Doctoral education 

Doctoral education 

A doctoral degree is the highest academic qualification in the field of arts. Doctoral studies and research are conducted at universities, and doctoral education aims to develop one’s expertise as an artist, researcher, educator and specialist. The degree prepares graduates for a career in research as well as for other demanding expert roles in various sectors of society.

The recommended duration for completing a doctoral degree is four years, amounting to 240 ECTS credits. In general, 180 credits are allocated to the doctoral research project and 60 credits to supporting studies. Doctoral candidates independently carry out a research project that culminates in either a dissertation or an artistic body of work accompanied by a commentary. 

The structure of doctoral thesis projects varies depending on the university, discipline and individual research goals. The final thesis often consists of several artistic components and a written part, but in some cases, it may be entirely text-based.  

The artistic components may include visual art productions, curated exhibitions, performances, pedagogical events, workshops, exercises, concerts, compositions or recordings. A written commentary is included to reflect on the observations that arose from the artistic components in relation to both practical and theoretical discussions in the field. It should clearly articulate what is being studied, how the research is conducted, what research tradition it builds upon, and what new knowledge it produces.  The doctoral thesis must demonstrate a deep understanding of the research field, the ability to analyse and articulate ideas, and the capacity to investigate research questions and generate new knowledge through artistic practice.  

What are the degree titles, and where are doctoral studies in the arts offered? 

A Doctor of Fine Arts degree can be completed at the Academy of Fine Arts of Uniarts Helsinki, a Doctor of Music degree at the Sibelius Academy of Uniarts Helsinki, and a Doctor of Arts (Dance) degree at the Theatre Academy of Uniarts Helsinki. A Doctor of Arts (Theatre and Drama) degree can be obtained from the Theatre Academy and Tampere University. A Doctor of Arts (Art and Design) degree can be completed at Uniarts Helsinki, the University of Lapland and Aalto University. The title of the degree is determined by the research field that is the best match for the content of the research project.    

Uniarts Helsinki (University of the Arts Helsinki) offers doctoral programmes in fine arts, music and performing arts, each including various specialisation options and study paths. Aalto University’s doctoral programme in arts, design and architecture includes doctoral studies in fields such as architecture, film, media, design and art. Tampere University awards doctoral degrees in theatre through its doctoral programme in media, communication and performing arts. The University of Lapland offers a thematic and multidisciplinary doctoral programme titled The Arctic in a Changing World. 

In addition, students in research-oriented Finnish universities may pursue doctoral studies related to the arts, cultural research or arts education in other academic disciplines.  

Applying for doctoral education and funding studies 

The application process for doctoral studies varies between universities and disciplines. As a rule, applicants must hold a relevant master’s degree from a university or a university of applied sciences, or a comparable degree from abroad. In the arts, the applicant’s artistic merit and achievements may also be considered.    

Doctoral studies are often funded through grants and/or scholarships. The amount and duration of funding vary, and it is common for doctoral candidates to apply for several rounds of funding throughout their studies. Universities may also offer salaried doctoral candidate positions or funding through research projects. 

Sources and links to doctoral programmes: 

Aalto University. Aalto Doctoral Programme in Arts, Design and Architecture. https://www.aalto.fi/en/study-options/aalto-doctoral-programme-in-arts-design-and-architecture (accessed 11 March 2025). 

University of Lapland. The Arctic in a changing world. The Arctic in a Changing World – Lapin yliopisto –  University of Lapland – Lapplands universitet (accessed 11 March 2025). 

Tampere University. Doctoral Programme in Media, Communication and Performing Arts. Doctoral Programme in Media, Communication and Performing Arts | Tampere Universities Community (accessed 11 March 2025). 

University of the Arts Helsinki. Doc­toral Pro­gramme of Artis­tic Re­search in Per­form­ing Arts. https://www.uniarts.fi/en/study-programmes/doctoral-programme-of-artistic-research-in-performing-arts/ (accessed 11.3.2025). 

University of the Arts Helsinki. Doc­toral Pro­gramme in Fine Arts. https://www.uniarts.fi/en/study-programmes/doctoral-programme-in-fine-arts/ (accessed 11 March 2025). 

University of the Arts Helsinki. Doctoral Programme in Music. https://www.uniarts.fi/en/study-programmes/doctoral-programme-in-music/ (accessed 11 March 2025).