Plan your doctoral studies
By selecting a degree programme you are able to see the general content as well as the possible degree programme-specific content. You do not have to select a degree programme to see the Open University's instructions.
Search for degree programme
When you search for a degree programme by name or by part of the name the options in the list of degree programmes below the search field is narrowed down. After this you have to choose the degree programme from the list.
Open University programmes
Bachelor's Programmes
Master's and Licentiate's Programmes
Doctoral Programmes
Specialist training programmes
Instructions
Scope and structure of doctoral degrees
A doctoral degree comprises of a doctoral thesis and compulsory studies. This page provides you information on the degree structure and curriculum of your doctoral programme.
Transferable skills in doctoral degrees August 1, 2023 onwards
Every doctoral degree includes 10 ECTS of transferable skills studies, which are organised by the Doctoral School of the University of Helsinki (UHDS).
Teaching and course registration for doctoral researchers
On this page you will find instructions for finding courses suitable for doctoral students and how to sign up for them in Sisu.
Recognition of prior learning to a doctoral degree
Students can apply for the recognition of prior studies or other learning for their doctoral degree. Read more about the recognition on this page.
Doctoral studies at other Finnish universities (JOO)
Students at Finnish universities may apply for a fixed-term right to pursue studies at another Finnish university. Read more about JOO-studies here.
Licentiate degree
The University of Helsinki offers doctoral degrees as the primary postgraduate research degree, but postgraduate students can also choose to complete a research-oriented licentiate degree. This page provides information on completing a licentiate degree.
Structure and criteria of doctoral theses
A doctoral dissertation is a consistent scholarly work based on independent research that makes an original contribution to scientific knowledge. On this page you will find information on the structure and criteria of doctoral theses.
Thessa in a nutshell
The University of Helsinki uses the electronic Thessa tool for the planning, supervision and monitoring of doctoral thesis projects. On this page you will find information on Thessa in a nutshell.