’s depth of understanding, mastery of the subject matter, and ability to engage in scholarly discourse.
Critical Examination: Committee members rigorously question the candidate, challenging assumptions, testing methodologies, and probing the boundaries of the research.
Validation of Originality: The defence validates the originality and contribution of the candidate’s work to the existing body of knowledge.

The PhD defence often takes the form of an oral examination, commonly referred to as the viva voce. This oral component adds a dynamic and interactive dimension to the evaluation process. Key elements of the oral examination include:

Presentation: The candidate typically begins with a formal presentation, summarizing the dissertation’s main components, methodology, and findings. This presentation is an opportunity to showcase the significance and novelty of the research.
Questioning and Discussion: Following the presentation, the candidate engages in a thorough questioning session with the examination committee. Committee members explore various aspects of the research, challenging the candidates to articulate their rationale, defend their conclusions, and respond to critiques.
Defence of Methodology: The candidate is often required to defend the chosen research methodology, demonstrating its appropriateness, rigour, and contribution to the field.
Evaluation of Contributions: Committee members assess the originality and impact of the candidate’s contributions to the academic discipline, seeking to understand how the research advances existing knowledge.

The oral examination is not a mere formality; it is a dynamic exchange that tests the candidate’s intellectual acumen, research skills, and capacity to contribute meaningfully to the scholarly community.

In essence, the PhD defence is a comprehensive and interactive evaluation that encapsulates the essence of a candidate’s research journey, demanding a synthesis of knowledge, clarity of expression, and the ability to navigate the complexities of academic inquiry. As we delve into the specifics of the defence process, we will unravel the layers of preparation and skill required to navigate this transformative academic milestone.

How Long is a PhD Defence?

The duration of a PhD defence can vary widely, but it typically ranges from two to three hours. This time frame encompasses the candidate’s presentation of their research, questioning and discussions with the examination committee, and any additional deliberations or decisions by the committee. However, it’s essential to note that this is a general guideline, and actual defence durations may vary based on numerous factors.

Sciences and Engineering: Defenses in these fields might lean towards the shorter end of the spectrum, often around two hours. The focus is often on the methodology, results, and technical aspects.
Humanities and Social Sciences: Given the theoretical and interpretive nature of research in these fields, defences might extend closer to three hours or more. Discussions may delve into philosophical underpinnings and nuanced interpretations.
Simple vs. Complex Studies: The complexity of the research itself plays a role. Elaborate experiments, extensive datasets, or intricate theoretical frameworks may necessitate a more extended defence.
Number of Committee Members: A larger committee or one with diverse expertise may lead to more extensive discussions and varied perspectives, potentially elongating the defence.
Committee Engagement: The level of engagement and probing by committee members can influence the overall duration. In-depth discussions or debates may extend the defence time.
Cultural Norms: In some countries, the oral defence might be more ceremonial, with less emphasis on intense questioning. In others, a rigorous and extended defence might be the norm.
Evaluation Practices: Different academic systems have varying evaluation criteria, which can impact the duration of the defence.
Institutional Guidelines: Some institutions may have specific guidelines on defence durations, influencing the overall time allotted for the process.

Candidates should be well-prepared for a defence of any duration. Adequate preparation not only involves a concise presentation of the research but also anticipates potential questions and engages in thoughtful discussions. Additionally, candidates should be flexible and responsive to the dynamics of the defense, adapting to the pace set by the committee.

Success Factors in a PhD Defence

Successful defence begins with a deep and comprehensive understanding of the research. Candidates should be well-versed in every aspect of their study, from the theoretical framework to the methodology and findings.
Thorough preparation involves anticipating potential questions from the examination committee. Candidates should consider the strengths and limitations of their research and be ready to address queries related to methodology, data analysis, and theoretical underpinnings.
Conducting mock defences with peers or mentors can be invaluable. It helps refine the presentation, exposes potential areas of weakness, and provides an opportunity to practice responding to challenging questions.
Actively listen to questions without interruption. Understanding the nuances of each question is crucial for providing precise and relevant responses.
Responses should be clear, concise, and directly address the question. Avoid unnecessary jargon, and strive to convey complex concepts in a manner that is accessible to the entire committee.
It’s acceptable not to have all the answers. If faced with a question that stumps you, acknowledge it honestly. Expressing a willingness to explore the topic further demonstrates intellectual humility.
Use questions as opportunities to reinforce key messages from the research. Skillfully link responses back to the core contributions of the study, emphasizing its significance.
Rehearse the presentation multiple times to build familiarity with the material. This enhances confidence, reduces nervousness, and ensures a smooth and engaging delivery.
Maintain confident and open body language. Stand tall, make eye contact, and use gestures judiciously. A composed demeanour contributes to a positive impression.
Acknowledge and manage nervousness. It’s natural to feel some anxiety, but channelling that energy into enthusiasm for presenting your research can turn nervousness into a positive force.
Engage with the committee through a dynamic and interactive presentation. Invite questions during the presentation to create a more conversational atmosphere.
Utilize visual aids effectively. Slides or other visual elements should complement the spoken presentation, reinforcing key points without overwhelming the audience.
View the defence not only as an evaluation but also as an opportunity for continuous improvement. Feedback received during the defence can inform future research endeavours and scholarly pursuits.

In essence, success in a PhD defence hinges on meticulous preparation, adept handling of questions, and projecting confidence and composure during the presentation. A well-prepared and resilient candidate is better positioned to navigate the challenges of the defence, transforming it from a moment of evaluation into an affirmation of scholarly achievement.

Failure in PhD Defence

While the prospect of failing a PhD defence is relatively rare, it’s essential for candidates to acknowledge that the possibility exists. Understanding this reality can motivate diligent preparation and a proactive approach to mitigate potential risks.
Failure, if it occurs, should be seen as a learning opportunity rather than a definitive endpoint. It may highlight areas for improvement and offer insights into refining the research and presentation.
Lack of thorough preparation, including a weak grasp of the research content, inadequate rehearsal, and failure to anticipate potential questions, can contribute to failure.
Inability to effectively defend the chosen research methodology, including justifying its appropriateness and demonstrating its rigour, can be a critical factor.
Failing to clearly articulate the original contributions of the research and its significance to the field may lead to a negative assessment.
Responding defensively to questions, exhibiting a lack of openness to critique, or being unwilling to acknowledge limitations can impact the overall impression.
Inability to address committee concerns or incorporate constructive feedback received during the defense may contribute to a negative outcome.
Comprehensive preparation is the cornerstone of success. Candidates should dedicate ample time to understanding every facet of their research, conducting mock defences, and seeking feedback.
Identify potential weaknesses in the research and address them proactively. Being aware of limitations and articulating plans for addressing them in future work demonstrates foresight.
Engage with mentors, peers, or advisors before the defence. Solicit constructive feedback on both the content and delivery of the presentation to refine and strengthen the defence.
Develop strategies to manage stress and nervousness. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, or visualization can be effective in maintaining composure during the defence.
Conduct a pre-defense review of all materials, ensuring that the presentation aligns with the dissertation and that visual aids are clear and supportive.
Approach the defence with an open and reflective attitude. Embrace critique as an opportunity for improvement rather than as a personal affront.
Clarify expectations with the examination committee beforehand. Understanding the committee’s focus areas and preferences can guide preparation efforts.
In the event of failure, candidates should approach the situation with resilience. Seek feedback from the committee, understand the reasons for the outcome, and use the experience as a springboard for improvement.

In summary, while the prospect of failing a PhD defence is uncommon, acknowledging its possibility and taking proactive steps to mitigate risks are crucial elements of a well-rounded defence strategy. By addressing common failure factors through thorough preparation, openness to critique, and a resilient attitude, candidates can increase their chances of a successful defence outcome.

PhD Defense or Defence?

