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20 Gift Ideas for a PhD Defense

Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in this post may be "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Disclosure in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's  16 CFR, Part 255 . This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon .

Gift ideas for a PhD defense are meaningful and thoughtful sentiments that the recipient will love. If someone you know is about to go through a PhD defense process, then getting them a gift to celebrate that step in their education is a great way to show you care. There are many ideas for this occasion, and lots of them are listed here. Imagine the look on their face when they see the gift you got them and how much you support them in their achievements.

Gift Ideas For A PhD Defense To Celebrate!

Celebrate such a great time in your loved one’s life! These presents are impressive. 

“I just became a PhD. What have you done lately?” Mug

After they have finished their PhD defense and have become a PhD, this is the mug for them to celebrate with.

Funny PhD Checklist Shirt

Sometimes a little humor goes a long way, and if they are nervous, they will appreciate a laugh.

Personalized Graduation Christmas Ornament

When they are done, this ornament is something that will continuously remind them of how far they have come and all they have accomplished.

“The Dr.” Wine Glass

“The Dr.” wants a glass of wine!

“You are braver than you believe…” Burlap Quote Print

Remind them that they are braver than they believe, stronger than they seem, and smarter than they think, with this burlap quote print. Not only that, but they are loved more than they could possibly know.

“Congrats Doc” Wine Gift Bag

Congratulate them for a job well done with wine in this awesome “Congrats Doc” wine bag.

“Miss. Mrs. Ms. Dr.” Tote Bag

Not a Miss, Mrs., or a Ms., but a Dr.!

“So koalified” Mug

After completing their PhD defense, they are “so koalified” and ready to take on the world.

“Things NOT to ask a PhD student” Shirt

These are the things that everyone should know not to ask a PhD student, or someone who has recently finished their education.

“Remember who you are” Candle

They always need to remember who they are, even as their life evolves.

“Just be you” Aluminum Circle

A PhD defense seems overwhelming, so remind them to just be themselves. They are valuable and wise just as they are.

“Confidence booster” Wine Glass

Wine is a confidence booster, after all.

“Pursue the dream that sets your soul on fire” Mug

Make sure they know that you fully support them in every step they take because you want them to pursue the dreams that set their soul on fire.

“Go-getter” Shirt

They are definitely a go-getter if they are facing their PhD defense.

“Always believe in you” Compact Mirror

They must always believe in themselves, but sometimes they need to know that someone else believes in them too. This compact mirror with the quote, “always believe in you,” will help them see that.

Custom Bracelet Cuff

Have their name, preceded by “Dr.” put on this custom bracelet cuff, or a special quote, whatever you think they will like.

“Determined women get things done” Mug

Determined women power through life’s challenges and get things done.

Peace-N-Harmony Rollerball

The Peace-N-Harmony rollerball will help them ease their nerves and face the PhD defense with a clearer head.

“Dr.” Personalized Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Make sure they stay hydrated with their brand new “Dr.” personalized stainless steel water bottle at hand.

“Living the dream” Shirt

They are surely living the dream. Don’t ever let them forget that!

This terrific list of gift ideas for a PhD defense is sure to be loved! As they face their PhD defense, they may be nervous, worried, stressed, you name it! However, with a gift and a kind word from you, they will have more confidence and be ready to tackle the defense with determination.

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Celebrating a Successful Thesis Defense: Gift Ideas for Grad Students

Published December 13, 2023 at 11:03 pm

Gearing up to celebrate a momentous academic milestone? Dive into our curated list of thoughtful and inspiring gift ideas to honor the hard work and dedication of a graduate student after a triumphant thesis defense.

Creative and Thoughtful Gifts for Newly Minted Scholars

Graduating from a graduate program is no small feat, and successfully defending a thesis marks the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and intellectual rigor. Finding the perfect gift to celebrate such an achievement can be a challenge. As family, friends, or colleagues, you want to honor this significant milestone with a token that is both meaningful and useful for the newly minted scholar. Here are some top gift ideas that are sure to resonate with grad students who have just cleared this pivotal academic hurdle.

