The Doctorate Board is amending the PhD regulations, effectively abolishing the cum laude distinction. Originally intended to recognise dissertations of ‘excellent scientific quality’, the designation is deemed to be based on subjective judgement. Moreover, it ‘systematically disadvantages female PhD candidates’, rector Tom Veldkamp told the University Council on Wednesday morning.
Layperson’s talk
Another notable change concerns the PhD defence ceremony itself, as outlined in this announcement on the UT service portal. Previously, the layperson’s talk was not part of the official ceremony and did not require the presence of the committee. That will change: the layperson’s talk will now be included in the defence, which will last one hour in total. All committee members, including external ones, will wear academic regalia. This is a result of the recent expansion of the right to confer doctorates.
Overhaul of assessment process
In addition to abolishing the cum laude distinction and revising the ceremony, the Doctorate Board is making further changes to the regulations. A formal supervisory team will be introduced, consisting of one main supervisor and up to three co-supervisors. One member of this team will be designated as the daily supervisor, serving as the primary contact for the PhD student. This aims to clarify roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
The dissertation assessment process will also be revised. The updated regulations distinguish between a manuscript committee – which evaluates the draft dissertation – and a doctoral degree committee. The latter includes the manuscript committee, supplemented by a chairperson, the supervisory team, and any ‘special opponents’. A rubric with five assessment criteria will help the committee evaluate dissertations in a ‘consistent and transparent’ manner.
New documentation requirements
PhD candidates will also be required to submit new documents. These include an author’s declaration, outlining their individual contribution to the dissertation, and a research data management statement, providing insight into the research data.
The changes will take effect on 1 January, although some provisions will be subject to transitional arrangements.
