Doctoral studies represent the highest level of higher education, comprising 240 ECTS credits. Completion of a PhD program generally requires the publication of scientific articles and culminates in the defense of a doctoral dissertation, after which the candidate is awarded the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree.
At the beginning of their doctoral studies, PhD candidate selects a research topic that aligns university’s doctoral programs. The topic is linked to a supervisor (or multiple supervisors) and correspond to the strategic research priorities of the Estonian University of Life Sciences (Eesti Maaülikool).
The PhD topics are predefined and determined before the admission period through the supervisor's competition. It is possible to apply only for these predefined topics.
Finding a supervisor is crucial, as PhD studies are based on cooperation between the student and the supervisor. Supervisors play a key role throughout the doctoral studies, providing academic guidance and methodological support to the PhD candidate.
Thus, it is highly recommended to contact to the supervisor.
Doctoral studies comprise both independent research and academic coursework, which supports the scientific development of the PhD candidate by providing essential methodological and theoretical knowledge.
PhD candidates must choose a research topic aligned with the university’s doctoral programs and research priorities.
Doctoral Dissertation – Writing and defending a thesis that makes a significant contribution to the field.
NB! Successful completion of a PhD program requires publishing scientific articles and defending a dissertation at an academic level!
✅ Seek to gain teaching experience – Many PhD students supervise undergraduate and master’s students and lead seminars and laboratory sessions.
📊 Consulting and Entrepreneurship – Establishing independent research initiatives or working as subject-matter experts.
NB! Doctoral studies offer a unique opportunity to contribute to scientific advancements, engage in international research, and develop professional expertise in a chosen discipline!
Our university offers five doctoral curricula: Agricultural Sciences, Engineering Sciences, Environmental Sciences and Applied Biology, Forestry, Veterinary Medicine and Food Science. Below, you will find their common structure and detailed description in Study Information System (ÕIS).
1.1. Science (7 ECTS) – Mandatory
The PhD student chooses one of the modules - Teaching or Entrepreneurship
1.2. University teaching (5 ECTS)
DK.0005 Higher Education Didactics (3 ECTS)
or
1.3. Entrepreneurship (5 ECTS)
2.1. Speciality subjects
The PhD student selects subjects in collaboration with their supervisor, based on their individual doctoral research.
Speciality subjects may include subjects from both Master’s and Doctoral studies, offered by our university or other higher education institutions.
2.2. Mathematical Statistics and Modelling (3 ECTS)
At least one statistics course is mandatory:
NB! Additional presentations can be counted under specialized courses.
Optional subjects are not mandatory!
NB! The total volume of the Speciality Module and Optional subjects must be at least 28 ECTS!
Administration
The general studies are coordinated by the Senior Specialist of Doctoral Studies, department of Academic Affairs.
The curriculum provides you with the best knowledge and skills to become a leader in the scientific community and contribute to shaping a sustainable future in academia, government and business!
The curriculum provides scientific expertise in forest ecosystems and their sustainable management. You are qualified to work as a lecturer, researcher or entrepreneur applying modern technologies.
The curriculum provides knowledge and skills in plant, animal, fish farming and rural economy. You are able to contribute in higher education, research, entrepreneurship, and government agencies!
The technology of the future is created here! Join a world-class international doctoral program and open the door to the world of science and innovation!
A doctoral graduate acquires scientific and analytical skills in veterinary medicine and food science, enabling them to work as a researcher, lecturer, entrepreneur or in other sectors.
Generally, an employment contract of junior researcher is signed with the doctoral candidate for four years.
Doctoral candidates who hold the junior researcher position have a dual status as both students and employees. They sign a fixed-term employment contract with a 1.0 workload for the nominal study period of four years.
The job responsibilities are based on an individual study plan and consist of at least 85% research, development, and creative activities. The salary is based on the Estonian national average wage, which for the 2025/2026 academic year is €1,951.
Doctoral progress is assessed annually through PhD studies evaluation. Employment continues only if the candidate receives a positive evaluation. If the candidate fails the evaluation, they will be exmatriculated, and the employment contract will be terminated.
The study place is created as an additional position, which is funded by the supervisor. Generally, the content and income of the doctoral candidate's research work are linked to the supervisor’s research project.
Doctoral candidates are entitled to all rights and requirements applicable to PhD students, as well as employment rights applicable to employees under a work contract.
Admission is open year-round, depending on the availability of suitable positions.
The PhD studies are carried out alongside their primary employment. They retain all PhD student rights. However, they do not have an employment contract with the university and therefore do not receive a salary from the university.
Industrial doctorate position is established based on the interests and needs of a private, public or third-sector organization/company. It is based on collaboration agreement between the partner organization, the university, and the doctoral candidate. These positions can be created and filled throughout the year.
The initiative to establish an industrial doctoral position comes from the partner organization, whose interests define the focus of the doctoral candidate’s research. The doctoral candidate must find supervisors from both the partner organization and the university.
The industrial doctorate candidate must meet all admission requirements for doctoral studies at the Estonian University of Life Sciences and their academic progress is evaluated on the same basis as other doctoral students.
Companies can apply for Cross-Sectoral Mobility Measure (SekMo)link opens in new page to fund the doctoral position.
Confidentiality and intellectual property rights.
NB! This program ensures strong collaboration between academia and industry, enhancing innovation and knowledge transfer, while providing the doctoral candidate with valuable research experience in a real-world context!
Here you will find all the necessary documents and guidelines to support your studies, from the individual study plan to the evaluation process.
We are partners of the project "Estonian Doctoral School" which connects students and supervisors, offering networking, interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of general skills.
Here you will find all the necessary information about defending your doctoral dissertation.
Chief Specialist in Environmetal Protection
Põllumajandus- ja keskkonnainstituut
Chair of Environmental Protection and Landscape Management
+372 7313071
+372 731307157503009
57503009