Review of the dissertation

The submitted dissertation is assessed by at least two reviewers, one of whom must be a professor in your own faculty. The dissertation supervisor may also be appointed as a reviewer. The doctoral candidate may propose other suitable reviewers, who may also be appointed by the doctoral committee.

Persons who may be appointed as reviewers generally include:

•    Professors (including retired professors)
•    Junior professors
•    Hochschuldozenten or Privatdozenten
•    Members of staff who have habilitated

In a cooperative doctoral process, staff members from a university of applied sciences (Fachhochschule) may also serve as reviewers.

Evaluation of the dissertation

Reviewers evaluate the dissertation individually and independently of one another within a defined period of time and propose a mark. The dissertation and the reviews are made available to all faculty members in the dean's office for a certain period. Opinions on the dissertation can be sent to the examination panel. Once this period is over, the candidate is notified as to whether the dissertation was accepted or rejected.

The dissertation can usually be returned to the candidate once for revision of any deficiencies. If the dissertation is finally rejected, the doctoral process is concluded with the verdict "Not passed". A rejected dissertation may not be re-submitted for a doctoral degree.