Skoltech is an international graduate research-focused university that was founded by the group of world-renowned scientists in 2011. Skoltech's curriculum focuses on technology and innovation, offering Master's programs in 11 technological disciplines. Students receive rigorous theoretical and practical training, design their own research projects, participate in internships and gain entrepreneurial skills in English. The faculty is comprised of current researchers with international accreditation and achievements.

Double PhD Degree

An agreement for joint supervision of a PhD student, also known as Cotutelle, is one of the forms for international collaboration that is offered at Skoltech.  It aims to let a PhD student conduct his/her research, get co-supervision and finally receive two degrees from both Skoltech and a partner university, preparing and defending only one thesis.

  • WHO can get enrolled into a Double PhD Degree?
Any PhD student supported by his/her co-supervisors at Skoltech and at a partner university, being ready to comply with the following general requirements:

  • The PhD student must have a different supervisor at each university.
  • The PhD student must have a period of stay at both universities. The period spent at Skoltech normally has to be not less than 2 academic years in total.
  • Funding for the period of studies and research abroad should not be provided by Skoltech.
  • The PhD student must be enrolled in both universities. The training part must satisfy the requirements (credits and publications) of both universities.
  • The PhD student must prepare one thesis as a result of the research work conducted at two universities. The Thesis is written and defended in English.
  • PhD defense can take place either at Skoltech or at a partner university.
  • The PhD student must defend the thesis in oral form in front of a joint assessing body (also known as PhD defense jury). The compositions of the Jury shall include at least 5 members, comply with Skoltech PhD Defense policy and be approved by a partner university.
  • The PhD Student shall receive a degree from each university.
Show more
Show less
  • WHY shall anyone consider a Double PhD Degree? 

It allows a PhD student to benefit from a partner university’s expertise and access additional research facilities. As the result of joint research work a PhD student prepares and defends one thesis, and receives two internationally recognized degrees.

  •  WHEN shall a Double PhD Degree start? 

It’s recommended to initiate the discussion before the start of the program or in its early stage and have the agreement finalized within the first year of PhD studies. The agreement itself can be signed only after a PhD student is officially enrolled in both universities.

  • WHAT are the steps required towards a Double PhD Degree? 

Please follow the guide.