The choice between “defense” and “defence” is primarily a matter of British English versus American English spelling conventions. “Defense” is the preferred spelling in American English, while “defence” is the British English spelling.
In the global academic community, both spellings are generally understood and accepted. However, the choice of spelling may be influenced by the academic institution’s language conventions or the preferences of individual scholars.
Academic institutions may have specific guidelines regarding language conventions, and candidates are often expected to adhere to the institution’s preferred spelling.
Candidates may also consider the preferences of their advisors or committee members. If there is a consistent spelling convention used within the academic department, it is advisable to align with those preferences.
Consideration should be given to the spelling conventions of scholarly journals in the candidate’s field. If intending to publish research stemming from the dissertation, aligning with the conventions of target journals is prudent.
If the defense presentation or dissertation will be shared with an international audience, using a more universally recognized spelling (such as “defense”) may be preferred to ensure clarity and accessibility.
Regardless of the chosen spelling, it’s crucial to maintain consistency throughout the document. Mixing spellings can distract from the content and may be perceived as an oversight.
In oral presentations and written correspondence related to the defence, including emails, it’s advisable to maintain consistency with the chosen spelling to present a professional and polished image.
Recognizing that language conventions can vary, candidates should approach the choice of spelling with flexibility. Being adaptable to the preferences of the academic context and demonstrating an awareness of regional variations reflects a nuanced understanding of language usage.
With the increasing globalization of academia, an awareness of language variations becomes essential. Scholars often collaborate across borders, and an inclusive approach to language conventions contributes to effective communication and collaboration.

In summary, the choice between “PhD defense” and “PhD defence” boils down to regional language conventions and institutional preferences. Maintaining consistency, being mindful of the target audience, and adapting to the expectations of the academic community contribute to a polished and professional presentation, whether in written documents or oral defences.

Is PhD Defense a Formality?

While the PhD defence is a structured and ritualistic event, it is far from being a mere formality. It is a critical and substantive part of the doctoral journey, designed to rigorously evaluate the candidate’s research contributions, understanding of the field, and ability to engage in scholarly discourse.
The defence is not a checkbox to be marked but rather a dynamic process where the candidate’s research is evaluated for its scholarly merit. The committee scrutinizes the originality, significance, and methodology of the research, aiming to ensure it meets the standards of advanced academic work.
Far from a passive or purely ceremonial event, the defence involves active engagement between the candidate and the examination committee. Questions, discussions, and debates are integral components that enrich the scholarly exchange during the defence.
The defence serves as a platform for the candidate to demonstrate the originality of their research. Committee members assess the novelty of the contributions, ensuring that the work adds value to the existing body of knowledge.
Beyond the content, the defence evaluates the methodological rigour of the research. Committee members assess whether the chosen methodology is appropriate, well-executed, and contributes to the validity of the findings.
Successful completion of the defence affirms the candidate’s ability to contribute meaningfully to the academic discourse in their field. It is an endorsement of the candidate’s position as a knowledgeable and respected scholar.
The defence process acts as a quality assurance mechanism in academia. It ensures that individuals awarded a doctoral degree have undergone a thorough and rigorous evaluation, upholding the standards of excellence in research and scholarly inquiry.
Institutions have specific criteria and standards for awarding a PhD. The defence process aligns with these institutional and academic standards, providing a consistent and transparent mechanism for evaluating candidates.
Successful completion of the defence is a pivotal moment that marks the transition from a doctoral candidate to a recognized scholar. It opens doors to further contributions, collaborations, and opportunities within the academic community.
Research presented during the defence often forms the basis for future publications. The validation received in the defence enhances the credibility of the research, facilitating its dissemination and impact within the academic community.
Beyond the academic realm, a successfully defended PhD is a key credential for professional advancement. It enhances one’s standing in the broader professional landscape, opening doors to research positions, teaching opportunities, and leadership roles.

In essence, the PhD defence is a rigorous and meaningful process that goes beyond formalities, playing a crucial role in affirming the academic merit of a candidate’s research and marking the culmination of their journey toward scholarly recognition.

Dressing for Success: PhD Defense Outfit

For Men: A well-fitted suit in neutral colours (black, navy, grey), a collared dress shirt, a tie, and formal dress shoes.
For Women: A tailored suit, a blouse or button-down shirt, and closed-toe dress shoes.
Dress codes can vary based on cultural expectations. It’s advisable to be aware of any cultural nuances within the academic institution and to adapt attire accordingly.
With the rise of virtual defenses, considerations for attire remain relevant. Even in online settings, dressing professionally contributes to a polished and serious demeanor. Virtual attire can mirror what one would wear in-person, focusing on the upper body visible on camera.
The attire chosen for a PhD defense contributes to the first impression that a candidate makes on the examination committee. A professional and polished appearance sets a positive tone for the defense.
Dressing appropriately reflects respect for the gravity of the occasion. It acknowledges the significance of the defense as a formal evaluation of one’s scholarly contributions.
Wearing professional attire can contribute to a boost in confidence. When individuals feel well-dressed and put-together, it can positively impact their mindset and overall presentation.
The PhD defense is a serious academic event, and dressing professionally fosters an atmosphere of seriousness and commitment to the scholarly process. It aligns with the respect one accords to academic traditions.
Institutional norms may influence dress expectations. Some academic institutions may have specific guidelines regarding attire for formal events, and candidates should be aware of and adhere to these norms.
While adhering to the formality expected in academic settings, individuals can also express their personal style within the bounds of professionalism. It’s about finding a balance between institutional expectations and personal comfort.
Select and prepare the outfit well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Ensure that the attire is clean, well-ironed, and in good condition.
Accessories such as ties, scarves, or jewelry should complement the outfit. However, it’s advisable to keep accessories subtle to maintain a professional appearance.
While dressing professionally, prioritize comfort. PhD defenses can be mentally demanding, and comfortable attire can contribute to a more confident and composed demeanor.
Pay attention to grooming, including personal hygiene and haircare. A well-groomed appearance contributes to an overall polished look.
Start preparation well in advance of the defense date. Know your research inside out, anticipate potential questions, and be ready to discuss the nuances of your methodology, findings, and contributions.
Conduct mock defenses with peers, mentors, or colleagues. Mock defenses provide an opportunity to receive constructive feedback, practice responses to potential questions, and refine your presentation.
Strike a balance between confidence and humility. Confidence in presenting your research is essential, but being open to acknowledging limitations and areas for improvement demonstrates intellectual honesty.
Actively engage with the examination committee during the defense. Listen carefully to questions, respond thoughtfully, and view the defense as a scholarly exchange rather than a mere formality.
Understand the expertise and backgrounds of the committee members. Tailor your presentation and responses to align with the interests and expectations of your specific audience.
Practice time management during your presentation. Ensure that you allocate sufficient time to cover key aspects of your research, leaving ample time for questions and discussions.
It’s normal to feel nervous, but practicing mindfulness and staying calm under pressure is crucial. Take deep breaths, maintain eye contact, and focus on delivering a clear and composed presentation.
Have a plan for post-defense activities. Whether it’s revisions to the dissertation, publications, or future research endeavors, having a roadmap for what comes next demonstrates foresight and commitment to ongoing scholarly contributions.
After successfully defending, individuals often emphasize the importance of taking time to reflect on the entire doctoral journey. Acknowledge personal and academic growth, celebrate achievements, and use the experience to inform future scholarly pursuits.

In summary, learning from the experiences of others who have successfully defended offers a wealth of practical wisdom. These insights, combined with thoughtful preparation and a proactive approach, contribute to a successful and fulfilling defense experience.

You have plenty of career options after completing a PhD. For more details, visit my blog posts:

7 Essential Steps for Building a Robust Research Portfolio

Exciting Career Opportunities for PhD Researchers and Research Scholars

Freelance Writing or Editing Opportunities for Researchers A Comprehensive Guide

Research Consultancy: An Alternate Career for Researchers

The Insider’s Guide to Becoming a Patent Agent: Opportunities, Requirements, and Challenges

The journey from a curious researcher to a recognized scholar culminates in the PhD defence—an intellectual odyssey marked by dedication, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. As we navigate the intricacies of this pivotal event, it becomes evident that the PhD defence is far more than a ceremonial rite; it is a substantive evaluation that validates the contributions of a researcher to the academic landscape.

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Congratulations Messages for PhD or Doctorate Degree

PhD Congratulations Message : Earning a Ph.D. degree is a big stepping stone towards a brighter future. Congratulate them on achieving the doctorate degree and becoming a doctor of their own destiny. Send them warm congratulatory wishes while acknowledging their hardship and sacrifices. Appreciate your brother, sister, husband, wife, son, daughter, teacher, friends, or any beloved ones for achieving their doctorate degree and make them feel great about such a great accomplishment. Earning a doctorate is not easy, so appreciate all their efforts by congratulating them on their big achievement!

