As AI systems can now generate thesis-like content, PhD programs can no longer rely primarily on dissertations for evaluation. Harvard and other institutions are recommending rigorous in-person assessments by multiple faculty members as the central component of PhD evaluation instead.
A thesis is no longer sufficient for a PhD because AI can generate convincing thesis-like texts. Harvard and other institutions are now recommending regular in-person evaluations by multiple faculty members as the primary assessment method instead of relying primarily on dissertations.