In their thesis defense, doctoral candidates have to present their research to the board of examiners and then answer critical questions. This course is designed to prepare doctoral candidates optimally for this situation.

In the first part of the course, the participants get practical tips for their introductory presentation: how to structure the presentation, how to build up the central argument, what language to use, etc. The second part of the course deals with typical problems that occur during the discussion: How to respond to criticism and "killer questions", how to deal with stage fright and blackouts, etc.

In the third part, participants get the chance to give (part of) their presentation and to receive feedback from the group and from the trainer.

Contents:

• Tips and exercises for a convincing presentation
• Types of questions (counter-arguments, critical questions etc.) and how to deal with them
• Setting and roles during the defence
• How to deal with stage fright and blackouts
• Presentations by participants and feedback from the group and the trainer

Objectives: The participants...

• give a convincing and well-structured presentation
• deal in a confident manner with counter-arguments and critical questions
• are well prepared and feel confident about their thesis defence

Methods: All contents will be developed interactively, and they will be applied directly to the participants' topics. All participants are given the opportunity to simulate parts of their defense presentation.

Registration Deadline: 02.04.2026
Instructor: Dr. Friederike Schmitz
Date & Time:
16.04.2026 | 09:00 - 17:00
17.04.2026 | 09:00 - 17:00
► Register here: https://veranstaltungen.uni-weimar.de/e/THESIS-DEFENSE-2026
Venue: Online. The link will be made available to you per email shortly before the workshop
Course language: English