PhD Congratulations Message

Congratulations on achieving your PhD. I have seen you working hard day and night and now all the hardship has paid well, proud of you.

Congratulations on your hard-earned Doctorate degree! May this be the stepping stone of your future endeavors!

Congratulations {PUT NAME}! May this Ph.D. be the beginning of many more successful endeavors.

Congratulations on successfully completing your Ph.D. and making us all proud. You have always been so dedicated and sure it is very inspiring indeed.

Your long-cherished dream of becoming a Ph.D. holder has finally come true. Many congratulations on your success. You’ve inspired all of us not only to dream but also to work hard to achieve them.

You left no stone unturned in these years and I want you to know that I am extremely proud of you. Congratulations on earning your PHD.

Your hard work has finally paid off! Congratulations on your Ph.D. and best wishes for the future.

I am extremely proud of you for successfully completing your doctorate. May God help you to achieve your other dreams too. Love you.

You never took pride in your achievements but it is time to feel proud. You have nailed it and outshined us all. Proud of you, mate.

Congratulations on shining bright and scoring this PhD Degree. It seems all your hard work has paid off at last. So proud of you my dear brother.

My warmest congratulations for making it to the end and achieving your degree. All the hardship has paid off lavishly, proud to call you my sister.

Your dream of holding a doctorate degree by your name has finally been fulfilled. I cannot be any prouder than I am today. Love you so much.

Dear Son, heartiest congratulations on earning a PhD degree. It was never easy but did not give up. May God bless you forever. Love you.

Congratulations on your Ph.D. dear daughter! I am so proud of you, and I believe that you are destined to do many more great things.

Congratulations on earning a doctorate degree. Thank you for setting such a great example, teacher. Many happy returns of such a remarkable success.

Congratulations on completing your PhD! Your compassion and perseverance are truly fascinating!

Years of labor and endurance have finally brought you this honorable success! Congratulations, doctor!

Congratulations on your remarkable achievement! I appreciate your persistent hard work!

This doctorate degree ensures a bright future with lots of money for you! You’ve got wings now and you can soar high, Mr. Doctor. Congratulations!

It is a great pleasure and honor to hear that all your hardship finally has finally paid off with this Ph.D. degree. May God bless you and help you achieve more in life.

Congratulations on earning a doctorate degree, dear husband. You are and always will be a source of inspiration for me.

I am thrilled to know about your huge triumph! Congratulations! Your achievement is extraordinary!

Sending my warmest greetings for proving yourself over and over again. Many happy returns of this day and once again congratulations on achieving a Ph.D. Degree.

Congratulations Message for Doctor Degree

Congratulations on your doctorate degree! This is surely one of many achievements to come!

Congratulations on your doctorate degree! Your hardships have paid off and lead you to the epitome of your academic journey! Good luck ahead!

Congratulations on earning your doctorate and making us all proud! You are truly an inspiration to everyone around you.

Congratulations on nailing another successful chapter of your life! I am immensely proud of you and your doctorate.

Seeing the Dr. before your name makes me feel proud. Congratulations on your doctorate!

Congratulations! You have proven to the world that hard work can fulfill any dream!

Congratulations on your doctorate degree! You always stand up to your reputation and make us proud!

congratulations message for doctor degree

Success comes to those who have earned it with their ceaseless effort. Congratulations and good luck!

Congratulations on attaining your Doctorate degree! Your hard work, patience, and perseverance were bound to bear fruit! We are proud of this success!

A hearty congratulations on your doctorate degree! You have marveled at us with your incredible dedication and hard work!

PhD Congratulations Card Messages

Nothing makes me prouder than seeing you shine brightly. Congratulations on your Ph.D. I’m glad for you!

Congratulations to you on becoming a PhD holder! I hope all the struggles are worth this drill and now you can soar higher than ever. Best wishes for the future.

I knew that you would achieve every success in life, and I am happy to see you shine. Congratulations on your Ph.D.!

Congratulations on achieving your doctorate degree. Now that you have completed such a milestone, I pray you find happiness and satisfaction in life as well.

You have proved again how dedicated and strong-willed you are. Congratulations on earning your Ph.D. I am truly happy for your success.

You truly have proved your self-dedication and perseverance, dear sister. May God bless you to achieve all the success that is waiting for you. Congratulations on your PHD.

Thank you for proving once again how strong and dedicated you are when it comes to achieving your goals. I love you so much, son. Congratulations on your degree.

Congratulation on such a major success. Your hardship and efforts have finally paid you off with a doctorate degree in your hand. Love you so much.

Thank you for holding our heads high and achieving the Ph.D. Your courage and dedication have led you to earn this, extremely proud of you.

Funny PhD Wishes

Congratulations on your PhD! I’m sure your body has more coffee running than blood by now!

Congratulations! Glad that you have obtained your doctorate before going completely bald!

If you have survived pursuing a Ph.D., life cannot knock you down anymore! Congratulations!

Congratulations on completing your PhD! Rest your brain for a while lest it short-circuits!

Ph.D. is like labor pain; the process is hard, but it’s all worth it in the end! Congratulations on your Ph.D. completion!

Congratulations! Now that you have attained your degree, it’s time to meet the outside world!

Although you have become a doctor now, refrain from performing CPR! Congratulations!

PhD Completion Best Wishes and Proud Messages

Best wishes for your PhD! Your burning passion speaks through your achievement!

Congratulations on attaining your PhD! May this accomplishment encourage you to thrive more in the future! My best wishes go to you!

Congratulations on receiving your hard-earned PhD! May you do wonders for the world!

Congratulations on your PhD! Best wishes for the upcoming triumphs and endeavors!

This milestone was not easy to reach, but you never stopped running. Congratulations and best wishes!

Congratulations on obtaining your PhD! We are delighted to see your excellent academic performance throughout the journey.

We are overjoyed to know about your academic performance! Congratulations on your Ph.D.! You have certainly made us the proudest peers ever!

Your accomplishments never fail to amaze us! Congratulations on your successful completion of your Ph.D.!

PhD/Doctor Degree Congratulations Wishes for Social Media

Weldone for successfully completing your PhD. I’m proud of you.

Finnaly, you nailed it! Congratulations Doctor on your hard-earned doctoral degree.

The journey wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. Congratulations on earning your Ph.D.!

You are smarter than most people, and now you have a Ph.D. to prove it! Congratulations and best wishes to you.

Congratulations, Dr. You have worked hard to go this far in life and deserve to be proud of yourself.

This is a prestigious degree, and you have earned it like a champ! Congratulations and much love to you.

Achieving a doctorate degree is not an easy deal. One has to sacrifice a lot to earn this. After all the hardship, the person achieving a Ph.D. deserves to be praised wholeheartedly. Sending some congratulatory messages with your warm and enthusiastic words will make the moment more cheerful. A Ph.D. or Doctorate is the highest form of education that anyone can ever get and this is not just a degree. As the degree will bring a new perspective into one’s life, let him/her enjoy the moment for achieving the hard-earned doctorate degree. Send some sweet and warm Ph.D. congratulatory messages to make them feel great about themselves as such a degree should be celebrated without any doubt. Years of hard work finally result in such an achievement so salute it. Let’s wish them a day full of sunshine a pocket full of dreams and congratulate them with encouraging words right from your heart.

What Is a PhD Viva?

A viva voce , more commonly referred to as ‘viva’, is an oral examination conducted at the end of your PhD and is essentially the final hurdle on the path to a doctorate. It is the period in which a student’s knowledge and work are evaluated by independent examiners.

In order to assess the student and their work around their research question, a viva sets out to determine:

you understand the ideas and theories that you have put forward,
you can answer questions about elements of your work that the examiners have questions about,
you understand the broader research in your field and how your work contributes to this,
you are aware of the limitations of your work and understand how it can be developed further,
your work makes an original contribution, is your own and has not been plagiarised.

Note: A viva is a compulsory procedure for all PhD students, with the only exception being when a PhD is obtained through publication as opposed to the conventional route of study.

Who Will Attend a Viva?

In the UK, at least two examiners must take part in all vivas. Although you could have more than two examiners, most will not in an attempt to facilitate a smoother questioning process.

One of the two examiners will be internal, i.e. from your university, and the other will be external, i.e. from another university. Regardless, both will be knowledgeable in your research field and have read your thesis beforehand.

