Obtaining a doctorate degree is an important and crucial stage in the career of every researcher. This process involves writing and defending a dissertation that demonstrates the results of all the work done. There are many aspects that affect the success of the defence: from choosing a topic to structuring the material. In this article, we will review the main requirements for writing a doctoral dissertation and give you tips to help you pass this important stage on your way to scientific recognition.
Requirements for writing a doctoral dissertation
1. Academic degree
Obtaining the highest academic degree – a doctorate – involves a consistent path of scientific growth. The first stage of this process is obtaining a PhD. You can learn more about the requirements for writing a qualifying paper for this degree in our article.
Only after five years of active research activity, which is confirmed by significant publications and scientific achievements, a researcher can submit his or her dissertation for a doctorate. This approach ensures that candidates for this degree are true experts in their field, capable of conducting original research.
2. Scientific publications
In order to be admitted to the doctoral dissertation defence, an applicant must provide a list of his or her publications containing research results. The Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 1197 states that scientific publications include:
- at least three publications on the topic of the doctoral dissertation in journals classified as the first or second quartile (Q1, Q2) according to the SCImago Journal and Country Rank or Journal Citation Reports (except for publications of a state recognised by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine as an aggressor state)
- articles in scientific periodicals included in the list of scientific professional publications of Ukraine in the field of science in which the dissertation was prepared;
- articles in scientific periodicals of other states in the field of science in which the dissertation was prepared (except for publications of a state recognised by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine as an aggressor state).
It should be noted that in order to obtain the doctoral degree, it is mandatory to have scientific publications on the topic of the dissertation in scientific journals indexed in international databases such as Web of Science and/or Scopus.
3. Testing of results
Approbation – is a comprehensive evaluation of dissertation materials by leading scientists in a particular field. It allows to get feedback from experts, identify possible shortcomings and correct them in a timely manner. For researchers wishing to obtain a doctoral degree, passing the examination is a mandatory stage of preparation for the defence of their research.
For a specialised academic council, approbation is evidence that the research has passed the stages of independent examination and verification, which increases confidence in the results and their scientific value.
What are the forms of approbation?
- reviewing the results of work by reputable scientists;
- consultations with colleagues, practitioners and representatives of the scientific community;
- participation in symposia and scientific seminars;
- publication of research results in peer-reviewed scientific journals;
- presentation of the applicant's reports and their discussion at scientific conferences.
4. Work structure
According to the requirements set out in the Order of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine No. 40, a doctoral dissertation must contain the following structural elements
- title page;
- abstract (full name of the applicant; title of the work; type of dissertation and academic degree; speciality; name of the educational institution or institutions where the training was carried out, and the defence will take place; city; year)
- table of contents;
- list of symbols (if necessary);
- main part (introduction, chapters, conclusions);
- list of references;
- appendices (formulas and calculations, tables of auxiliary data, illustrations, descriptions of algorithms, etc.)
Tips for writing a doctoral dissertation
- Research topic. Choose a relevant and original topic that has scientific novelty and practical significance.
- Answers to opponents. Before the defence, you should read in detail the feedback from your opponents on your dissertation and prepare answers to possible questions. This will allow you not only to confidently respond to comments, but also to demonstrate competence and knowledge of the research topic.
- Rehearsals. Rehearsals will not only help you to fit into the regulated presentation time (15–20 minutes), but also reduce anxiety before the presentation, allowing you to present your results confidently and clearly.
- Citation. Pay attention to the correct citation in your paper. Incorrect citation of the work of other researchers may be considered a violation of academic integrity. That is why it is necessary to carefully check the compliance of the references with the applicable regulatory requirements.
- Consultations with the supervisor. Regular consultations with your supervisor are an important element of the successful completion of your dissertation. They allow you to receive constructive advice and recommendations that help you improve your research at different stages of its writing.
Working on a doctoral dissertation is a complex and responsible process that requires careful preparation, deep knowledge and discipline. However, adherence to the above requirements and systematic work will help you successfully complete this stage.
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