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Archived Curricula Guide 2017–2019
Curricula Guide is archieved. Please refer to current Curricula Guides
Doctoral programme in Interactive Technology

The doctoral programme in interactive technology prepares students for work as a researcher in demanding R&D positions in the field of human-technology interaction. Interactive technology is a decidedly multidisciplinary field that focuses on research and development in human-technology interaction, and presumes proficiency in the perspectives and research methods of the information, technology and human sciences. One of its key objectives is to innovate, research and develop new UI technologies so that they support natural human behaviour and enable versatile and fulfilling experiences to the best possible extent. Employment prospects for PhDs are good because the possibilities enabled by the technology and the ways in which they are used are constantly evolving and increasing.

The range of research methods is wide and studies can be undertaken with different qualifications. Holders of PhDs are well versed in the theories and methods of their own research traditions and the most common methods and considerations in the field. They can select the methods that are the best suited to their research questions.

R&D is closely related in interactive technology. The majority of doctoral graduates will work in companies and organisations outside the university.

Learning Outcomes

According to the Government Decree on University Degrees (794/2004, amended 1039/2013, §21) the objectives of scientific postgraduate education are that the student

1. Becomes thoroughly acquainted with her/his own field of research and its social significance

2. Gains the knowledge and skills needed to apply scientific research methods independently and critically and to produce new scientific knowledge within her/his field of research

3. Becomes acquainted with the development, basic problems and research methods of her/his field of research

4. Gains such knowledge of the general theory of science and of other disciplines relating to her/his own field of research as enables her/him to follow developments in them

5. Achieves sufficient communication and language skills and other abilities to work as an expert or a developer in demanding jobs and in international cooperation.

Study Planning and Guidance

Each doctoral student must draw up a personal study and supervisory plan together with his/her supervisors. The plan must specify intended doctoral coursework, course schedule and other modes of study, and the schedule and publication plan for the dissertation.

The plan must be drawn up when applying for doctoral studies and it can be updated during the first term of a student's doctoral studies, and his/her dissertation supervisors must approve it. The plan can be submitted to the Faculty's Doctoral Education Commitee for the Committee's information. Approval of the study and supervisory plan will be entered into the study register at the Faculty. The plan must be updated once a year.

Progressing in your Studies

The scope, instruction, and supervision given in doctoral programmes have been planned so that the doctoral dissertation can be completed in four years. The estimated time for graduation is during the fifth year of studies. Doctoral students must report on the progress of their studies and research to the School once a year.

The following post-master degrees are offered at the Doctoral Programme in Interactive Technology (in accordance with Government Decree on University Degrees 794/2004):

  •     Doctor of Philosophy
  •     Licentiate of Philosophy (an optional intermediate step towards the doctoral degree)

The major subject of the Doctoral programme is Interactive Technology.

Responsible Conduct of Research

More information can be found at the Study Guide.

Related Courses:

Faculty of Communication Sciences