Written by: Dr Vilma W. Deponio
The topic defense in graduate school represents a critical milestone in the academic journey of every student. It is designed to evaluate the readiness and scholarly merit of a proposed research study, ensuring that the work is both feasible and aligned with institutional priorities and global development goals. At this stage, students present their capsule research proposals, which serve as the foundation for publishable papers and their eventual dissertation. The defense is conducted before a panel composed of internal faculty members, external evaluators, and the student’s adviser, whose collective role is to provide constructive critique, guidance, and assurance of academic rigor.
During the defense, students are expected to present the essential components of their proposal, particularly the initial chapters of the manuscript. These include the title of the study, the background of the study, the objectives and significance of the study, the methods to be employed, and the population and locale of the research. The proposal must also demonstrate alignment with the institution’s research agenda and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting the broader relevance and contribution of the study to society.
The panel’s role is to offer suggestions and comments that refine the research problem, strengthen methodological approaches, clarify scope and limitations, and enhance the academic and practical significance of the study. Through this process, students gain valuable insights that help them polish their proposals, ensuring that their research is not only academically sound but also socially responsive and globally relevant. By the conclusion of the topic defense, students are expected to emerge with a clearer direction, a stronger proposal, and greater confidence in advancing to the next stages of their scholarly work.
