Goal of the doctoral thesis
The doctoral thesis is a proof of the ability of the PhD candidate to perform independent scientific research. In the first instance the doctoral thesis of the candidate is to be approved by the candidate's supervisor (the "promotor"); s/he will decide if the requirements for the doctoral degree are met. The final assessment and approval lies with the doctoral thesis (manuscript) committee. When the doctorate is awarded, the PhD student will gain the Dutch title 'Doctor', which is equivalent to Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Maximum size of the doctoral thesis
The scientific research performed in order to gain a doctoral degree should be generally completed within 4 years (full time appointment). The content of the doctoral thesis should correspond to this research period. In some cases, the number of publications in the doctoral thesis reflects research data produced in a longer period of time, the goal being the awarding of distinction ("cum laude"). This is not an advisable route to achieve this goal.
Minimum size of the doctoral thesis
The guideline for the minimum size of the doctoral thesis within RUNMC is as follows: three publishable-quality chapters based on the candidate's own empirical research data, whereby at least two are "accepted" in peer reviewed journals, preferably in the upper two quartiles of the scientific subject category. The candidate should be first author of all three chapters.
Graduation
The requirements for academic graduation, and the responsibilities and rights of the PhD student and supervisor can be found at the Radboud University website.