In addition to your two examiners, two other people may be present. The first is a chairperson. This is an individual who will be responsible for monitoring the interview and for ensuring proper conduct is followed at all times. The need for an external chairperson will vary between universities, as one of the examiners can also take on this role. The second is your supervisor, whose attendance is decided upon by you in agreement with your examiners. If your supervisor attends, they are prohibited from asking questions or from influencing the outcome of the viva.

To avoid any misunderstandings, we have summarised the above in a table:

Note: In some countries, such as in the United States, a viva is known as a ‘PhD defense’ and is performed publicly in front of a panel or board of examiners and an open audience. In these situations, the student presents their work in the form of a lecture and then faces questions from the examiners and audience which almost acts as a critical appraisal.

How Long Does a Viva Last?

Since all universities have different guidelines , and since all PhDs are unique, there are no standard durations. Typically, however, the duration ranges from one to three hours, with most lasting approximately two hours.

Your examiners will also influence the duration of your viva as some will favour a lengthy discussion, while others may not. Usually, your university will consult your examiners in advance and notify you of the likely duration closer to the day of your viva.

What Happens During a Viva?

Regardless of the subject area, all PhD vivas follow the same examination process format as below.

Introductions

You will introduce yourselves to each other, with the internal examiner normally introducing the external examiner. If an external chairperson is present, they too are introduced; otherwise, this role will be assumed by one of the examiners.

Procedure Explained

After the introductions, the appointed chair will explain the viva process. Although it should already be known to everyone, it will be repeated to ensure the viva remains on track during the forthcoming discussion.

Warm-Up Questions

The examiners will then begin the questioning process. This usually starts with a few simple opening questions, such as asking you to summarise your PhD thesis and what motivated you to carry out the research project.

In-Depth Questions

The viva questions will then naturally increase in difficulty as the examiners go further into the details of your thesis. These may include questions such as “What was the most critical decision you made when determining your research methodology ?”, “Do your findings agree with the current published work?” and “How do your findings impact existing theories or literature? ”. In addition to asking open-ended questions, they will also ask specific questions about the methodology, results and analysis on which your thesis is based.

Closing the Viva

Once the examiners are satisfied that they have thoroughly evaluated your knowledge and thesis, they will invite you to ask any questions you may have, and then bring the oral examination to a close.

What Happens After the Viva?

Once your viva has officially ended, your examiners will ask you to leave the room so that they can discuss your performance. Once a mutual agreement has been reached, which can take anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour, you will be invited back inside and informed of your outcome.

PhD Viva Outcomes

There are six possible outcomes to a viva:

Immediate award of degree: A rare recommendation – congratulations, you are one of the few people who completely satisfied your examiners the first time around. You do not have to do anything further at this point.
Minor amendments required: The most common recommendation – you obtain a pass on the condition that you make a number of minor amendments to your thesis, such as clarifying certain points and correcting grammatical errors. The time you have to make these changes depends on the number of them, but is usually one to six months.
Major amendments required: A somewhat uncommon recommendation – you are requested to make major amendments to your thesis, ranging from further research to collecting more data or rewriting entire sections. Again, the time you have to complete this will depend on the number of changes required, but will usually be six months to one year. You will be awarded your degree once your amended thesis has been reviewed and accepted.
Immediate award of MPhil: An uncommon recommendation – your examiners believe your thesis does not meet the standard for a doctoral degree but meets the standard for an MPhil (Master of Philosophy), a lower Master’s degree.
Amendments required for MPhil: A rare recommendation – your examiners believe your thesis does not meet the standard for a doctoral degree, but with several amendments will meet the standard for an MPhil.
Immediate fail: A very rare recommendation – you are given an immediate fail without the ability to resubmit and without entitlement to an MPhil.

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What Is the Pass Rate for Vivas?

Based on an analysis of 26,076 PhD students who took their viva exam between 2006 and 2017, the PhD viva pass rate in the UK is 96%; of those who passed, about 80% were required to make minor amendments to their thesis. The reason for this high pass rate is that supervisors will only put their students forward for a viva once they confidently believe they are ready for it. As a result, most candidates who sit a viva are already well-versed in their PhD topic before they even start preparing for the exam.

How Do I Arrange a Viva?

Your viva will be arranged either by the examiners or by the chairperson. The viva will be arranged at least one to two months after you have submitted your thesis and will arrange a viva date and venue that is suitable for all participants.

Can I Choose My Examiners?

At most universities, you and your supervisor will choose the internal and external examiners yourselves. This is because the examiners must have extensive knowledge of the thesis topic in order to be able to examine you and, as the author of the thesis in question, who else could better determine who they might be than you and your supervisor. The internal examiner is usually quite easy to find given they will be from your institution, but the external examiner may end up being your second or third preference depending on availability.

Can I Take Notes Into a Viva?

A viva is about testing your competence, not your memory. As such, you are allowed to take notes and other supporting material in with you. However, keep in mind that your examiners will not be overly impressed if you constantly have to refer to your notes to answer each question. Because of this, many students prefer to take an annotated copy of their thesis, with important points already highlighted and key chapters marked with post-it notes.

In addition to an annotated copy of a thesis, some students also take:

a list of questions they would like to ask the examiners,
notes that were created during their preparation,
a list of minor corrections they have already identified from their viva prep work.

How Do I Prepare for a PhD Viva?

There are several ways to prepare for a PhD viva, one of the most effective being a mock viva voce examination . This allows you to familiarise yourself with the type of viva questions you will be asked and identify any weak areas you need to improve. They also give you the opportunity to practise without the pressure, giving you more time to think about your answers which will help to make sure that you know your thesis inside out. However, a mock viva exam is just one of many methods available to you – some of the other viva preparation methods can be found on our “ How to Prepare for a PhD Viva ” page.

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Final Defense/Filing a Dissertation

Final examination and filing of the dissertation.

The final Ph.D. requirements are submission of a dissertation and the dissertation defense. A minimum interval of three quarters of academic residency must elapse between advancement to candidacy and final defense and submission of the dissertation. Therefore, you should plan on taking the Final Examination about one year after passing the qualifying exam. The Final Exam is an oral examination, which shall be public and so announced, in which you present and defend your dissertation to your doctoral committee.

