Russia

Abstract

Doctoral examinations in Russia are almost all governed by the state-controlled Higher Attestation Committee which defines the requirements and rules and procedures and is also ultimately responsible for the award of degrees, except in a few universities and research institutions which have their own degree awarding powers. In Russia, the doctoral examination comprises a pre-examination and final examination (oral defence). For the pre-examination, a Dissertation Council reviews and discusses doctoral submissions which are made available online at least two months prior to the defence. When the Dissertation Council is sure that the dissertation will be successfully defended, a defence committee is appointed for the final oral examination. This chapter focuses upon the system of doctoral examination in Russia. In particular, it looks at the national framework, the assessment of the educational coursework, the pre-examination of the doctoral thesis, the appointment of a Dissertation Council, the final examination, and ongoing challenges and current trends. This chapter then makes the case that, although the Russian system of doctoral examinations is experiencing a shift towards a more flexible and diversified model, more effort should be made to enhance the quality of examination procedures.