The University of Twente is discontinuing the cum laude designation for PhD candidates. This decision is part of a broader reform of the PhD regulations, aimed at creating a fairer and more transparent PhD programme. We want every PhD candidate to feel that they are being assessed fairly and transparently. Discontinuing cum laude is an essential step in this direction.
Why this change?
It has become apparent that a significant amount of subjectivity is involved in determining who is eligible for cum laude. Despite various attempts, it has not been possible to develop a framework that can be applied uniformly and with the same standards everywhere.
Additionally, research indicates that there is an inequality of opportunity. For example, women receive cum laude less often than men. Approximately 5% of PhD candidates receive the distinction, but men are twice as likely to do so. Read more in recent studies: Bol (2023) and Van den Besselaar (2024).
The differences go beyond gender alone. We also see variation between disciplines, research groups and committees. It is therefore not a given that the best PhD candidates will actually receive cum laude.
Broad support for discontinuation
The decision was not taken overnight. Since 2021, extensive discussions have been held with various stakeholders. Their experiences and concerns have been carefully taken into account. The University Council expressed its support for the decision at its meeting last Wednesday.
Although there is also criticism within the academic community, the majority is positive: the discontinuation of cum laude is seen as an important step towards greater equality and transparency. The Dutch PhD Network has also responded positively.
Pioneer in the Netherlands
With this step, our university is the first in the Netherlands to discontinue cum laude for doctoral candidates. Some other universities have already done so for master's programmes. Internationally, the use of cum laude varies greatly: in some countries, the designation does not exist at all for doctoral degrees.
Appreciation for excellence remains
The disappearance of cum laude does not mean that excellence counts for less. On the contrary, exceptional achievements will continue to be appreciated, but more equitably and fairly. Think of personal recommendations, awards, or the visible impact of research in science and society.
No adverse consequences expected
We do not expect the discontinuation of cum laude to harm the position of PhD candidates or the university. Major funding bodies such as NWO and ERC already use new forms of assessment in which cum laude plays a limited and increasingly minor role. They are increasingly evaluating substantive achievements and social impact through so-called evidence-based CVs.
Transitional arrangement
PhD candidates who have already submitted their thesis to the manuscript committee are still subject to the old rules. Those who do so after 1 January will be subject to the new rules, under which cum laude will no longer be awarded.
A step forward
By abolishing cum laude, we are taking an essential step towards a fairer, more transparent and more inclusive PhD programme. Excellence will continue to be valued, but from now on in a way that offers everyone the same opportunities.
