Public examination and grading
By selecting a degree programme you are able to see the general content as well as the possible degree programme-specific content. You do not have to select a degree programme to see the Open University's instructions.
Search for degree programme
When you search for a degree programme by name or by part of the name the options in the list of degree programmes below the search field is narrowed down. After this you have to choose the degree programme from the list.
Open University programmes
Bachelor's Programmes
Master's and Licentiate's Programmes
Doctoral Programmes
Specialist training programmes
Under this theme, you will find instructions on arranging the public examination and the grading of doctoral dissertations. Instructions on attaining permission for a public defence and publishing doctoral dissertations and instructions pertaining to doctoral graduation are available under separate themes.
Instructions
Arranging the public defence
On this page you will find information on how to arrange your public defence.
At the public examination
The public examination follows an old academic tradition. On this page, you will find information on the proceedings and the protocol of the event.
Costs related to defending your thesis
There are many kind of expenses related to publishing and defending your doctoral thesis. Some of the costs are covered by the university, but some are your own responsibility. For some expenses, the university offers financial support.
Grading the dissertation
After the public examination and the submission of the required statements, the Faculty Council will approve and grade the doctoral dissertation on a scale of fail, pass and pass with distinction. The statements provided by the opponent and the grading committee will be