> As a result, the criteria for graduation is often softer than in the US. Also bear in mind in Europe you need a masters before entering a PhD program (or sig

> As a result, the criteria for graduation is often softer than in the US. Also bear in mind in Europe you need a masters before entering a PhD program (or significant research experience), and you spend 100% of your time on your research, there's not courses or teaching. I think that better explains why they're finished in 3-4 years.