You must have completed 6 quarters of academic residency, of which 3 quarters must be between advancement and final examination. Residency requirements between advancement to candidacy and completion of the degree may be waived under special circumstances. Please consult an ECE Graduate Student Affairs Advisor on the process involved.
You must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or above in upper division and graduate course work, have no more than 8 units of "F" or "U", and resolve all outstanding grading problems.
You must be registered and enrolled or file a general petition to pay the filing fee in lieu of registration.
You must liaise with the members of your doctoral committee to decide upon a date and time for your examination. Try to set a date and time for your exam six weeks in advance. Faculty members are very busy and are frequently out of town, especially during the summer months. Keep this in mind when planning to schedule your exam.
You would normally take the final exam during a regular quarter. You may, however, schedule the exam during the summer or between quarters to accommodate the availability of faculty. In this instance, you will be required to file a general petition to waive registration and pay the filing fee.
For a variety of reasons, your doctoral committee may need to be reconstituted. To request a reconstitution of the membership of your committee, you must consult an ECE Graduate Student Affairs Advisor. The Advisor will then submit a Request for Reconstitution of Committee Membership form to Graduate Division, with the reasons for requesting the change. This form must be submitted to Graduate Division at least two weeks prior to your final defense.
Date and time of exam
Title of your dissertation
Names of your committee members Page 2 of 3 Updated 08/2016
Room booking
Preparation of required forms
Preparation of your file for the exam committee
An exam confirmation will be sent to you via email once initial arrangements have been made for your exam
An exam announcement will be sent to you and your exam committee via email two weeks prior to the exam
An exam reminder will be sent to you and your exam committee via email two days prior to the exam
Academic Senate policy states that a draft of the doctoral dissertation should be submitted to each member of the doctoral committee at least four weeks before the final examination.
The final version of your dissertation must conform to procedures outlined in the publication, Preparation and Submission Manual for Doctoral Dissertations and Master’s Theses, which can be found on the Graduate Division’s website.
You must make an appointment with Graduate Division for a preliminary check of your dissertation. At that appointment the format is checked and instructions on the final preparation and submission of the dissertation are given. You may schedule your dissertation formatting review appointment via Graduate Division’s Online Calendar: https://gradforms.ucsd.edu/calendar/index.php
For reservations in EBU1, the last 6 digits of your PID will serve as your room code the day of your exam.
Complete the Program Exit Questionnaire .
1. Academic Senate policy states that the committee conducts the examination which is to be public and announced as such.
All committee members are required to be present at the examination. In the event that a committee member is going to be absent at the time of the examination, this matter should be discussed with an ECE Graduate Student Affairs Advisor and your committee chair. The committee chair and the tenured outside member must always be present at a defense exam. The doctoral committee shall pass on your dissertation and conduct the final oral examination.
The final examination is about 2 hours in duration. You should be prepared to present and defend your dissertation before your doctoral committee.
Plan to give a practice talk to your advisor and/or fellow students at least one week before your exam. This allows you plenty of time to make revisions and helps to strengthen your advisor’s confidence in you.
You will be informed of the outcome following the end of the exam. The Report of the Final Examination and Filing of the Dissertation for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy form is then signed by members of your doctoral committee. The Final Report and the Signature page of your dissertation must have the original signatures of all members of your doctoral committee. Proxy signatures are not acceptable. Page 3 of 3 Updated 08/2016
Schedule your final appointment with Graduate Division for the submission of your final paperwork and dissertation at least a week after your final defense date to allow sufficient time for finalizing your final paperwork and obtaining relevant signatures.
The ECE Graduate Student Affairs Advisor will notify you via email when the Report of the Final Examination and Filing of the Dissertation for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy form is ready for collection. You must submit this form during your final submission appointment with Graduate Division and by the filing deadline.
Concurrently, you must submit the dissertation to Graduate Division and, upon approval by the Dean of Graduate Studies, file the dissertation with the university archivist, who accepts it on behalf of the Graduate Council.
Acceptance of the dissertation by the archivist, with subsequent second approval by the dean of Graduate Studies, represents the final step in the completion by the candidate of all requirements for the Ph.D. degree.
You are not "finished" until the dissertation has been filed with the Library and Graduate Division has signed off on all paperwork.
The Ph.D. degree will be awarded in the same quarter that you file your dissertation (except for exams taken between quarters, for which the degree will be awarded at the end of the following quarter).
You will receive a letter confirming that you have successfully completed the Ph.D. degree requirements at the end of the same quarter.
Your diploma will be mailed 3-6 months after the end of the quarter. The diplomas are mailed directly to your permanent mailing address. Therefore, you must check your address for accuracy on TritonLink ( http://tritonlink.ucsd.edu/ ) to avoid delays in delivery.
Collect all mail from your student mailbox, and notify everyone who sends you mail at ECE of your current mailing address. Your mailbox will be cleared at the end of the quarter of your graduation, and all remaining mail will be returned to the sender.
UCSD conducts one commencement ceremony each year at the end of Spring quarter. In order to participate in commencement, you must have completed all degree requirements, including the filing of the dissertation by the Spring filing deadline.

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Defending your doctoral thesis: the PhD viva

Format for defending a doctoral thesis.

Every institution will have specific regulations for the thesis defence. In some countries or institutions, the convention is for thesis defences to be public events where you will give a lecture explaining your research, followed by a discussion with a panel of examiners (opponents). Both your examiners and the audience are able to ask questions.

In other countries, including the UK, the oral examination is usually conducted behind closed doors by at least two examiners, usually with at least one being from another institution (external examiner) and an expert in your topic of research. In the UK the supervisor does not participate in the viva, but may be allowed to observe. Sometimes someone from your own institution is appointed as an independent chair. Although it is now becoming more common for the candidate to have an opportunity to give a public lecture in UK institutions, this does not form part of the examination and may or may not be attended by the examiners.

Viva preparation

Take the preparation for your viva seriously and devote a substantial amount of time to it. The viva preparation checklist may be useful to help you prepare.

Your institution may offer courses on viva preparation and there may be opportunities to organise a practice viva. Take advantage of these opportunities: they can be extremely valuable experiences.

Things you may wish to take with you

your thesis – mildly annotated if you wish
a list of questions that you might be asked and your planned responses
any questions that you want to ask your examiners
additional notes which you have made during your revision
list of minor corrections that you have come across during your revision.

During the viva

Your study will have strengths and weaknesses: it is essential that you are prepared to discuss both. You could think of any weaknesses as an opportunity to demonstrate your skill at critical appraisal. Examiners will seek to find and discuss weaknesses in all theses. Do not interpret criticism as indication of a possible negative outcome.

Examiners have different personalities, styles and levels of experience. Sometimes a candidate may feel that a challenge is made in a confrontational way. Experienced, effective examiners will not be inappropriately confrontational, but some will. Do not take offence. A relaxed, thoughtful, and non-confrontational response from you will help re-balance the discussion. Having an independent chair can help maintain a constructive environment.

Useful tips for during your viva:

Ask for clarification of ambiguous questions or ask for the question to be repeated if necessary
Take time to think before answering
Be prepared to ask questions and enter into a dialogue with your examiners
Be prepared to discuss your research in context of other work done in your field
Be ready to admit if you don't know the answer to a question
Be prepared to express opinions of your own

You are not expected to have perfect recall of your thesis and everything that you have read and done. If you get flustered, or need to refer to notes your examiners will understand. They have been in your situation themselves!

After your viva

There are several possible outcomes of a thesis defence. Most commonly, your examiners will recommend to your institution that you are awarded your degree subject to minor corrections, although in some instances they might ask for more substantial work.

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Readings With Hope

48 Congratulations Messages for PhD or Doctorate Degree Students

Have you ever witnessed the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and relentless pursuit of knowledge?

Imagine the elation, the sense of accomplishment that comes with achieving the pinnacle of academic excellence.

As we celebrate the remarkable journey of Ph.D. students, it’s imperative to convey our heartfelt congratulations in a way that truly honors their extraordinary achievement.

Here, we present some heartfelt messages that encapsulate the pride and admiration we feel for these exceptional individuals as they embark on the next chapter of their scholarly endeavors.

Congratulations Messages for Phd Admission

“Congratulations on your admission to the PhD program ! Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off. This is a remarkable achievement and the beginning of an incredible journey in academia. I have no doubt that you will contribute valuable insights to your field!”
“Well done on securing your spot in the PhD program! This is a testament to your brilliance and perseverance . I’m thrilled to see where this next chapter takes you. Your future is undoubtedly bright, and I’m excited for all the discoveries and contributions you will make.”
“ Congratulations! You’ve been admitted to the PhD program, a milestone that speaks volumes about your academic excellence and passion for your field. This journey will be challenging but incredibly rewarding. Your dedication is inspiring!”
“This is fantastic news! Being accepted into a PhD program is no small feat, and it clearly demonstrates your commitment and capability. Embrace this new adventure with the knowledge that you are fully equipped to excel. Congratulations!”
“Congratulations on your PhD admission! Your journey has been nothing short of inspiring , and this achievement is a significant milestone. The dedication and resilience you have shown are commendable. I look forward to seeing the impact of your research.”
“I’m so proud of you for getting into the PhD program! This achievement is a clear reflection of your hard work, determination , and intelligence. The road ahead is full of possibilities and I’m excited to see the contributions you will make to your field .”
“Your admission to the PhD program is well-deserved. Congratulations on this incredible accomplishment ! Your passion and dedication have led you to this moment, and I have every confidence in your success moving forward.”
“ Heartfelt congratulations on your PhD admission! You’ve crossed a major threshold in your academic career, and I’m thrilled to witness the excellence you’ll bring to your research and the academic community.”