Timeless Jewelry to Mark a Momentous Occasion

When it comes to commemorating a successful thesis defense, jewelry often stands out as a classic and elegant choice. A piece like the David Yurman Cable Classics Bracelet serves as a sophisticated and stylish symbol of their hard-won victory. This designer bracelet is crafted with sterling silver and 18-karat gold, and its iconic cable design makes it suitable for both men and women. Many wearers appreciate the versatility and durability of this piece, making it an excellent everyday accessory as well as a special occasion treasure.

• Suits both casual and formal styles
• High-quality materials ensure longevity
• Unisex design broadens gift appeal
• Premium brand comes with a higher price tag
• Size may vary, so ensure you know the recipient’s preferences

Functional yet Fashionable Bags for Professionals

No graduate student can ever have too many bags, especially those that transition smoothly between academic and professional settings. Take the Tumi Alpha 3 Brief Pack , for example, this backpack is an amalgamation of form and function—it perfectly accommodates the needs of the academic transitioning to a professional sphere. Made from ultra-durable ballistic nylon, the Alpha 3 includes a padded laptop compartment, multiple interior and exterior pockets for organization, and even a waterproof pocket for an umbrella or water bottle.

• Exceptional organizational features
• Premium build quality and durability
• Modern and professional aesthetic
• May be priced higher than other options
• Design might be too bulky for some users’ tastes

Bookends for the Scholar’s Library

A set of stylish bookends is a practical yet thoughtful gift for a grad student who has spent countless hours with their nose in books. Consider the Artori Design “Supershelf” bookend which creates the illusion of books floating above a superhero silhouette. This unique and eye-catching design not only adds character to a home library but also serves as an engaging conversation piece. It is sturdy enough to hold several books and made of metal to ensure the durability of this decorative item.

• Innovative and fun design
• Sturdy construction holds books securely
• Compact size suitable for various spaces
• Only holds a limited number of books compared to larger bookends
• The design may not appeal to all tastes

Luxury Pens for Signing Future Milestones

A high-quality writing instrument is not just a gift, it is a statement. A selection like the Montblanc Meisterstück Classique ballpoint pen is a perfect example of luxury meeting practicality. With its renowned craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the unmistakable elegance of its black resin and gold or platinum accents, this pen is a gift that the recipient can use for years to come. Owners of the Meisterstück often note the comfortable weight and balance of the pen as well as the smooth ink flow that makes writing an absolute pleasure.

• Elegance and an enduring symbol of success
• Exceptional craftsmanship and quality
• Ideal for professional and personal use
• Extension of the luxury branding, which comes with a corresponding price
• Requires maintenance to keep in pristine condition

Personalized Stationery for a Touch of Class

Personalized stationery is a timeless gift that conveys thoughtfulness and an attention to detail. A set from a premium brand like Papier allows you to pick from an array of designs and monogram options. Custom notecards, letter paper, or notebooks can have the graduate’s name, initials, or a personal message. Notably, personalized stationery stands out in our digital age, giving the graduate a way to make a memorable impression with handwritten notes.

• Offers a personal touch with custom options
• Enables recipients to correspond in style
• Practical for both professional and personal use
• May not suit those who prefer digital communication
• Can take time to produce and deliver custom orders

Smart Gadgets to Enhance Productivity

In today’s tech-driven world, a smart gadget can be a perfect gift to help a grad student stay connected and productive as they transition into the next phase of their career. A device like the Amazon Echo Show 8 could be a fantastic addition to their home or office, offering a variety of uses from managing to-do lists to video calling. Users often praise the Echo Show for its intuitive interface and the helpfulness of Alexa for setting reminders and keeping track of tasks.

