Preliminary examination

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.

Are you about to submit a doctoral dissertation for preliminary examination? This theme comprises instructions for submitting a doctoral dissertation for examination and what should be taken into account when you are planning the examination timetable for your dissertation. Start by reading the general instructions for all doctoral students and then move on to the more detailed instructions of your home faculty. You will recognise your faculty's instructions by the header.

Instructions related to permission for a public defence and the publication of doctoral dissertations, the public examination and the grading of the dissertation as well as graduation can be found under separate themes.

Instructions

Start here: planning the timetable

The examination process of doctoral dissertations comprises two stages: the preliminary examination and the the public examination. In order to graduate as a doctor, students have to complete the compulsory studies included in the degree as well as an approved dissertation.

Language revision of dissertations

It is important to ensure that dissertations are not unfairly overlooked in the scientific community due to shortcomings in linguistic expression. The doctoral candidate has the responsibility to see to it that the language of the dissertation fulfils academic publishing standards.

Structure and criteria of doctoral theses

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.