Our programs

In addition to the classical requirements of the thesis work, each doctoral student has to follow doctoral level courses for a certain number of ECTS credits (by courses, we mean e.g. tutorials, lectures, conferences, seminars, workshops...). This learning activity is structured in the form of study programmes. Depending on the discipline chosen, study programmes have specific requirements.  

In general, the study programmes integrate not only the Faculty's own courses/events, but also inter-university programmes (such as CUSO, SIB, Swiss School of Public Health), UNIL programmes (language and transferable skills courses) as well as activities necessary for the researcher's training (e.g. participation in seminars, conferences...).

The choice of training courses is made in agreement with the thesis director and in accordance with the guidelines/standards of the Doctoral School (which sets the requirements for their recognition). Some training courses/events may have a cost, this aspect is to be discussed within the department in which the research work takes place.

At the end of your studies a certificate is delivered mentioning the study option you choose. Be aware that the study option will NOT be mentioned on the Doctorate in Life Sciences (PhD) diploma itself.

To start a thesis research, the candidate has first to find a thesis director.

Free study option:

• Life Sciences (general path)

With a study option:

• Cancer and Immunology
• Cardiovascular and Metabolism
• Ecology and Evolution
• Microbial Sciences
• Quantitative Biology

The student chooses the study plan during the admission process:

Enrolment in a study plan requires the agreement of the Thesis Director and of the Study Program Director.

Official enrolement is done during the UNIL admission process.

Life Sciences (FREE/customized study plan): Directly via the UNIL admission service during the admission process. You do not need to contact the Program Coordinator.

Life Sciences with a specific study option: you must contact the Program Coordinator/visit the appropriate website to get informed on the terms and conditions and apply for registration and then follow the UNIL admission process. 

For the Cancer and Immunology PhD Program, the candidate selection may be done on a competitive basis. Please, check their website.

Note: it is very important to get enrolled in the right track during the admission process.