Can anyone attend a thesis defense?

Graduate School
1

<p>When references are made to a public thesis defense, does that mean that anyone can attend? After pulling some strings, I have confirmed that 60 people are willing to attend someone’s thesis defense, mostly just warm bodies that will fill up the room and overflow into a hallway.</p>

2

<p>At a public defense - yes, anyone can attend.</p>

3

<p>Often there’s a public portion, open to the public, and a closed session held afterwards during which the real grilling by their committee takes place.</p>

<p>The defense can be a celebration of sorts for people finishing up their degree. Often times family, friends, and other people close to the candidate will attend to both show support, and to learn what they’ve been up to for the last 4+ years.</p>

<p>Not going to lie, it’s really depressing going to a defense with only ~5 people in the audience.</p>