Plan your doctoral studies

A doctoral degree comprises of a doctoral thesis and compulsory studies. Visit this page for information on the degree structure of your doctoral programme.

The doctoral dissertation and related research are the most significant and extensive part of a doctoral degree. The University of Helsinki does not measure dissertations in credits, but their scope has been calculated to correspond to approximately 200 credits.

In May 2021, WebOodi will be replaced by a new student information system Sisu. In Sisu you will plan your studies, register for courses, and when the time comes, submit your request for graduation. You can always find the link to Sisu on the navigation pane at the top of this page.

Prospective doctoral students must draw up their first study plan when applying for admission. However, their plan may later change and become more specific. When beginning your studies, discuss your study plan with your supervisor and, if necessary, supplement it.

There are many ways to complete studies related to the doctoral degree and only a small share of the studies involve traditional course-based teaching.

The University of Helsinki uses the electronic Thessa tool for the planning, supervision and monitoring of doctoral thesis projects. With Thessa, you can plan your research project, track your progress and draw up a supervision plan with your supervisors.

Students can apply for the recognition of prior studies or other learning for their doctoral degree. The level and content of such studies or learning must correspond to the learning outcomes set in the curriculum of your doctoral programme.

Sometimes the topic of a doctoral dissertation or Licentiate thesis requires complementary studies at another university.

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.