• Integrates with various smart products and services
• High-quality video and audio capabilities
• User-friendly interface with Alexa voice control
• Requires a steady Wi-Fi connection
• Some may have privacy concerns with smart devices

Home Office Enhancements for the Productive Scholar

An ergonomic office chair or a height-adjustable desk can make a significant difference in a graduate student’s life, providing comfort and productivity as they move into their professional careers. The Herman Miller Aeron Chair is an investment in their health and work. Recognized for its ergonomic design, adjustable settings, and breathable mesh, it’s a favorite among professionals who spend long hours seated. Reviewers often highlight the improved posture and reduced back pain thanks to features like the PostureFit SL spinal support and the fully adjustable arms.

• Exceptional ergonomic support
• Fully adjustable to fit various body types
• Durable and comes with a 12-year warranty
• High-end office furniture comes with a significant cost
• Design may not be preferred by those looking for more traditional office furniture

For those who prefer standing while working or like the flexibility to alternate between sitting and standing, the Fully Jarvis Bamboo Standing Desk is a superb choice. Users appreciate the sturdiness and the sleek aesthetic of the bamboo top, not to mention the programmable handset that allows for easy height adjustments. This standing desk promotes movement and can help reduce the risks associated with prolonged sitting during those long hours of writing and research.

• Eco-friendly bamboo construction
• Customizable height settings
• Stable and strong desk frame
• Assembly required, which might be a bit complex for some
• Higher price point compared to standard desks

Subscriptions and Memberships for Continued Learning

For the inquisitive graduate who thrives on continuous learning and self-improvement, a gift subscription to services like MasterClass or Audible could be rewarding. Through MasterClass, they can access classes taught by world-renowned experts in various fields, from writing to cooking to science. Audible offers a vast selection of audiobooks, podcasts, and more that the recipient can listen to while on the go. Both services provide invaluable opportunities for lifelong learning and intellectual stimulation.

• Wide range of topics and high-quality content
• Flexible learning at the recipient’s pace
• Accessible on multiple devices
• Subscription-based, requires recurring payments
• May not be useful for those who prefer traditional books or in-person courses

Artwork to Inspire and Personalize Living Spaces

A carefully selected piece of art can transform a living space and provide daily inspiration. Websites like Artfinder or Society6 offer a variety of original artworks from independent artists around the world, allowing you to choose something that truly resonates with the graduate’s personality and tastes. From vibrant paintings to thought-provoking prints, the right piece of art can be a powerful and personal gift that celebrates their accomplishments and bright future.

• Supports independent artists
• Wide variety of styles, sizes, and mediums
• Art can be a very personal and enduring gift
• Art is subjective, and tastes can vary greatly
• High-quality pieces can be quite expensive

Experiences That Enrich and Delight

Instead of a tangible gift, consider the gift of an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s a hot air balloon ride, a culinary workshop, or a weekend retreat, websites like Viator and Airbnb Experiences allow you to book a huge array of activities and trips. Such experiences can provide much-needed relaxation or a thrilling adventure, creating memories that last far longer than any physical item ever could.

• Creates memorable and enriching experiences
• Can serve as a break after the intensive thesis period
• Suitable for a wide range of interests and hobbies
• Experiences are time-bound and not tangible
• May require scheduling in advance and could be subject to availability

Quality Coffeemakers for Energizing Mornings

Many graduate students rely on caffeine to fuel their long days and nights of studying. An upscale coffeemaker like the Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine can be an indulgent yet practical gift. The Bambino Plus earns praise for its quick heat-up time, automatic milk texturing, and the ability to pull rich, flavorful shots of espresso. Being able to craft café-quality drinks at home can be the perfect way for the graduate to start their mornings or take a well-deserved break during their day.

• Easy to use with a compact design
• Automatic steam wand for milk texturing
• Heats up quickly for on-the-go convenience
• Pricey compared to standard coffeemakers
• Requires some maintenance for optimal performance

Durable and Educational Board Games for Strategic Fun

Gifting a graduate student a board game might seem unconventional, but the right game can serve as a valuable tool for strategic thinking while also providing a fun reprieve from the demands of academic life. Consider a game like Settlers of Catan – a classic in strategic gameplay that fosters critical thinking, resource management, and social interaction. The beauty of games like Catan is they not only offer a way to unwind and socialize, but they also keep the player’s mind engaged in a competitive yet friendly environment.

