The defense of your thesis
The defense is a scientific discussion with your examination committee. You will give a short presentation on your doctoral project and then answer questions by the committee.
The organization of your defense
- The defense is organized by you after the review of the dissertation has been completed
- The examination committee consists of all 4 reviewers of your dissertation.
- You will be notified by the MMRS of the names of the committee members once the review has been completed.
- You arrange the place and time of the defense with the members of the examination committee and inform the MMRS at least 3 weeks before the planned defense
- The MMRS requires: Place, room and time of the planned examination and information on whether and, if so, which of the committee members will be participating online.
- The official invitation to your disputation will be issued by the doctoral committee and sent out by the MMRS.
The examination proceedings
- Total duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
- a 45-minute presentation of the dissertation
- 30 to 60 min examination discussion led by the chair of the examination committee
- The examination session mainly deals with topics and questions that are factually or methodologically related to the dissertation.
- The defense and the subsequent examination interview are held in English
- Guests: Guests are only permitted for examinations that are held entirely in person. The discussion of the grade and its announcement are not public.
More questions?
You have any questions? Just have a look at our FAQs. If you cannot find the answers to your questions there, please contact your program coordinator.
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