Transformation of Doctoral Training in Poland

Abstract

This article discusses the developments in doctoral training in Poland. The reasons for a rapid growth in the number of PhD students (by a factor of twelve from 1990 to 2005) are explained and the associated problems and challenges are presented. The author will then demonstrate how these challenges have been dealt with in the Faculty of Electronics and Information Technology, Warsaw University of Technology, where a four year doctoral programme, combining coursework and individual research work, was introduced – as part of the three cycle study system – in 1999, long before doctorate level education formally became aligned with the Bologna Process. The programme appears suitable for the needs and expectations of candidates. Despite an unattractive financial offer, each semester sees quite a large number of good applicants. The total number of PhD students has exceeded 200 and the success rate has been relatively high.