• Enhances critical thinking and strategy skills
• Facilitates social interaction and friendly competition
• Durable components ensure longevity of the game
• May be too complex for those not interested in strategy games
• Longer gameplay may not suit every group or occasion

Indulgent Spa Packages for Total Relaxation

After the stress and exertion of a doctoral program, a spa package can provide an oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you book a day of pampering at a local luxury spa or gift a subscription to a massage service like Soothe , this type of gift can offer the graduate a chance to unwind, de-stress, and celebrate their accomplishment in a serene setting. Clients have often remarked on the restorative benefits of such experiences, noting how a massage or facial can drastically reduce stress levels and improve overall wellbeing.

• Provides much-needed relaxation and stress relief
• Can improve overall health and wellbeing
• Offers a variety of services tailored to individual preferences
• Can be quite expensive, depending on the services chosen
• May require scheduling far in advance, especially at sought-after locations

In conclusion, celebrating a successful thesis defense with a thoughtful and well-considered gift is a wonderful way to recognize the immense effort and dedication of a graduate student. Whether you choose a timeless piece of jewelry like the David Yurman Cable Classics Bracelet , a professional and functional Tumi Alpha 3 Brief Pack , the whimsical yet useful Artori Design “Supershelf” bookend, a statement of luxury with the Montblanc Meisterstück Classique pen, personalized Papier stationery, a tech-savvy Amazon Echo Show 8 , an ergonomic Herman Miller Aeron Chair or a flexible Fully Jarvis Bamboo Standing Desk , subscriptions like MasterClass or Audible , inspiring pieces of art from Artfinder or Society6 , enriching experiences through Viator and Airbnb Experiences , the energizing Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine, a strategic board game such as Settlers of Catan , or a spa package for ultimate relaxation, the ideal gift should align with the graduate’s interests and needs as they embark on the next chapter of their life.

Remember, the aim is not just to celebrate their academic achievements, but also to provide something that will continue to encourage, support, and inspire them. Whether that means investing in their professional setup, enhancing their learning opportunities, or simply helping them to relax and enjoy the moment, the perfect gift will reflect your understanding of their journey and your confidence in their future success. Congratulations to all recent grads on their defense, and may their years of hard work be met with joy, success, and the perfect gift to start the next adventure!

Avery Ingram

Contributor

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12 Best PhD Gifts for Doctoral Students (in 2024)

by Derek Miller 6 min read

If you just try searching "PhD Graduation Gifts" on Amazon, you'll get a page full of mugs, shirts and keychains. They deserve better. I’ve been through grad school, got my PhD, and have a good idea of what they would truly appreciate as a thank-you gift. Here’s my hand-picked list below. 

This list is a compilation of my favorites from around the internet. Some are our own Genius Lab Gear inventions and some we’re just jealous we didn’t think of first! Some external links in this page are from affiliates, which means that any purchase of the items after clicking the link will result in a small monetary referral fee paid back to Genius Lab Gear at no cost to you. We appreciate your support which allows us to continue inventing and testing the best tools for scientists on the planet!

1. Academia Word Magnets

Academia is chock full of inside jokes, mannerisms, and cringeworthy habits that grad students and professors love to laugh about. These word magnets are designed specifically to let academics rant about their hardships, relish their big wins, and have a good laugh. These are perfect for the office refrigerator or the magnetic whiteboard, where colleagues can leave passive-aggressive phrases for lab mates to find later.  Get them on our site here  and bundle them with  other field-specific sets  based on the graduate's field of study.

