University of Helsinki
As you may know, there is an educational reform called “Big Wheel” at work at the university. The association has its own representative in the Big Wheel project group to make sure the PhD candidates voices are heard in the decision making process and now we have got good news for you!
The rector has now made several decisions concerning the new bachelor and master programs and, most interesting to us, the doctoral programs. Essentially the only new thing concerning doctoral programs is that from 1.8.2017 onwards there will be only 30+10 obligatory credits for doctoral students.
The first 30 credits will consist of studies related to the doctoral students specific field and their purpose is to support the work and research related to the thesis. They will include research ethics and may include also philosophy of science.
The remaining 10 credits will consist of general working skills that strengthen both the doctoral candidates identity as researcher and his/her general employability. They may be carried out as studies or be integrated in the research work and can include for example studies in university pedagogy, leadership, project management skills and scientific communication.
Update on how the new rules apply to old phd students:
Until 31.7.(i.e. between 1.8.2017-31.7.2020) you can choose to pass all the courses as before (no changes in the number on obligatory credits/courses), or you can choose to switch into the new system (and follow the new rules of 30+10 ects) and pass your courses in whatever way your faculty requires. In other words the details are up to faculties, why you need to check the details of the new regulations with your own faculty. Faculties should be able to answer to questions about this issue by spring 2017 at latest and possibly sooner.
For those who want to know what the Big Wheel Reform is about in more detail can find more information on Flamma, where there is a page that is updated with the latest news. But, whenever there are news that specifically concern doctoral education we’ll keep you updated here!