Department of Nursing Science

Transcription

1 Department of Nursing Science Quality Manual 1

2 Contents 1 Mission, vision and strategy Mission, vision and strategy Organization and administration of the Department of Nursing Science Recognition of customer requirements Quality policy Organization, implementation and documentation of quality management 6 2 Resources Personnel Human resources policy and strategic human resources planning Recruiting Well-being and job satisfaction Orientation and training Equality, parity and accessibility Working hours and compensation Development discussions Work safety and related risk assessment Participation of personnel Students Funding Basic funding of Department Supplementary funding Premises, equipment and research materials 12 3 Processes Key processes Strategic management and the performance management process Core processes Research process Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science Education process Process of basic degree education Bachelor and Master of Health Sciences education in Nursing Science Processes related to non-degree studies and supplementary education Process of societal interaction and educational mission Responsibility and sustainable development promotion process Support processes 25 2

3 4 Assessment and development of operations Indicators and feedback systems Indicators Feedback systems Audits and assessments Internal auditing External audits and peer assessments Research assessment Assessment of education, teaching and learning Assessment of interaction with the community Other assessments Management of claims and development targets Analysis of data and development of operations Management reviews 29 5 Appendices 30 3

4 1 Mission, vision and strategy 1.1 Mission, vision and strategy THE MISSION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NURSING SCIENCE is to generate nursing science research that is of an internationally high standard and realize high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate education. The Department endeavours to strengthen the promotion of health and the quality of life amongst the populace by targeting research on these areas, also in compliance with national health policy definitions and through training multidisciplinary specialists and by taking regional development requirements into consideration. The Department of Nursing Science s research and education are in line with the health and well-being branch of the Faculty of Health Sciences and University of Eastern Finland. THE VALUES OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NURSING SCIENCE are based on the values specified in the University of Eastern Finland s main quality manual-based strategy: the freedom, ethicality and fairness of science. THE VISION OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NURSING SCIENCE is that, by 2016, it will be a unit known and respected for its innovative national and international research, and educational operations in nursing science. The Department shall be an inspiring and creative work and study environment. The Department of Nursing Science is committed to the emerging strategy of the University of Eastern Finland ( and the Faculty of the Health Sciences ( b6693b60b911). The Department implements its own strategy ( d70cd10424bb). 1.2 Organization and administration of the Department of Nursing Science The Department of Nursing Science operates at the Kuopio campus of the University of Eastern Finland, and is one of the Faculty of Health Sciences five departments. The operations of the Department are managed by the Head of Department in cooperation with the Vice Head of Department, in accordance with the University of Eastern Finland s Administrative Regulations, section 14, through handling and resolving the matters of the Unit they manage. The 4

5 Head of Department is responsible to the Dean for achieving the objectives set, and participates in the Faculty of Health Sciences Management Group. Nursing science education is planned, implemented and assessed at the nursing science education meetings, which comprise the entire teaching staff and are led by the senior named in charge of each academic subject. In addition, the Department has teams concerned with educational sector-based nursing science didactics, nursing management and preventive nursing, as well as fluctuating, taskbased specialist teams. The Nursing Science Education Development and Assessment Committee is an advisory organ in which the Professor of Nursing Science functions as Chairperson and the senior lecturer named in charge of the academic subject as Secretary. Its members consist of four persons from the Department s teaching staff as well as three students. The student members are elected by the Student Union of the University of Eastern Finland. The Educational Development and Assessment Committee deals with how the information obtained from customers and interest groups regarding needs and expectations are taken into consideration in planning, implementing and developing education. The Committee convenes as required, but at least twice (2x) a year. The minutes of these meetings are available on the W-station intranet of the Department of Nursing Science. The representatives of the Department of Nursing Science function on the Faculty of Health Sciences Undergraduate Education Committee as well as on the Research and Postgraduate Education Committee. 1.3 Recognition of customer requirements Undergraduate and postgraduate students represent important internal customers for the Department of Nursing Science. The students have a professional degree in health care as background education and many have work experience in the field. Many students have families of their own, live long-term in a locality outside Kuopio, and frequently study part-time in connection with their work. The students expect education that is implemented in an open atmosphere, based on professionally-skilled research of a high standard; flexible learning environments that respond to the learning requirements of adult students; and personal study plan (HOPS) guidance to support the progress of their studies. For the purpose of identifying the needs of students, student feedback is gathered from several courses, which the teachers as well as the Educational Development and Assessment Committee deal with. The feedback system shall be harmonized in accordance with the recommendations issued by the University s Education Advisory Board. The relevance of studies to working life is monitored by means of surveys targeted to the University s graduates. Personnel represent an important internal customer for the Department. The staff expect open and participatory action as well as a thoroughly secure employment relationship and working environment. Also required are supportive leadership and wage policies as well as sufficient and correctly targeted information to develop one s own functions. 5