2. The Pocket Scientist pocket ruler and equation reference

Whether they're climbing the academic latter or heading out to the "real world", they can carry this credit card-sized ruler and scientific reference every day. We even laser-engraved the backside full of basic science equations and physical constants.  See the product page  for a full list of features we've packed in!

Available from  our website  or  from Amazon .

The Pocket Scientist at Genius Lab Gear

The Pocket Scientist on Amazon

How to use The Pocket Scientist – Full Feature Guide

P.S. We also have versions specifically for  Chemists ,  Physicists  and  Engineers  if those are a better fit for the person you have in mind!

3. Rocketbook Matrix cloud-connected reusable paper notebook

PhD students do a lot of work both on paper and with software. Rocketbook finally solved the problem of merging your hand-written notes into your favorite digital services. You simply use their app to take a photo of your pages of notes and the QR code and marked symbols on each page trigger the app to send the digitized page to any of the 9 pre-set digital destinations you choose. This includes OneNote, Evernote, Google Drive, Dropbox, and even specific emails. Want a shortcut to send notes via email straight to your colleague or boss? This is what you’re looking for.

The Rocketbook Matrix is my personal favorite because it's designed for more technical scientific work. It's got 30 pages of graphing paper and one regular lined page for taking notes, plus a built-in ruler on the inside cover. Did I mention they are reusable? Use their " Pilot Frixion " pens and then wipe the page with a damp cloth after uploading your notes to use it all over again (and win one for the environment!). 

Usually, the best price is  on Amazon .

4. Wireless Laser Pointer and PowerPoint Presenter

Laser pointers are one thing you never think about until the moment you don’t have one that works. I personally  own this one  because it’s got everything you need, from the pen clip to volume buttons and slide control buttons. DinoFire has several tiers with different features, but you can’t go wrong with any of them. 

5. rOtring or Staedtler Mechanical Pencil

Mechanical pencils are an essential daily tool for researchers in STEM on the job and in the classroom. But in the new digital age, they often find themselves using touchscreens as well. 

That’s why my new favorite is the rOtring 800 Retractable Mechanical Pencil, (0.5 mm) . This one turns from a pencil to a stylus on the fly, and also ensures the tip isn’t poking holes in your pocket all day like most other models. This is truly the top-end mechanical pencil and will make a special gift. 

Check price on Amazon

Staedtler is another brand much-loved by scientists and engineers. This model is cheaper and will last a long time, but just isn’t convertible to a stylus. You can’t go wrong with either one.

6. Oh, the Places You'll Go! By Dr. Seuss

This might seem like it’s only for kids, but Dr. Seuss’ whimsical wisdom is often applied to the biggest moments of our lives. As a graduation gift, it’s perfect. The timeless message focuses on the success that lies within, as your graduate readies for a new phase in life. Plus, it’s a small book they can keep forever to pass the wisdom on to their kids.

7. Funny Coloring Book for PhD Students and Graduates

These adult coloring books are a hit in many fields, and this one is meant specifically for those who know the struggle of getting a PhD . It’s snarky, fun, and an amazing creative outlet. The satisfaction of just coloring inside the lines versus writing a 300-page thesis is a welcome relief.

8. Scientist Quote Desktop Canvas

We're super proud of our  little series of famous scientist quotes on canvas prints . These are 5"x7" and sit up easily on their own or can be mounted to a wall. This one sits next to me as I write, and helps me keep a sense of humility as I explore the unknown! 

9. Modern Lab Coat Pocket Protector

This is how your PhD grad will know they’ve finally made it. The venerable Pocket Protector became a cultural icon in the 1960's and 1970's, but somewhere along the way the newer generation of STEM researchers forgot about them. Scientists need these back in their labs to stay organized, stay efficient, protect their lab coats, and finish their experiments without being late to lunch. So we researched and tested every type ever made to methodically solve each problem and come up with this refreshed design . Available in spruce green, sapphire blue, and faded pink - the top 3 colors voted on by our fans! You can even get it from our Amazon page if that's easier.

