Cotutelle Agreements
Técnico offers the possibility for students to enroll in Cotutelle PhDs.
What is a Cotutelle PhD?
A Cotutelle PhD is a jointly supervised programme established between two institutions from different countries. A student enrolled in this programme submits and defends a single PhD thesis, after which each institution issues an independent PhD diploma. These diplomas will reference the joint supervision Cotutelle agreement and the participating institutions. Typically, a Cotutelle PhD Programme lasts four years of full-time study.
What are the main characteristics of a Cotutelle PhD?
How to join a Cotutelle PhD programme?
Cotutelle PhD programmes are set through:
- Individual agreements
- Framework agreements
Individual agreements typically involve a specific PhD student enrolled in a Cotutelle PhD programme, with research co-supervised by advisors from two institutions. These agreements specify the PhD student’s name and the supervisors from both institutions. Generally, these individual agreements are established based on the supervisors’ shared interest in developing a particular PhD research topic.
Individual agreements follow this general minute and must be discussed with the Técnico Post-Graduation Office.
Framework agreements are broader in scope and may involve multiple institutions. These agreements may be centered on specific scientific fields or particular PhD programmes. They are typically referred to as “Dual Degrees,” though the fundamental principles are similar to Cotutelle PhD programmes. PhD candidates apply for these programmes within specific deadline and according to predefined rules.
Técnico is currently involved in the following Cotutelle framework agreements:
- IST-CMU Portugal
- Framework Agreement for a Unite! Cotutelle partnership