The main difference is that it assumes already some broad
knowledge about the discipline, e.g. Greek, Hebrew, exegesis of the NT
or OT, or linguistics for the PhD in Ancient Languages (which is done in
the Faculty of Arts) and does not involve any structured teaching
modules.
A student "only" writes a dissertation. However, to be allowed to
register for the doctoral programs a research proposal has to be
accepted by faculty. This proposal a prospective student must prepare
under the guidance of his/her study-leader. Depending on the academic
background, this proposal can take from 3 to 12 months to prepare. The
2000-3000 word proposal must adhere to a prescribed format (guidelines
are provided). The study-leader must defend the proposal before a small
sub-committee of experts in the faculty. This committee recommends the
proposal to a full meeting of faculty in terms of three explicit
recommendations: 1. The project is worthwhile (in other words, it
addresses a problem that can contribute to the pool of knowledge in the
discipline) and realistic (it can be done). 2. The theoretical frame of
reference and proposed method is suitable for addressing to problem
identified. 3. The candidate has the knowledge and skill to do the
project. 4. The project needs or does not need clearance by the ethical
committee.
The thesis (preferably of about 80 000 word. i.e. 220-250 pages) may
be submitted after two years of registration and is examined by one
internal and two external examiners. Students pay their fee for the
program during in the two years after registration. Thereafter they have
to pay a registration fee on a yearly basis. Two years of further
registration are automatic. Thereafter the study-leader must submit a
recommendation that the project can go ahead. (A project that goes
beyond 5 years would indeed need some special recommendation!)
The research proposal is a pivotal mechanism in the process.
Indirectly it establishes whether a candidate has the necessary broad
knowledge of his/her field of study, whether he/she can do independent
research (i.e. in the preliminary research), can conceptualize problems
in his/her discipline and can present his/research in a logic and
coherent manner. If a students does not have the necessary background in
some aspects of his/her field of study, the proposal forces him/her to
acquire it before going ahead with his/her research.