10. PhD Graduation Diploma Frame

They will definitely want to show off their hard work by displaying their newly minted Ph.D. diploma. This frame fits both 8.5”x11” and 11”x14” diplomas, which covers most institutions, and is the highest-rated frame on Amazon with many color choices. If they picked up a Masters degree along the way, you could grab the 2-pack so they can hang them both in their next office. 

11. Amazon.com Gift Card in a Graduation Style Gift Box

If you want them to make their own decision on a graduation gift, the easiest way is to just grab an Amazon gift card in this graduation-themed gift box . Pick any custom amount and they’ll usually get it to you within 2 days.

12. PhD Graduation Gift Bundle

If you can't decide by now, I can still help! Consider this decision made. I put together a  PhD Graduation Gift Bundle  just to make it easy for you. It includes PhD Self-Care and Academia-themed Word Magnets from above, plus a few fun science stickers. You'll save over 20% by bundling them together, so consider this decision made!

• PhD Self-Care Word Magnets
• Academia Word Magnets
• Science Basics Word Magnets
• Starter Word Magnets (144 tiles of connector words)
• Marie Curie sticker
• Science is for Everyone sticker
• Einstein quote sticker

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS):

What is the best graduation gift for doctoral students.

Getting a bachelor's degree is one thing, but getting a PhD takes a lot of hard work and dedication. PhD students deserve the best gifts and if you're looking for one, you should check out the following.

• The Pocket Scientist pocket ruler and equation reference
• Rocketbook Matrix Cloud-connected Reusable Paper Notebook
• Wireless Laser Pointer and Powerpoint presenter
• Rotring or Staedtler Mechanical Pencil
• Oh, the Places You'll Go! By Dr. Seuss
• Funny Coloring Book for PhD Students and Graduates
• Scientist Quote Desktop Canvas
• Modern Pocket Protector for lab coats
• PhD Graduation Diploma Frame
• Amazon.com Gift Card in a graduation style Gift Box
• PhD Graduation Gift Bundle

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Gifts for dissertation committee members, published by steve tippins on june 26, 2020 june 26, 2020.

Last Updated on: 2nd February 2024, 05:16 am

While getting gifts for dissertation committee members is not traditional, but it’s becoming more of the norm these days. If done properly, it can be a good way to say thank you to your committee members .

However, getting gifts for dissertation committee members is a fine line to walk. You don’t want to give them a new car. But you don’t want it to be a $5 Starbucks gift card leftover from your research either. 

Also, note that it’s important to give gifts AFTER completion of your degree. Giving gifts before your defense, for example, is inappropriate as it may come across as a bribe.

Here are some common gifts that are appropriate, relatively affordable, and will be appreciated by your committee members.

Nice Pens 

Fancy pens are a traditional gift. Because academics do a lot of writing, it’s an acknowledgment of the value of that work. While the actual use of pens these days has decreased, the tradition still stands. Here are some good options if you choose pens as your gifts for dissertation committee members.

• Mont Blanc–for example, the PIX Ballpoint Pen
• Cross– affordable quality pens
• The Wood Reserve– Custom Engraved Wooden Pen

Gift Certificates for Dinner

Gift certificates to a nice restaurant are also a good choice. It’s wise to make sure the person in question actually eats the type of food you’re getting them a gift certificate for. A vegan won’t be thrilled about receiving a gift certificate to a steakhouse.

Don’t spend too much on them, either. You’re a starving doctoral student, and your committee members understand that. Don’t go over $100 for a single gift certificate; less is perfectly fine too.

Funny Gifts

I’ve seen students give their committee members T-shirts that say things like, “I survived John’s dissertation committee.” Gifts like this are usually cheaper than many others. That said, use your discernment–they may not be appropriate for every person on your committee.

Meaningful Gifts

One of the best gifts for dissertation committee members is something that’s meaningful to them. If you have a special relationship with a member of your committee or have bonded over a shared love of something, you could get them something that represents that. For example, if you both like the same sports team, or both play golf, you could give them a football jersey or golf balls.