“Congratulations on your admission! It’s a privilege to see someone so dedicated and talented achieve this significant milestone . Your PhD journey will be demanding, but I know you will rise to the challenge and excel .”
“Well done on earning your place in the PhD program! Your perseverance and academic prowess have truly paid off. This journey will be one of growth and discovery, and I’m excited for the contributions you will make to the world of academia.”
“Congratulations on your PhD admission! This is a testament to your exceptional skills and dedication. I’m confident that you will bring fresh perspectives and innovations to your field. Your future is incredibly promising!”
“Achieving admission to a PhD program is a significant accomplishment , and I’m so proud of you for reaching this milestone. Your dedication to your studies and research is admirable , and I’m excited to see where this journey takes you. Congratulations!”
“Congratulations on your PhD admission! Your drive and intellect have opened the door to an amazing opportunity. This journey will challenge and inspire you, and I can’t wait to see the innovations you’ll bring to your field.”
“ Bravo for securing your place in the PhD program! This achievement is a testament to your exceptional talent and hard work. The journey ahead is full of promise, and I’m confident you’ll make a lasting impact .”
“Your admission to the PhD program is incredibly well-deserved . Congratulations on reaching this milestone! Your commitment to your research is inspiring, and I have no doubt you will excel in this new chapter.”
“This is a momentous occasion ! Congratulations on your acceptance into the PhD program. Your dedication and perseverance have paid off, and I’m excited to see you thrive in this challenging and rewarding environment.”

“ Heartiest congratulations on your PhD admission! You’ve proven yourself to be a formidable scholar , and this is just the beginning. The academic community awaits your contributions with great anticipation.”
“Well done on your PhD admission! Your hard work and dedication have clearly shone through. This is a golden opportunity to further your research and make meaningful contributions to your field. Congratulations!”
“Congratulations on this spectacular achievement ! Being admitted into a PhD program is a clear indicator of your academic excellence and potential for groundbreaking research. I’m thrilled about your future discoveries.”
“Your PhD admission is a testament to your brilliant mind and unwavering dedication . This milestone is just the beginning of a journey filled with discoveries and success. Congratulations on this well-deserved accomplishment!”
“ Incredible job on earning your place in the PhD program! Your ability to tackle complex problems and push the boundaries of knowledge is truly inspiring. I’m looking forward to seeing your impact on your field.”
“Congratulations on your PhD admission! This step is a huge leap towards fulfilling your academic and research ambitions. Your passion and perseverance have led you to this point, and they will guide you to even greater achievements.”
“ Congratulations on your well-deserved PhD admission! Your journey so far has been a testament to your hard work and dedication . The academic world is ready for your contributions, and I’m excited to see where this path takes you.”
“Securing your admission into the PhD program is a major milestone —congratulations! Your commitment to excellence is evident, and this opportunity will enable you to explore and transform your field in unimaginable ways.”

Congratulations Messages for Phd Graduation

“Congratulations on your PhD graduation ! This is a testament to your incredible perseverance and dedication. You’ve not only advanced your own knowledge but are set to contribute significantly to your field. Well done !”
“ Heartfelt congratulations on achieving this monumental milestone! Your PhD is not just a degree, but a symbol of your relentless dedication and passion for research. The world awaits your innovations and discoveries.”
“Congratulations on your outstanding achievement ! Completing your PhD is a remarkable feat that speaks volumes about your intelligence, determination , and hard work. Your future endeavors are bound to be exceptional .”
“Well done on reaching the pinnacle of academic excellence —your PhD graduation! This milestone is a launchpad for your career, and I have no doubt you will make waves in your field. Congratulations on this incredible success !”
“ Bravo on your PhD graduation! You’ve climbed the highest academic mountain, and your view must be spectacular. Your journey has been inspiring , and your future is as bright as your brilliant mind . Here’s to many more achievements!”
“Congratulations on your PhD graduation! This is a major accomplishment that showcases your expertise and commitment to your field. The dedication you’ve shown is truly commendable. Your journey is just beginning .”
“Achieving your PhD is a monumental success that few attain. Congratulations on this significant milestone! Your hard work and sacrifices have culminated in this proud moment. The impact of your research will be far-reaching .”
“Your PhD graduation marks the culmination of years of research, study, and sacrifices. Congratulations on achieving such a prestigious milestone ! Your dedication to advancing knowledge is truly admirable .”

“ Heartiest congratulations on your PhD graduation! You’ve proven that with perseverance and passion , even the loftiest goals are achievable. Your academic journey has been nothing short of inspiring .”
“Congratulations on your PhD graduation! You’ve mastered the art of perseverance, dedication , and scholarly excellence. This achievement opens up a world of opportunities . I can’t wait to see where your talents take you.”
“ Warmest congratulations on your PhD graduation! Your journey has been a beacon of inspiration for all who aspire to pursue their dreams. Your contributions to your field are already impressive , and the best is yet to come.”
“Congratulations on your PhD graduation! You’ve achieved the highest level of academic excellence and are poised to make a significant impact in your field. Your hard work and determination have truly paid off .”
“Congratulations on your PhD graduation ! The dedication and passion you’ve shown on this journey are truly remarkable . Your ability to overcome challenges and push the boundaries of knowledge is inspiring . Here’s to your continued success!”
“ Huge congratulations on achieving such a monumental milestone—your PhD graduation! Your journey has been a testament to your resilience and unwavering commitment . I am excited to see the impact your future work will have on the world.”
“Completing your PhD is an extraordinary achievement that reflects your hard work, intelligence, and dedication to your field. Congratulations on reaching this pinnacle of academic success ! The future holds endless possibilities for you.”
“ Bravo on your well-deserved PhD graduation! You’ve not only earned the highest academic degree but also demonstrated exceptional skill and perseverance. Your contributions to your field are sure to be groundbreaking .”

“Congratulations on your impressive achievement ! Graduating with a PhD is a clear indication of your expertise, dedication , and passion for research. Your future endeavors are bound to be successful and influential .”
“Your PhD graduation is a significant accomplishment that speaks to your hard work and academic brilliance . Congratulations on reaching this milestone! Your journey has been inspiring , and I look forward to your next chapter.”
“ Heartfelt congratulations on completing your PhD! This milestone is a reflection of your incredible dedication and the hard work you’ve invested in your research. Your achievement is truly commendable .”
“Congratulations on your PhD graduation! You’ve demonstrated exceptional perseverance and intellectual rigor throughout your journey. Your ability to contribute meaningfully to your field is undoubtedly remarkable.”
“ Warmest congratulations on your PhD graduation! Your journey to this point has been filled with challenges, but your determination and passion for your work have shone through. The academic and professional worlds await your innovations .”
“Congratulations on achieving this pinnacle of academic excellence —your PhD! Your dedication to pushing the boundaries of knowledge is admirable . This achievement marks the beginning of a promising future filled with impactful contributions .”
“Your PhD graduation is not just an academic achievement; it’s a testament to your incredible resilience, intellect , and commitment to making a difference in your field. Congratulations on this well-earned success!”
“Congratulations on your PhD graduation! Your hard work, dedication, and brilliant insights have brought you to this moment. Your future contributions to your field are eagerly anticipated by all who know the value of your work .”

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I make sure that your cards don't go empty handed.

Graduate School of Health and Medical Sciences

Thesis and defence

Defence and certificate

As a PhD student you can choose between three different types of oral PhD defences:

A physical defence
A fully digital PhD defence with a link open to the public
A digital PhD defence with partly physical presence and a link open to the public

For all three types of defence, the PhD student must fill in the form " Information regarding the PhD defence and the PhD certificate " at least 3 weeks before the defence.

The principal supervisor is responsible for planning the defence, including booking a venue or assisting with setting up a digital meeting room if relevant.

For venues at Panum please contact [email protected]

Information applicable to all types of oral defences

For all types of oral defences these rules apply:

The PhD student has up to 45 minutes to present the main findings of the PhD project. Afterwards the assessment committee examines the PhD student and facilitates an academic discussion based on the thesis and the PhD student's presentation.
At the end of the defence, the audience is given the opportunity to ask questions.
The defence should not take more than three hours in total, including all or any break(s).
The PhD defence must always be publicly available
The defence normally takes place in English. In order for the defence to be conducted in Danish, all members of the assessment committee must agree to this. In addition, it should be clarified whether anyone in the audience would prefer the defence to be held in English.
Supervisors have no formal role during the oral defence. However, they should attend the event in order to support the PhD student and celebrate his or her achievements.

Physical PhD defence

Digital defence with partly physical presence, digital defence, phd certificate and documentation.

The PhD degree is awarded by The Academic Council after an obligatory consultation procedure.

A few weeks after the defence, you will receive an e-mail from the Graduate School confirming that the Academic Council has awarded you the PhD degree. This e-mail serves as temporary documentation of your degree.

You will receive your final PhD certificate approximately 1–2 months after a successful defence.

