The Doctoral Programme in Engineering consists of seven research fields including spatial planning and transportation engineering; real estate economics; geoinformatics; civil engineering, water and environmental engineering; mechanical engineering; and energy technology.
The research fields can be found here: https://www.aalto.fi/en/doctoral-education/research-fields-and-supervising-professors-school-of-engineering
Education objectives and intended learning outcomes of the programme
After completing the degree the doctoral student is able to carry out independent and original academic research.
Doctoral education at Aalto University is conducted within a multidisciplinary international academic community that provides opportunities for field-specific and multidisciplinary research, as well as for various forms of education and learning. High quality education, transferable skills training, and network-building ensure the development of doctoral students as independent researchers and experts of their research fields.
The education prepares doctoral students for academic careers at top-level institutions. It provides competencies to pursue various career paths also outside of academia, for example working at demanding expert positions or as entrepreneurs.
The doctoral degree is a requirement to serve as a thesis advisor for doctoral students and as examiner for a doctoral degree.
Intended learning outcomes for General research studies
Depending on the studies chosen for this module, the doctoral student will be able to:
- to comprehend and conscientiously address the fundamental ethical and sustainability considerations associated with their research.
- choose and apply appropriate research methods to the research question at hand
- adhere to the principles of responsible conduct of research (RCR) in both their research work and interactions within the research community
- work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary and international environment, engaging with diverse stakeholders.
- proficiently present their research in both scientific and professional settings.
- identify, utilize and communicate their transferable skills, such as communication, interpersonal, project management, leadership and pedagogical skills, to work successfully in academic and other professional positions.
- to communicate professionally in national language(s)
Intended learning outcomes for Research field studies
After completing this module, the doctoral student will be able to:
- demonstrate advanced discipline-specific knowledge
- identify essential research methods for their own research and apply them proficiently.
- disseminate research findings through relevant research forums and to the wider public.
General research studies prepare students for research work, the application of research results and to learn the principles of responsible conduct of research. General research studies can include transferable skill studies.
Research field studies and doctoral thesis help students to gain comprehensive and in-depth knowledge of their research field and prepares them for the dissemination of research findings.
If the student does not want to finish the doctoral degree, the licentiate degree can be completed as an intermediate degree. The licentiate degree consists of an approved licentiate thesis and the same 30 ECTS of studies as for the doctoral degree.
Planning the studies
Based on the Degree Regulations on Doctoral Education, doctoral students must prepare a doctoral personal study plan (DPSP), which includes plans for the contents, scope and duration of their studies, research, supervision, funding and career. Students who wish to deviate from the confirmed curriculum of their programme must obtain approval for their doctoral personal study plan.
In addition to the courses taught at the School in Engineering, the degree can include other courses taught in Aalto University or other universities, as agreed in the doctoral personal study plan of the student (DPSP).