Doctoral studies

The Aalto School of Art, Design and Architecture has a common doctoral programme that provides the backbone for doctoral studies. The subject area’s education and research is carried out in the department. In design, department-wide education takes the form of an ongoing research seminar series, design-specific study modules, winter school and thematic summer schools. The closest subject area education is provided in the research groups who run their own meetings and seminars. Students’ closest guidance comes from their thesis advisor(s) and study supervisor. All full-time doctoral students work as a member of one of the research groups of the department of design. A doctoral degree at Aalto should be completed in a span of four years, comprised of education and independent research work.