Details

Get ready for your doctoral defense (EN)

Your dissertation is (almost) submitted? Then it’s time to prepare for your doctoral defense. This workshop helps you prepare effectively and build the confidence to present your work clearly and convincingly on the day of your defense.

We start by exploring how a doctoral defense is typically structured at German universities and what examiners are looking for. Together, we identify common questions and discuss and practice ways to respond clearly, confidently, and convincingly. During the second part of the workshop, you will apply what you’ve learned in a mock defense. You will present your work, respond to questions, and receive detailed feedback on your presentation and discussion skills in a small and supportive setting.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop, you will:

• understand the purpose and typical structure of the doctoral defense;
• prepare effectively for a discussion of your research;
• know what kinds of questions to expect from examiners;
• feel confident responding to critical or challenging questions;
• identify your strengths and areas to improve in both presentation and discussion.

Methods:

Short input sessions, individual and group work, mock defense, and structured feedback.

Registration Information:

Please register only if you are able to attend both workshop days in full.
Registration is binding. Cancellation is possible until 21 September 2026; late cancellations or failure to attend will incur a fee of €30 (in justified cases, the Graduate School may waive the fee).

Back to listview