Joint Publishing

It has been an unwritten rule to put at least your committee Chair’s name on your first publication coming out of your dissertation. That can be very helpful to them because it may help them with annual evaluations at their school. 

Thanking your Committee Chair or other committee members through joint publication of research from your dissertation is a tangible and strong thank you. 

However, I would let them know beforehand that your intention is to do include their name as an author because some people may not want you to do that. For example, they may have a research stream that goes in a different direction and they don’t want that to look contradictory to their research stream.

Future Thank-Yous

Thank-yous can continue into the future. As you become a colleague, treat your former committee members of respect, and remind them of your gratitude for their assistance. You may find that they start seeking you out for research projects, or keeping you in mind when they hear about jobs. We (committee members) want to help people that we like.

Six years after my degree, a former committee member called me up and said, “I need a favor, are you publishing anything that I could put my name on?” He was coming up for an annual review and needed one more publication. I was very grateful for many things he did for me and I said “sure,” and let him pick a publication that was relevant to the research he was doing. 

The Importance of Thanking Your Committee Members

By handling thank-yous tastefully, you fully enter the community of academia. 

I’ve been Chair of a number of committees where the thank you was in the acknowledgments section and that’s it. That was fine, and I was happy for the students, but I don’t remember them particularly well–because I’m human.

Thank your committee members well–in a way that is genuine to you–and they will think well of you.

Final Thoughts

In addition to getting a gift, it’s important to send a thank-you note to your committee members and include them in the acknowledgments section of your dissertation .

Now that you have your degree and are moving into the world of an academic career, you will be met with a host of new challenges. If you’re looking for someone who knows the territory, feel free to take a look at my Academic Career Coaching services and reach out for a free 30-minute consultation .

Steve Tippins

Steve Tippins, PhD, has thrived in academia for over thirty years. He continues to love teaching in addition to coaching recent PhD graduates as well as students writing their dissertations. Learn more about his dissertation coaching and career coaching services. Book a Free Consultation with Steve Tippins

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Thesis Defense

Thesis and Oral Defense The final checkpoint in the MS program is the thesis defense, which is given in the student’s last semester. This defense is open to the public and is an in-depth explanation of the student’s MS research. The defense is the final examination in the Masters’s Thesis program. It can be broken down into three parts: a written exam, a public oral exam, and a closed oral exam.

Written Thesis The thesis manuscript serves as the written portion of the exam. The thesis’ contents, results, and conclusions associated with the student’s MS research are provided to the supervisory committee for their review and evaluation at least 2 weeks prior to the oral defense . For formatting and organization of the manuscript, please follow the  manuscript guidelines outlined by the Graduate School . At a minimum, the thesis must:

• Include a thesis summary that is a succinct description of a student’s accomplishments and the deliverables achieved.
• Reflect an understanding of the current and past state of knowledge in the chosen research area through a comprehensive literature review of the subject
• Clearly state the goals of the research and justify its value to the engineering and scientific community
• Demonstrate a fundamental and original contribution, which significantly advances engineering science in the chosen area of research

Oral Defense Format The student will coordinate the required public announcement and scheduling of the defense with the Robotics Graduate Coordinator. The chair of the student’s committee will also chair the defense. The chair will at a minimum:

• Open the defense session by introducing the student and their research topic.
• Announce any specific rules pertaining to the defense (e.g., hold questions until the end of the presentation).

The defense begins with the student’s presentation of their MS research for approximately 45 minutes. The student will be evaluated on presentation skills as well as the content. Members of the audience must be allowed ask the student relevant questions. After the public question-and-answer session, the audience will be excused. After the open portion of the exam, the closed oral exam begins. The committee may pursue additional discussion and questions with the student. The acceptability of the research effort, the content and conclusions of the thesis , and the student’s oral defense are considered along with other factors, as appropriate. The committee then dismisses the student and votes to determine whether the student passes the exam. The chair then meets with the student to inform him/her of the committee’s decision, and the reasons for that decision.