Social arrangements in connection with the PhD defence

The Graduate School encourages the common praxis of inviting the assessment committee and the supervisors out for a dinner or lunch. The arrangements must be made in accordance with the university’s rules regarding entertainment expenses. This is usually the responsibility of the principal supervisor.

Here are the guidelines:

The Graduate School reimburses the costs for one lunch or dinner for the assessment committee, the principal supervisor and primary co-supervisor (this does not include the PhD student).
If you wish to apply for a reimbursement, please make sure to get a receipt for the expenses and email the receipt to the Graduate School along with a list of participants.
The Graduate School does not reimburse a reception.

The work of the assessment committee

Illustration: the final stages of the phd.

Preparing for your PhD thesis defence

As you start thinking about the end stages of your PhD, it’s important to understand the processes and timelines related to the thesis defence so that your degree completion is not delayed. Even if your thesis defence seems far away, there are several planning considerations you can consider early on to help the end stages of your PhD go smoothly.

On this page you will find videos, tools, and information about what the PhD thesis defence is , timelines for the PhD thesis defence , and tips for a successful PhD thesis defence .

All PhD students should also ensure that they read the PhD thesis examination regulations and review the thesis preparation guidelines prior to their oral defence. If your thesis defence will be conducted remotely, you should also review the process for a remote thesis defence .

What is the PhD defence?

Understanding the purpose, processes and possible outcomes of the thesis defence can help you feel more prepared for the defence itself. In this video, you’ll learn about what the defence is, who’s there, what happens, and the deliberation and range of possible outcomes.

Transcript - Demystifying the thesis defence at University of Waterloo (PDF)

You may wish to learn more about some of the topics discussed in this video. Here are some helpful links to learn more:

Examination committee members (including the external examiner): Visit the PhD thesis examination regulations section on the PhD thesis examining committee for more information about the committee members, including information about the external examiner and conflicts of interest.

Closed thesis defences and non-disclosure agreements: Visit the PhD thesis examination regulations section on guidelines for thesis examination without public disclosure for more information about closed thesis examinations.
Thesis defence decisions and outcomes: Visit the PhD thesis examination regulations section on decisions for additional information about decisions and outcomes.
Thesis submission: Visit the thesis submission webpage for information about the thesis submission process, including approvals that must be obtained before submitting your thesis.
UWSpace: Visit the Library’s UWSpace webpage for information about what UWSpace is and how to submit, or deposit, your thesis to UWSpace.

Timeline to defence

Early planning considerations.

Well before your defence date, there are several considerations to think about that can help make the end stages of your degree go smoothly and ensure your defence date and degree completion are not delayed:

Being aware of formatting requirements will save you time on revisions later on – the last thing you want to be doing before submitting your thesis to UWSpace is updating page numbers or your table of contents! Consider using the Microsoft Word or LaTeX thesis template produced by Information Systems & Technology.
The Dissertation Boot Camp can help you develop effective writing practices and strategies for completing your thesis, while the three-part Rock Your Thesis workshop series will provide practical guidance for planning, writing, revising, and submitting your thesis project. You can also book an individual appointment to do backwards planning with an advisor. They can help you utilize the planning tools most effectively, while providing hands-on guidance and feedback.
If you are using third-party content, including your own previously published work in your thesis, or seeking intellectual property protection (for yourself or another involved party), there may be implications for your thesis or defence. Learn more about copyright for your thesis , and email [email protected] for help with copyright questions related to your thesis.
Depending on your departmental or discipline’s norms, you may require approval from your entire committee, or just your supervisor. Ensure you talk with your supervisor and/or committee early on to confirm processes and timelines, so you’re not surprised later.
Depending on your departmental or discipline’s norms, your supervisor may select an external examiner themselves, or they may seek your input. Talk to your supervisor early on about this process, as in some faculties the external examiner may need to be vetted and approved as early as the term before you wish to defend. Remember that there are conflict of interest guidelines around the appointment of the external examiner , and the PhD candidate should not be in communication with the external examiner prior to the defence.
A PhD thesis must be on display for a minimum of 4 weeks prior to the defence date. To accommodate, you may need to submit your thesis as early as 6-8 weeks prior to your defence. Review your faculty specific backwards planning tool for the thesis submission deadline in your faculty and learn more about the display period in the PhD thesis examination regulations.
After your successful thesis defence, you will likely have some required revisions to your thesis. It’s important to understand revision timelines , especially if you’re hoping to become “degree complete” before a tuition refund or convocation deadline. Find tuition refund and convocation deadlines in the important dates calendar .
Following your thesis defence, there are several steps to be taken before your final, approved thesis is accepted in UWSpace. Ensure that you’re aware of these thesis submission steps and timelines in advance.

Backwards planning tools

Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs, in collaboration with the Faculties, have prepared faculty specific backwards planning tools to help PhD candidates map out the timelines related to their thesis defence and degree completion.

Select your faculty below to download a PDF copy of the backwards planning tool. We encourage you to discuss your ideal timelines with your supervisor(s) and your department graduate program co-ordinator.

Faculty of Health backwards planning tool (PDF)
Faculty of Arts backwards planning tool (PDF)
Faculty of Engineering backwards planning tool (PDF)
Faculty of Environment backwards planning tool (PDF)
Faculty of Mathematics backwards planning tool (PDF)
Faculty of Science backwards planning tool (PDF)

Tips for success

The PhD thesis defence is the culmination of years of hard work! The tips outlined in this video, compiled from recent PhD graduates and experienced thesis defence chairs, cover tips for preparing for your defence, day-of logistics, and defending successfully.

Transcript - Your Thesis Defence: Tips for Success (PDF)

Will your PhD thesis defence be held remotely? We’ve compiled additional tips for success specifically related to the remote defence.

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Ph.D. Defense Presentation by Carl Hildebrandt

Computer Science Department

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Autonomous System Testing: Incorporating Physical Environments and Physical Semantics

Abstract :

As the integration of autonomous systems becomes increasingly common in our everyday lives, their shortcomings and failures become more apparent. Therefore, rigorous validation to ensure their safety and reliability is paramount. Since autonomous systems behavior is predominantly driven by software, and software validation has achieved significant success in validating applications billions of people use today, it seems natural to attempt to apply current software validation to autonomous systems. Such application, however, requires overcoming two key challenges introduced by the differences between traditional software and autonomous systems, namely the physical environment and the systems physical semantics. Without considering these differences, traditional software testing techniques struggle to cope with a large unbounded input space and to effectively target areas of the software that drive the behaviors of the autonomous system. This work introduces techniques grounded in traditional software analysis that overcome these challenges spanning the entire testing pipeline: test generation, test execution, and test adequacy assessment.

In the area of Test Generation, I investigated techniques to produce tests based on a vehicle's kinematics to ensure they aligned with the physical semantics of the autonomous system, all while using parametrizable scoring models to identify tests that stress an autonomous system. Moreover, I leveraged a vast array of existing sensor data from real-world physical environments to identify performance discrepancies across different versions of an autonomous system. The sensor data that yielded discrepancies were then compared against the autonomous systems Operational Design Domain to determine their relevance.

In Test Execution, I have devised a mixed-reality strategy that bridges the gap between simulation and real-world testing. Recognizing that real-world testing, while ideal, is often impractical, hazardous, and expensive, my approach integrates virtual elements into real physical environments. This allows for validating performance and safety while reducing both cost and time. Additionally, I designed a haptic suit for drones, enabling us to test the physical semantics of a drone by applying forces to the drone in the real world.

Regarding Test Coverage, I created Physical Coverage, one of the first coverage metrics for autonomous systems, which considers both the physical environment and physical semantics of the autonomous system. Utilizing physical reachability analysis and geometric vectorization, this metric offers a quantifiable measure of test suite effectiveness. It has proven instrumental in identifying missing scenarios and redundant tests in datasets such as Waymo's Open Perception dataset.

By addressing these challenges across the entire testing pipeline, this dissertation takes a significant step toward creating safer and more reliable autonomous systems.

