The final dissertation defense exam represents the culminating opportunity for the dissertation committee to ask questions and provide comments on a student’s research. It also serves as a public forum to disseminate the student’s work to faculty, students, and colleagues. In many ways, it is a celebration of the student’s scholarly journey.

Unlike the Dissertation Proposal Defense, which is closed to the public, the final dissertation defense is open to the public and announced alongside other public seminars. Students must be enrolled in the semester during which they complete their final defense.

Scheduling and Notification

At a minimum, two weeks prior to Final Exam, students must email the Graduate College at gradrebel@unlv.edu with the following information about their Final Dissertation Exam and copy their Dissertation Chair and Diane Wrightman (diane.wrightman@unlv.edu). Example found here.

• First and Last Name
• Type of Degree (PhD in Hospitality Administration)
• Dissertation Title
• Name of Dissertation Chair and committee members
• Final Dissertation Exam Location
• Final Dissertation Exam Date and Time

The student must also provide a copy of their final dissertation to Diane Wrightman, which is then stored in their student file.

Graduate College Support

Students with questions about formatting, deadlines, or submission requirements can attend the Graduate College’s thesis and dissertation office hours, held virtually every Tuesday and Thursday from 12–2 p.m.. Appointments must be scheduled at least 48 hours in advance by emailing grad.td@unlv.edu.

Preparing for the Final Dissertation Exam

Students should work closely with their dissertation chair to develop a timeline for completion in accordance with the Graduate College’s graduation deadlines. The date of the defense should be determined in consultation with both the chair and the full dissertation committee.
After the defense, it is common for committee members to suggest minor revisions or improvements. Substantial changes are generally not expected at this stage, but students should account for the possibility of additional work when selecting their defense date.

Best Practices and Tips

• Attend other defenses to familiarize yourself with the process and gain insight into presentation styles and common questions.
• Communicate regularly with your chair and committee members to ensure expectations are clear.
• Prepare thoroughly by rehearsing your presentation, anticipating committee questions, and refining your slides and talking points.