New opportunities for doctoral researchers: Universities agree on national co-operation in postgraduate education

With the contractual flexible study right (Tohtori+), doctoral researchers can apply for temporary study rights for courses organised by other universities and include these studies in their degree. The flexible study right offers the opportunity to take specialised courses that are relevant for dissertation research but may not be available at the doctoral researcher's home university. At the same time, the agreement supports the individual study paths of doctoral researchers and strengthens their expertise.

The studies are free of charge for postgraduate students, and there are no fees for student mobility between universities.

Significant steps have already been taken on a national level in Finland to improve the quality and accessibility of doctoral training. Good examples include the national website for doctoral training courses, initiated by the University of Eastern Finland, which lists courses offered at different universities, and the doctoral pilot programmes that develop new models for supporting doctoral training. This new agreement will build another new form of co-operation in doctoral training.

"Doctoral researchers will now have a better opportunity to tailor their studies and strengthen their specialised expertise. This is an important step in the development of Finnish doctoral training in a co-operation between several universities," says Director of the University of Turku Graduate School, Vice Rector Piia Seppänen.

The agreement enters into force in September 2025. In the future, other Finnish universities may also join the agreement. The University of Turku is responsible for coordinating the co-operation.

The courses offered by the University of Turku can be found in the Study Guide.

Doctoral researchers from other universities participating in the agreement can apply for the study right for courses at the University of Turku with an electronic form.