Writing propositions for your PhD

A PhD degree at Wageningen University can only be obtained when the thesis is accompanied by a set of 6-8 propositions. These propositions are submitted together with the reading version of the thesis and are evaluated by the academic board. When not approved the thesis cannot be defended. Hence it is essential that PhD candidates are well aware of the rules, regulations, does and don’ts regarding the propositions.

This short workshop discusses the propositions of the PhD thesis at Wageningen University. Besides a lecture on propositions, participants can submit their (draft) propositions which will be presented and discussed.

Given that it requires time and thought to write good propositions, it is highly recommended to start working on propositions from the onset of the PhD and therefore also follow this workshop early in the PhD.

 

General Information

 

Programme

15 minutes	Coffee/tea and registration
60 minutes	Propositions part I: Introduction & Sub groups After the introduction you will discuss a number of submitted (draft) propositions in a group of 4/5 fellow participants and come up with suggestions for improvement.
15 minutes	Break
60 minutes	Propositions part II: Reflection on your own proposition Plenary part where your group presents the suggestions for improvement per (draft) proposition and on which the entire group and the trainer reflect.

 

Rules from the Conferral Regulations regarding Propositions

The Dean of Science has to approve the propositions of PhD candidates and is increasingly confronted with propositions that do not meet the requirements. We want to point out that it is the responsibility of the doctoral supervisor to take care that the propositions meet the set requirements as described in the Doctorate Conferral Regulations. The requirements are repeated below:

• The evaluation of the propositions takes place by reviewing them according to the requirements in Articles 12.3, 14.1 and 14.3, and according to general principles of morality and decency. (Article 9.4)

• At least six, and no more than eight, propositions are added to the thesis. Two of the propositions concern the topic of the thesis or the technological design, two to four propositions concern a different scientific field and two propositions concern a socially relevant topic. Propositions are concisely worded positions taken by the PhD candidate that are formulated in such a way that they can be debated at a scientific level and consist of one sentence. (Article 12.3)

• The thesis is written in either Dutch or English. (Article 14.1)

• The propositions are formulated in the same language as that in which the thesis is written. (Article 14.3)

 

Fee

The workshop is free of charge, but note the cancellation conditions below. Cancelling or no-show without a valid reason is NOT free of charge.
 

Cancellation conditions

Until 1 month before the start of the course, you can cancel free of charge. If you cancel after this date:

• When you do not have a valid reason or do not show up, you will be charged with € 50.
• When you have a valid reason (circumstances beyond your control), you will not be charged. In this case a written statement of the supervisor/superior is required.

Note: If you would like to cancel your registration, ALWAYS inform us. Someone else may still be able to take your spot.

Information

For more information please contact wgscourses@wur.nl