The following major subjects are included in the Doctoral Programme in Biosciences:
Special criteria for admission to the Doctoral Programme in Biosciences
The research plan should be written according to the instructions in the individual study plan (ISP). You will find the ISP and further information at Apply for Doctoral Studies.
Study plan for the Doctoral Programme in Biosciences
The Doctoral degree (240 credits) includes:
- Research studies (40 credits)
- Doctoral dissertation (thesis) (200 credits)
If you choose to complete your Licentiate degree (120 credits), this includes:
- Research studies (40 credits)
- Licentiate thesis (80 credits)
A Doctoral degree taken after a Licentiate degree only includes a Doctoral dissertation (thesis) (120 credits).
In the individual study plan (ISP), you must state the year in which you plan to complete your degree. The average length of time needed is 60 credits per academic year in full-time studies, amounting to 4 years in total. If you deviate from this schedule, you must provide an explanation for doing so.
Doctoral studies within the Doctoral Programme in Biosciences
The doctoral studies within the Doctoral Programme in Biosciences (40 credits) must support your thesis work. You are to plan your studies together with the supervisor. You may complete your studies at Åbo Akademi University or another university.
Studies include:
- at least 25 credits in the major subject
- max. 5 credits for participation in conferences (5 credits requires participation with your own contribution in at least 2 international conferences).
- max. 5 credits for language studies
- Licentiate seminar (5 credits) for doctoral students with a major subject of Cell Biology or Environmental and Marine Biology, admitted 1.3.2019 or later
- Licentiate examination (5-8 credits) according to the old structure, for doctoral students with a major subject of Cell Biology or Environmental and Marine Biology, admitted before 1.3.2019
The faculty recommends that working life skills are included as part of the doctoral studies (equivalent to 10-20 credits). Working life skills consist of, for example, teaching and supervision work, pedagogical competences, communication, scientific writing, computer skills and language proficiency, and studies in university pedagogy.