In Estonia, as in other parts of the world, the dropout rate in doctoral studies is alarmingly high. A good supervisor is key to success in doctoral education. Various studies and feedback have shown that one of the main reasons for dropouts and prolonged studies is the quality of supervision: unclear expectations, lack of support, and difficult relationships with the supervisor.
In recent years, TalTech has increasingly focused on improving the supervisory skills of doctoral supervisors – by training supervisors, we are shaping a new academic culture. Since 2022, the university has implemented a systematic supervisor training program aimed at supporting both new and experienced supervisors so that they can provide doctoral students with high-quality and supportive guidance. Starting this year, the training is conducted by TalTech’s own doctoral supervisors from various faculties who have completed an international supervisor trainer program under Prof. Helmut Brentel.
TalTech’s supervisor training program is unique in Estonia. Although the Estonian Doctoral School offers workshops to develop supervisory skills, other universities have not yet established an equivalent systematic and long-term training program specifically for doctoral supervisors.
What makes a good supervisor a good supervisor?
For every doctoral student, the beginning is difficult, mainly because the doctoral studies differ significantly from previous learning experiences. A good supervisor helps to clarify the research problem, choose the methodology and theoretical framework, and ensure that the research work complies with academic standards and expectations.
A good supervisor acts more as a mentor than a boss – they challenge, encourage the doctoral student to think critically and analyze, be creative in finding solutions, while also maintaining motivation. Yannick Le Moullec, one of the supervisor trainers, highlights the various roles of a supervisor: “In addition to academic guidance, they are an agent, psychologist, manager, coach, and friend.” Therefore, building and maintaining a trusting supervisory relationship is extremely important.
A good supervisor helps a doctoral student grow into an independent researcher. Clear communication of expectations and regular feedback are key elements in this process. The training focuses on teaching these skills through case studies, role-playing, and sharing experiences with colleagues. This last aspect is particularly emphasized by the supervisors attending the training.
The practical value of the training for participants
Deniece Aiken formulates the main reason why participating in the training is most valuable for her: "The training provides the opportunity to share experiences, analyze real-life cases with more experienced colleagues, and learn from each other. All of this is supported by a strong theoretical foundation."
The skills acquired in the training can be quickly and successfully applied in real life. This is confirmed by Mihkel Kõrgesaar in his feedback: "I liked the idea of how to organize meetings with a PhD student. I plan to implement this four-point plan in my next meeting with the doctoral students."
As of today, over 80 supervisors at TalTech have completed the supervisor training program, guiding more than 100 PhD students. The first signs of positive changes are already visible – the satisfaction of PhD students with supervision has increased, and the number of dropouts has started to decrease.
Significant changes in the number of doctoral defenses and on-time graduations are expected within the next 2-3 years. The training programs will continue until at least 2026, and all those who wish to grow as supervisors – both new and experienced researchers – are welcome to participate.
The article was published in the Tallinn University of Technology magazine Mente et Manu.
Doctoral studies as a meaningful and impactful career choice
"At the workplace, you constantly need to learn new things to maintain professionalism. So why not achieve a scientific degree in this field as well?" encourages Ragnar Kauril, a TalTech industrial doctoral student and chemical technology development engineer at Enefit Industry.
TalTech offers both young graduates and experienced specialists a practical and forward-looking career choice, which can be pursued alongside an existing career or as a primary job.
"Doctoral studies are not an extension of childhood and student years – they are a powerful profession through which master's graduates gain a significant competitive advantage in academia, the public sector, and business. For those already working in the public sector or in business, completing a doctoral program brings a tremendous leap in development," says TalTech's Vice-Rector for Entrepreneurship and Research, Erik Puura.
TalTech's doctoral program welcomes graduates from master's studies, both from TalTech and other Estonian universities, as well as industry specialists interested in industrial or knowledge transfer doctoral studies, and career changers seeking new meaning and a deeper impact in their professional lives.
At Tallinn University of Technology, doctoral studies can be pursued in four fields: information and communication technology, natural sciences, engineering sciences (including maritime), and business, economics, and administration.
Summer admission for doctoral studies at TalTech ended on June 30, 2025. For the autumn admission documents can be submitted until October 26, 2025.
More information: https://taltech.ee/en/PhD/home
