Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science (DPNurs)
Program Overview
Introduction to the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science
The Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science (DPNurs) at the University of Turku provides systematic doctoral education in the field of nursing science. The program aims to educate high-level researchers and experts in nursing science who can promote innovative and scientifically competent research in different fields of nursing science, nursing, and healthcare.
Program Overview
DPNurs is well-known for its research and education both nationally and internationally. It is an integral part of the University of Turku's Department of Nursing Science, which is among the best corresponding units in Finland and Europe. The program offers a wide selection of doctoral education through its participation in five networks of doctoral education in nursing science.
Research Areas and Networks
The Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science is part of the Finnish Doctoral Education Network in Nursing Science, which covers all Finnish universities providing doctoral education in nursing science. This network offers a broad range of research areas and topics for doctoral studies, ensuring that students can find a field that aligns with their interests and career goals.
Steering Committee
The Steering Committee of DPNurs is composed of professors from the Department of Nursing Science and other faculties within the University of Turku, as well as representatives from healthcare organizations. The committee is responsible for overseeing the program's strategic development, ensuring its academic quality, and making decisions on admissions and graduations.
Members of the Steering Committee 2025-2029
- Riitta Suhonen, Professor, Director of the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science (Chair)
- Anna Axelin, Professor, Department of Nursing Science
- Mari Kangasniemi, Professor, Department of Nursing Science
- Minna Stolt, Professor, Department of Nursing Science
- Heli Virtanen, Professor, Department of Nursing Science
- Seppo Virtanen, Professor, Faculty of Technology
- Anne Heimo, Professor, Faculty of Humanities
- Markus Juonala, Professor, Department of Clinical Medicine
- Tuija Lehtikunnas, TYKS Hospital Director of Nursing at Wellbeing Services County of Southwest Finland
- Jenna Poraharju, Doctoral Researcher, Department of Nursing Science (until 7.2027)
- Secretary: Hanna Heikelä, Coordinator, Research Career Unit
Funded Doctoral Researcher Positions
The University of Turku offers funded doctoral researcher positions for students in the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science. These positions are awarded through a competitive process, and the selection is based on the applicant's academic merit, research potential, and fit with the program's research areas.
Selected Applicants for 2024-2027
- Dong, Xiaolan: 6 months in 2024, 12 months in 2025, 12 months in 2026
- Hiltunen, Tina: 12 months in 2025, 12 months in 2026
- Inkeroinen, Saija: 12 months in 2025
- Kubota, Kaile: 6 months in 2024, 12 months in 2025
- von Gerich, Hanna: 12 months in 2024, 12 months in 2025
Reserve Positions for 2024
- Hiltunen, Tina (12 months)
- Pellikka, Hanna-Kaisa and Satamo, Maija (12 months)
- Kommusaar, Janne (12 months)
- Arjama, Anna-Liisa and Hyytiä, Sasu (12 months)
- Yasmeen, Samina (12 months)
Events and Conferences
The Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science participates in and organizes various events and conferences, providing students with opportunities to network, present their research, and learn from international experts in the field.
PhD Summer School of Baltic Sea Region Network in Personalized Health Care
- Date: June 5-7, 2024
- Location: University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Theme: Engaging stakeholders in research
Advances in Health Care Sciences Conference
- Date: November 14-15, 2024
- Location: Stockholm
- Focus: Research addressing challenges and future directions in healthcare
Testimonials
DPNurs offers a unique opportunity for doctoral students to conduct their research in an international and inspiring atmosphere, with empowering supervision and peer support.
Conclusion
The Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science at the University of Turku is a premier program for those seeking to advance their careers in nursing science research and education. With its strong international connections, wide range of research areas, and commitment to academic excellence, DPNurs provides students with a comprehensive and supportive environment to achieve their doctoral goals.