Committee :

Matthew Dwyer, Committee Chair (CS/SEAS/UVA)
Sebastian Elbaum, Advisor (CS/SEAS/UVA)
Seongkook Heo, (CS/SEAS/UVA)
Nicola Bezzo (ESE,ECE/SEAS/UVA)
Borislava Simidchieva (BBN, Raytheon)

Ph.D. Student Isabelle Rathbun Receives Department of Defense Fellowship

Isabelle Rathbun , a computer science Ph.D. student at the University of Maryland, has been awarded a National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate (NDSEG) fellowship by the Department of Defense for her research in artificial intelligence within the computer vision and sensor fusion domains. Rathbun was one of 165 individuals from 68 institutions nationwide to receive a three-year NDSEG fellowship this year.

The NDSEG Fellowship program, established by Congress, aims to increase the number of U.S. citizens earning doctoral degrees in science and engineering fields critical to national defense. The program supports students pursuing advanced education in these areas through competitive fellowship opportunities.

The fellowship covers all tuition, mandatory fees, and health insurance, provides a monthly stipend and includes a travel budget for professional development.

“I am honored to have this opportunity as a first-year student,” Rathbun said. “I look forward to taking advantage of NDSEG's resources over the next three years. This support will help me pursue impactful research while building new connections and professional relationships.”

Rathbun's research aims to create more reliable and resilient AI systems, focusing on sensor fusion algorithms central to modern robotics and autonomous navigation systems. By combining complementary sources of information, such as lidar and cameras, sensor fusion allows these systems to perform high-level tasks, like navigation, more effectively than with any single modality alone. However, adding sensors also introduces additional points of failure.

Her research addresses these critical challenges in autonomous systems, aiming to enhance their robustness and reliability.

"Isabelle's research will characterize the performance of sensor fusion algorithms in the presence of failed sensors," said Christopher Metzler , Department of Computer Science assistant professor and Rathbun’s advisor. "She will then develop novel, human-in-the-loop techniques to mitigate the impact of sensor failures. Her research will thus improve the reliability, performance and safety of future autonomous navigation and robotics systems."

In the future, Rathbun plans to continue her research beyond her doctoral studies.

"After I complete my Ph.D., I intend to pursue research in an environment where there is the opportunity for positive impact and pushing the boundaries of cutting-edge research,” Rathbun shared. “I plan to continue developing safer and more reliable technology for public use and deployment, such as in autonomous vehicles and improving their performance in real-world environments with increased uncertainty.”

The NDSEG Fellowship program is critical in workforce development for STEM fields. Since its inception in 1989, the program has awarded nearly 4,700 fellowships from over 70,000 applications.

—Story by Samuel Malede Zewdu, CS Communications

The Department welcomes comments, suggestions and corrections. Send email to editor [-at-] cs [dot] umd [dot] edu .

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UFC 302 -- Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier: Results, highlights, fight card, winners, complete guide

Makhachev retained his title with a nasty submission in the main event from newark, new jersey.

The champ is still in charge after UFC 302. Islam Makhachev managed to retain his lightweight title in a brutal battle with Dustin Poirier in the main event on Saturday night in Newark, New Jersey. Makhahcev extended his winning streak to 14 with a D'Arce choke in the fifth round that seemed to come out of nowhere.

Poirier put up a valiant effort in defeat. The native of Louisiana fell short in his third attempt to become champion, but put on arguably his best performance in a title fight to date. Poirier managed to keep Makhachev off of him for long stretches of the fight and fought him on even terms on the feet. Despite getting his back taken in Round 1, Poirier stayed calmed and defended well. He just couldn't come up with a defense for the final choke as Makhachev rushed in and put him out cold.

Poirier continued to tease retirement after the fight as he had all week, noting that this may be the last time we see him in the Octagon. "The Diamond" will go down as one of the best fighters in promotional history to never earn undisputed gold.

Elsewhere on the card, Sean Strickland kept himself in title contention with a win over Paulo Costa in the co-main event. Strickland controlled the entirety of the fight and the split-decision distinction is a bit misleading. The former champion called for a title shot next after not getting an immediate rematch with Dricus du Plessis after his loss in January. Plus, Kevin Holland is back to doing Kevin Holland things as the veteran submitted Michal Oleksiejczuk with an armbar that appeared to snap his opponent's arm.

CBS Sports was with you throughout fight week with the latest news, in-depth features and betting advice to consider. Thanks for stopping by and we'll see you at UFC 303 and the return of Conor McGregor in Las Vegas.

UFC 302 fight card, odds

Islam Makhachev (c) def. Dustin Poirier via fifth-round submission (d'arce choke)
Sean Strickland def. Paulo Costa via split decision (46-49, 50-45, 49-46)
Kevin Holland def. Michal Oleksiejczuk via first-round submission (armbar)
Niko Price def. Alex Morono via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Randy Brown def. Elizeu Zaleski via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Roman Kopylov def. Cesar Almeida via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 30-27)
Jailton Almeida def. Alexandr Romanov via first-round submission (rear-naked choke)
Grant Dawson def. Joe Solecki via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)
Jake Matthews def. Phil Rowe via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)
Bassil Hafez def. Mickey Gall via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Ailin Perez def. Joselyne Edwards via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Andre Lima def. Mitch Raposo via split decision (30-27, 28-29, 30-27)

UFC 302 countdown

Staff predictions and expert picks for the main card
Brookhouse: Bet bets to consider on the main card
Arman Tsarukyan provides his prediction for main event of UFC 302
Strickland believes UFC didn't want him as champion: 'They hate it, but they accept it'
Campbell: Poirier continues pursuit of elusive title
Mahjouri: Undercard fights to watch in New Jersey
Khabib back in Makhachev's corner for latest title defense
Poirier considering retirement after UFC 302
Poirier plans to leave Makhachev unconscious in main event
Campbell: Five biggest storylines to watch in New Jersey

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Holland snaps Oleksiejczuk's arm in win

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Brent brookhouse • 7 min read.

UFC 302 viewing information, live stream

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News and Events /
Latest News /

EU Defence Ministers approve reinforced mandate for EDA

AN AGENCY FIT FOR THE FUTURE

Ministers of Defence endorsed an update of the Agency’s mandate to fully reflect the deteriorated security environment in Europe and the evolving role of the Agency within the EU defence landscape, marking 20 years since its establishment. Reflecting the dramatic geopolitical changes since 2017, when the last iteration of the LTR was approved, the 2024 LTR outlines how the Agency can support Ministries of Defence (MoDs) along all the capability development cycle, including limited off-the-shelf acquisitions, when Member States so decide.

The LTR also bolsters EDA role to voice MoDs’ joint positions at EU level and ensure the coherent alignment of current and future EU defence initiatives, policies, and legislation. The LTR also calls for the Agency to reinforce mutually beneficial cooperation with NATO through the conclusion of an Administrative Arrangement and fully leverage synergies with EU stakeholders to reflect defence needs.

Head of European Defence Agency and HR/VP, Josep Borrell said: “The European Defence Agency must have a more strategic role if we want to live up to the level of ambition that we have set for EU Defence in the Strategic Compass. The EU needs to develop defence capabilities to address the full range of threats we are facing. With a stronger and clearer vision, focused on capability development and the launch of concrete projects, the Agency can play a key role in building stronger and better equipped armed forces.”

EDA Chief Executive, Jiří Šedivý said : “This renewed and strengthened mandate ensures that Ministries of Defence have an Agency that is fit for the future. Ministers of Defence have endorsed a review that enhances the Agency’s ambitions, visibility, and support for Member States. With expanded tasks and a stronger intergovernmental voice, Ministers signal the Agency's crucial role in bolstering EU defence capabilities.”

INITIAL LOOK AT THE CARD(s) AND MARKING 20 YEARS OF EDA

Ministers were also presented with a preliminary assessment on the possible actionable collaborative opportunities stemming from the third CARD cycle. This Steering Board was used as an opportunity to allow Ministers to provide early guidance to help sharpen and finalise the opportunities to be highlighted in the final CARD Report which will be presented in November.

Before the Steering Board was formally opened, Head of Agency, Josep Borrell, and EDA Chief Executive, Jiří Šedivý and Deputy Chief Executive, André Denk, marked the 20 th anniversary of the establishment of the Agency. Created in 2004, EDA has played a pivotal role in greater European defence cooperation, and made tangible contributions to EU defence planning, capabilities, training and innovations.

Further information

2024 EDA Long Term Review Document
Fact Sheet – EDA Long Term Review
Timeline – EDA 20 Years Promoting European Defence Cooperation

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