Developments in doctoral studies in the European higher education area: composite study and analysis of the reports of the EUA unit ‘Council for doctoral education’ (EUA-CDE) (full text in Greek)

Abstract

The aim of this study is to present the progress of doctoral studies in the European Higher Education Area, as it was recorded by the EUA-CDE unit. Since 2005 when the Salzburg Principles were established there has been major progress in research training where the development of Doctoral Schools was the most important. Their main objective was to enhance the quality of doctoral programs within a well-defined framework where appropriate funding is ensured along with the connection to the employment market. Universities are becoming more aware as far as doctoral training is concerned. Moreover, doctoral candidates are now incorporated in the wider framework of university studies, while courses for their preparation are also offered. The contribution of EUA-CDE is highlighted since through its seminars, workshops and projects it has promoted the working dialogue between Higher Education Institutes not only for achieving the implementation of the Salzburg Principles but also for taking them forward. The result of this procedure was the improvement of doctoral studies. However, it is vital that the reforms in doctoral studies should be extended to sectors such as research ethics, and digital media, which have boosted open access to information and to international collaboration in research.