The legal situation of PhD students in the light of the reform of higher education and science

Abstract

The object of the study. The purpose of the research was to analyze the legal status of PhD students in the light of the reform of higher education, in the areas of: the organization of education, recruitment, rights and obligations and proceedings in the matter of conferring the title of Doctor of the Juridical Science.

Test method. In the course of the research, the dogmatic and legal method as well as empirical method elements in the scope of analysis of case law were used. The normative matter was taken into account, in particular the provisions of the Act - Law on higher education and science and regulations introducing it, as well as the hitherto existing Act - Law on higher education.

Results. The research has shown that the legal situation of PhD students depends on the academic year in which they started their doctoral studies, as well as on the day on which they initiated proceedings in the matter of conferring the title of doctor of legal sciences. Proceedings to award doctoral degrees may take place not only according to "old" or "new rules", but also in mixed modes, in which the rules are modified only in certain areas.

Conclusions. PhD students should pay attention to the varied legal status. Due to the changed rules and numerous exceptions to the changes introduced, it is important to make sure on which day the proceedings were initiated and whether all formalities in this respect have been complied with. In addition, in the event of delays in the process of creating a doctoral thesis, it is worth paying attention to the deadlines, after which the proceedings will be discontinued or terminated.