What a Doctoral programme generally looks like

A Doctoral programme has set elements for the beginning, middle and end.

The start of your Doctoral programme

In consultation with your supervisor(s):

• Define your research objective and draw up a research plan
• Draft a Training and Supervision Plan (OBP) with your supervisor. This records matters such as research design, timeline, teaching, training, supervision, career orientation, and budget

Collecting research results

• You collect your results
• You will often write one or two draft chapters of your thesis

Writing and final phase

• You write your thesis
• Defending your thesis (the doctoral defence) is the official completion of your PhD track

Facilities and support

UvA offers various facilities and resources you can consult for information and help, such as:

• Training and courses, financial support, and assistance with practical matters
• Opportunities to meet other PhD candidates and to develop your creative or sporting side
• Contact points and provisions for PhD candidates who experience stress, mental health issues or unwanted behaviour during their PhD (check with your supervisor which facilities apply to you, as it may differ per type of PhD programme)

Representation of PhD candidates

PhD candidates are represented by the Central PhD Council (CPC). The CPC consists of delegates from the faculty PhD councils. They identify issues and discuss them with the Executive Board.