For supervising professors and thesis advisors in doctoral education
Quick links
Resources for doctoral supervision development
- Training and self-study materials
- Elements of successful doctoral supervision
- Diversity, equality and inclusion
- Supporting wellbeing of doctoral students
- Info sessions on doctoral supervision
- Doctoral supervision meetings
- Best practices from schools
- Open Science
- Facilitating doctoral students’ research networking
Sufficient and high-quality supervision based on a relationship between the supervising professor and the doctoral student is a key quality factor for doctoral education and research. We have approximately 3500 doctoral students at Aalto University for whom supervision and guidance is key for successful progress. In a large, multicultural university such as Aalto the challenge of mutual understanding and constructive communication is significant. Key for a successful relationship between a supervising professor / thesis advisor and a doctoral student is mutual respect and a strong adherence to professional integrity. To address this, we have established a code of conduct and a supervision plan designed to enhance our ability to ensure that both doctoral students and supervising professors and thesis advisers are aware of the progress and state of studies and research. Supervision plan is a mandatory part of the DPSP. Effective supervision is based on interactive communication and keeping the doctoral student informed in a constructive manner.
Doctoral students are expected to complete their studies and related research within the timeframe specified in their personal study plan (DPSP). Defining a shared set of university-level principles for the supervision of doctoral students furthers the equal treatment of all students. DPSP in the current format has been required of doctoral students since 1 August 2021.
Supervision is a distinct expertise, and we are committed to supporting you in this endeavour. Consequently, we offer you a pedagogy course, complemented by a which includes guidance on deepening knowledge on supervision practices etc.
The doctoral programme committees monitor and develop the school-level practices of supervising doctoral students in line with university policies. Supervision principles are defined in a manner that allows flexibility in supervision and takes into consideration individual needs in each guidance case. You will find more information on the university policies and guidelines on these webpages that are dedicated for doctoral supervision.
Make sure to use your Aalto login to access all information.
Aalto Doctoral Orientation Days
Aalto doctoral orientation days are organised four times in a year. All the new doctoral students are invited. Participation is mandatory since students will receive important information about the doctoral studies and journey. The Doctoral Education Services (DES) will explain what is needed to be done at the beginning of the studies and also provide important information on support and resources for doing research, for example. This is also a good opportunity for doctoral students to meet fellow doctoral students and get to know the Aalto community during this 1,5-day event!
Doctoral personal study plan (DPSP)
As a supervising professor, you should discuss and agree on the Doctoral Personal Study Plan (DPSP) with your doctoral students at least once a year. Regardless of whether your student is employed by Aalto or not, we recommend discussing the topical parts of your DPSP at least once every six months, aligning with the typical timing of MyDialogue sessions. The DPSP has five parts: credit plan, research plan, supervision plan, financing plan and career palan. DPSP in the current format has been required of doctoral students since 1 August 2021.
Doctoral supervision newsletters
You will receive the Doctoral supervision newsletter about current affairs by email once every period. The newsletter is compiled by the Doctoral education services. Previous editions of the supervision newsletters can be accessed in PDF format on this page. You will also receive the student newsletter. Please, find the previous student newsletters here.
Doctoral page index
Index of all aalto.fi pages about doctoral education
Doctoral education services
We support the whole university in matters related to doctoral studies, especially doctoral students, supervising professors, thesis advisors and doctoral programme directors.
