Virtual Dissertation Groups

Fill out the form at bottom to sign up for Spring 2024 Virtual Dissertation Groups! Sign ups are fully open through Sunday, February 11th (and there will likely be a few days leeway as well).

What it is: VDG is a free service for those working on their doctoral dissertations in philosophy. Since 2014, VDG has connected hundreds of philosophy doctoral students from over 39 countries and every continent* to provide peer feedback on dissertation work with a minimal time commitment.

How it works: Each dissertator is placed in a group of three on the basis of a short survey about their project/area of work. About once a month, one member sends some work to the others—3,000 – 6,000 words—who then return feedback and comments a week or so after. (Typically in the form of written comments, but some groups decide to meet over video.)

Why it’s good: While advisors and committees are important, it can be incredibly helpful to discuss one’s work with peers in a lower-stakes environment, and it can be particularly enlightening to do so with those who take a different approach, outlook, or focus. Not only that, but there is evidence from psychological research that even just thinking about problems in relation to persons who are geographically distant can promote creative insights. With students in programs from many states, countries, and every continent,* Virtual Dissertation Groups is a great way to capture some of these benefits!

Sound good? Then sign up for the Fall 2023 groups below!

[* At least, every continent with a philosophy Ph.D. program… sorry Antarctica]