The outcome of the thesis defense is reported on the MS-Thesis Report of the Final Oral Exam form.

• The student will receive a “Pass” on the defense if the majority of the committee members concur.
• The student will receive a “Pass with Corrections” if the majority of the committee requires minor changes to the student’s Thesis but do not feel that the student needs to publicly defend their research again. In this case, the committee will also decide if the chair or the entire committee needs to verify that the requested changes have been made.
• The student will receive a “Fail” if the majority of the committee requires changes to the Thesis and agree that the student must publicly defend their research again.
• The chair of the committee must return the completed form to Graduate Advising within one week of the defense.

Manuscript Approval The last step to confer an MS degree is formatting and  submitting the department approved thesis to the Thesis Office .

• their manuscript
• signed approval and defense forms
• a Grammarly report showing that no major grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors are in the manuscript
• The student’s Graduate Advisor will indicate any required changes to the thesis’ formatting
• The student must complete all required changes before submitting it to the Thesis Office.
• Once the manuscript is uploaded to the Thesis Office’s submission system, all committee members and the department chair will provide their electronic approval of the thesis.
• Once any Thesis Office corrections are finished, the student must then work with the Thesis Office to submit their manuscript to ProQuest (or USPACE) for online viewing.
• The thesis must be approved by Thesis Editor no later than eight months from the date of the oral defense. This eight-month deadline includes thesis corrections, supervisory committee approval, department chair approval, and final approval by the Thesis Office. If this requirement is not met, any prior approvals of the thesis will be voided, the student will have to re-register for at least one thesis credit, and re-defend the thesis.
• After each of these steps is completed, the student will be cleared for graduation. Please note that a student is not considered “graduated” for merely passing the defense. The thesis must also successfully pass corrections and be published before a degree may be awarded.

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“Assessing Private Well Water Quality in Mobile and Baldwin Counties, Alabama”  

Thesis Defense by Sidney Millner 

In the News

College of Agriculture & Natural Resources │ College of Engineering Department of Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering

Thesis defense - julie celini.

April 10, 2024 8:00AM - 9:00AM

Zoom or Farrall Hall room 208

Thesis Defense

“assessing microbial community dynamics and soil quality under varied soil amendment practices”.

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM EST

Farrall Hall room 208

Zoom: https://msu.zoom.us/j/98605404186

Committee Members

Yan Liu, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering (Chair)

Wei Liao, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering

Kurt Thelen, Plant, Soil, & Microbial Sciences

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M.A. Thesis Defense: Austin Coke

Speaker austin coke.

Austin will defend his Master's thesis, "The Jewish South: A Comparison of Jewish Integration into Southern Society", with his thesis committee. The Major Professor is Dr. Scott Reynolds Nelson. The university community is invited. If you wish to attend please contact the graduate program office  in advance.

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Successful Thesis Defense from Dr. Kwok Sun Tang

We want to congratulate the successful thesis defense of the newly minted Dr. Kwok Sun Tang. He has successfully defended his thesis. He is pictured with Professor Paul Ricker, Professor Gautham Narayan, and his advisor Professor Matthew Turk.

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Thesis Defense: Andres Espinosa

April 19 @ 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm, event navigation.

• « Thesis Defense: Cora Saddler
• Dissertation Defense: Emily Raymond »

Andres Espinosa, a candidate for Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering will be defending his thesis titled, “A laboratory investigation and numerical modeling of one-dimensional carbonation of non-plastic soils mixed with hydrated lime: a potential tool for sustainable subgrade stabilization.”

Zoom meeting:

For the Zoom link and password, please contact Andres Espinosa at [email protected]

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Shimin Huang - PhD Thesis Defense

Description.

Shimin Huang has scheduled his PhD Thesis Defense for Monday, April 15, 2024 at 10:00 am in Phillips 228.  His PhD Thesis Advisor is Al Molnar.