University of Gibraltar Research Highlights Doctoral Viva Practices at Global QPR Conference

The conference is the world’s largest and longest-running event dedicated to graduate research education. It brings together academic researchers, policymakers, doctoral candidates, supervisors, and university leaders to explore the policies and practices shaping postgraduate study worldwide.

The presentation, “Empowerment and Care in Doctoral Oral Examinations,” was delivered by Professor Gina Wisker, alongside Ludovic Highman, Rachel Spronken-Smith and Margaret Kiley. It addressed one of the most significant and evolving components of doctoral assessment: the viva voce, or oral examination. The University of Gibraltar’s contribution to the project is led by Dr Darren Fa, Director of Academic Programmes and Research, and Caroline Moss-Gibbons, Parasol Librarian.

Focusing on the evolving role of the doctoral viva, the research examined how institutions can foster a culture of empowerment and care while maintaining academic rigour—particularly as oral examinations become more widespread globally and attention to candidate wellbeing increases.

The study drew on research across universities in Gibraltar, the United Kingdom and New Zealand. Using semi-structured interviews, the team gathered insights from 23 doctoral candidates, 21 examiners and 12 conveners, exploring experiences of viva preparation, conduct, questioning, and assessment standards, as well as different formats including online, hybrid and in-person.

Through thematic and cross-group analysis, the researchers identified key practices that support a more positive and empowering viva experience for all stakeholders. The findings contribute to growing international work on doctoral education, offering practical guidance on balancing rigorous assessment with candidate wellbeing.

This cross-border project highlights the University of Gibraltar’s role in international research collaboration and its contribution to advancing best practice in doctoral education. By sharing its findings at QPR, the University demonstrates the impact of its research in shaping developments in postgraduate study and contributing to global conversations on higher education.