Doctoral Programme in Medicine, 240 cr

After completing the doctoral programme, students

- can conduct scientific research independently, critically evaluate their findings and report them orally and in writing

-are aware of the ethical issues in research and good research practice and follow it in their work, know regulation and requirements concerning privacy and data protection

- have profound understanding of research approaches in their fields of study and are familiar with the recent developments and current research directions in this field

-are able to apply the research methods of their discipline, as well as evaluate and develop their research skills and competence,

- understand the fundamental principles of science and key features common to all scientific research, can construct and evaluate scientific arguments and participate in academic debates in their fields

- understand the demands of professional research and know how to act as an active member in the international scientific community 

The aim of the doctoral studies is to prepare doctoral students to successfully work as an academic researcher or teacher, as well as in other expert positions in the society and in the field of health.

A doctoral student must acquire in-depth knowledge in his/her own field, but also develop a broader view of health sciences in general. Doctoral students should adopt scientific thinking skills and principles of scientific conduct, as well as gain versatile research skills.

The fields of study available are biostatistics, epidemiology, gerontology, public health, social psychiatry, social and health policy, health economics and occupational health. A doctoral degree can be awarded in all the disciplines. Most PhD students do their dissertation work in one of our research groups. The field of study is determined by the supervisor’s discipline. The employment prospects for graduates in the field of health sciences or medicine have been good.

In the Doctoral Programme in Medicine, the student can complete the degree of Doctor of Medical Science or Doctor of Philosophy in the disciplines of the School. Eligible are applicants, who hold the Finnish degree of Licentiate in Medicine or a corresponding degree from a corresponding higher education institution abroad.