PhD comprehensive exam

experience and advice

Abstract

The comprehensive exam is a key assessment in most doctoral (Ph.D.) programs in education. For some students, it turns out to be an anxiety-provoking ordeal included in the rite of passage for the doctorate, a university degree certifying the ability to contribute, through high-level scientific research, to a given field. In this article, we have tried 1) to deepen knowledge about the comprehensive exam, 2) to describe the experience of doctoral students, 3) to identify practical advice. The comments of twelve doctoral students from the Faculty of Education of the University of Sherbrooke reveal that the experience is proving to be positive. In addition, we note the importance of the entourage, breaks, bereavement, and flexibility to promote the success of the exam.