The term PH.D. HURDLES refers to the three main steps that a doctoral student must complete in order to earn their degree. These steps include writing a thesis, taking oral exams, and passing a comprehensive exam. Theses are written documents that summarize the research conducted by the student and must be approved by a committee of faculty members. Oral exams are a series of questions posed by the faculty committee to assess the student's knowledge of their field. Finally, the AEJPR exam is a comprehensive test that covers all aspects of the student's research and must be passed in order to receive the degree.