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A new report published by the European University Association (EUA) gives an important insight into the state of doctoral education in Europe.
The report highlights the latest trends in this key sector of higher education, such as, the introduction of new organisational structures to manage doctoral education, the increasing focus on learning 'transferable skills' and the growth in new types of doctoral programmes such as 'professional doctorates'. Equally, it underlines the challenges that Europe faces if it is serious about attracting and retaining the best young research talent.
Amongst the findings, EUA's work underlines that stakeholders (universities and public authorities) must do more to widen participation, to improve mechanisms for supervision and assessment, and to promote the international mobility of doctoral candidates. They must also take steps to ensure professional skills development is an integral part of all doctoral training.
The report also shows that national funding policies for doctoral education are too often fragmented, with a lack of coordination between government ministries, research councils and other funders. This fragmentation does not create favourable conditions for Europe to attract and retain the best doctoral candidates, who are often held back by inadequate funding and a lack of career opportunities.
Doctoral Programmes in Europe's Universities: Achievements and Challenges
European University Association (EUA), September 2007.
September 17, 2007
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