Doctoral Programme in Biosciences and Drug Research

From 1 August 2025 all doctoral programmes at the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Åbo Akademi University have a basic structure comprising a total of 30 credits. The old structure consisting of 40 credits will end on 31 July 2025.

The following major subjects are included in the Doctoral Programme in Biosciences and Drug Research:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Environmental and Marine Biology
• Drug Development
• Pharmacy

Special criteria for admission to the Doctoral Programme in Biosciences and Drug Research

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 a doctoral study right.

Study plan for the Doctoral Programme in Biosciences and Drug Research

The Doctoral degree (30 credits) includes:

• Research studies (30 credits)
• Doctoral dissertation (thesis)

If you choose to complete your Licentiate degree, this includes:

• Research studies (30 credits)
• Licentiate thesis

A Doctoral degree taken after a Licentiate degree only includes a Doctoral dissertation (thesis).

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 and Drug Research

The doctoral studies within the Doctoral Programme in Biosciences and Drug Research (30 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 20 cr in the major subject or related fields (such as complementary areas, interdisciplinary connections, etc.) for a 3–4-year doctoral project.
• A maximum of 5 cr for participation in conferences (5 cr requires active participation with one’s own contribution in at least two international conferences).
• General skills/minor subject area (maximum of 10 cr).
• A maximum of 5 credits from language studies may be included.