For decision-makers

A solution to boost Finland’s competitiveness and competence level

Finland’s competitiveness and economic growth require change. The productivity and innovation capacity of companies are not developing fast enough. Companies need high-level, workplace-oriented research and development expertise to grow and succeed internationally.

Professional Doctorate education directly addresses these challenges. Research problems and development needs arise from companies and working life, and solutions are implemented during the research process.

Why now?

Finland needs new tools to strengthen economic growth and competitiveness. We are already falling behind international development and need a boost to raise the national competence level and RDI activities.

Professional Doctorate education brings applied research and innovation directly to companies and society. A decision now enables the first doctoral graduates already in the early 2030s.

Benefits of Professional Doctorate education for Finland

• Accelerates the transfer of research results into practice. Research problems and solutions emerge from working life, and results benefit companies and society immediately.
• Strengthens business growth and internationalisation. High-level expertise and innovations support the competitiveness of companies.
• Boosts Finland’s competitiveness. Enhancing companies’ competence and RDI activities is key to turning the economy towards growth and improving competitiveness.
• Expands access to higher education. Professional Doctorate offers a new career path and an opportunity to develop expertise in a workplace-oriented way. It provides a clear continuation for competence development after a Master’s degree from a university of applied sciences.