Doktoriõpe

Doktoriõpe is the Estonian system of doctoral education, the formal pathway through which a person pursues original research work to earn a doctoral degree. It is the standard mode of obtaining a doctorate in Estonia and is offered by universities and research institutions across disciplines such as the sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities.

Structure and admission: Entry generally requires a master's degree and a clearly defined research project with a proposed supervision arrangement. A doctoral study plan is prepared, outlining milestones, coursework, research activities, and publication targets. The programme combines supervised research with limited structured coursework, seminars, and activities such as publishing articles and presenting results. Progress is regularly reviewed, and the final milestone is the submission and defense of a doctoral dissertation (doktoritöö).

Duration and funding: Full-time doktoriõpe typically lasts about four years, though part-time options may exist in some cases, extending the duration. Doctoral candidates (doktorandid) are often employed as researchers or supported by grants or project funding, including university positions.

Degree and recognition: Upon successful defense, the Doctoral degree (doktorikraad) is awarded, commonly referred to as a PhD in international contexts. The qualification is recognized within Estonia and abroad, in line with European and global higher education standards.

Quality assurance: Doctoral programmes are governed by national regulations and university-level policies, with external quality assurance processes to ensure educational standards, research integrity, progress monitoring, and ethical practices.