6 Pivotal internal customers and partners for the Department of Nursing Science include the Faculty of Health Sciences Office and Departments; the University of Eastern Finland s Society for Students in the Health Sciences, TERHO ry; the University s other Departments; Open University; Summer University; and the Units producing the University s support functions. External customers and partners for the Department of Nursing Science include Kuopio University Hospital, the fields of activity in the social welfare, health services and education respective to the City of Kuopio, and Savonia University of Applied Sciences social welfare and health field as well as, nationally and internationally, several education, service, organizational and research units in public health care and other fields in addition to scientific associations and funds. Important national interest groups also include the Ministry of Education and Culture, Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, and the Academy of Finland. The Ministry of Education and Culture expects that the Department, as a part of the Faculty of Health Sciences, will produce degrees in accordance with the totals agreed annually during the performance negotiations. The Academy of Finland expects the implementation of a national nursing science doctoral school of a high standard, in cooperation with other departments of nursing science by the end of Foreign customers include research and education partners in the Nordic countries and many European nations, as well as in Russia, the United States and Asia at universities and other specialist organizations. The community and business life require that University graduates possess, in addition to concrete skills, academic readiness such as team work skills, language and communications-related skills, search skills in new knowledge and information technology-based readiness. In implementing its education, the Department of Nursing Science takes these expectations into consideration. Society and the scientific community expect innovative, ethically sustainable and relevant research contributions from the Department. Research funders require high-standard research of excellent quality as well as good research management. The Department of Nursing Science is profiled towards the Faculty of Health Sciences and the University of Eastern Finland s research-related fields of strong expertise ( and observes ethically acceptable operational modes in its research operations. 1.4 Quality policy The Department of Nursing Science is committed with regard to its quality policies to the University of Eastern Finland s joint quality policies ( 1.5 Organization, implementation and documentation of quality management As of 2006, the quality management system of the Department of Nursing Science has been established within the quality system of the University of Kuopio (now University of Eastern Finland), according to the ISO9001:2000 system. The Head of Department and Vice Head are in charge of the quality work for the Department. The person in charge of quality for the Department working in pair with the person responsible for quality on a vice basis are responsible for the maintenance and updating of the Quality Manual as well as quality work development, in cooperation with the 6

7 Department s management and staff. The persons in charge of quality belong to the Faculty of Health Sciences quality team. All members of the Department of Nursing Science staff are on their part responsible for high-quality operations and results consistent with the objectives. Students are expected to take part in operational development by providing feedback and participating via their representatives in the operation of various university bodies. The Head of Department approves and signs the Quality Manual of the Department of Nursing Science. The Quality Manual revisions and quality matters are discussed at the Department's staff meeting. The quality system is also reported to the staff, interest groups and students on the Department s website. New students are informed about the quality system in the letter of acceptance and information occasion for new students. There is an electronic version of the Department of Nursing Science s Quality Manual on the Department s website. The original version on paper is stored in the Department s Office and the original electronic version is in the custody of the Department s person in charge of quality. The formulators, approver, date and version number of the Quality Manual as well as the quality documentation, records and other information connected with its processes as collated in Appendices 1 and 2 emerge therein. The old original versions on paper are stored in the Department Office permanently, and the old original electronic versions are with the person in charge of quality. Storage of the updated and old versions is the task of the person responsible for quality. The Quality Manual is updated in its entirety annually and more frequently with regard to the sections requiring it. 2 Resources 2.1 Personnel The Department staff is comprised of five professors in nursing science, a university researcher, a post doctoral researcher, a clinical researcher (joint post with university, 52 %, and university hospital, 48 %), four university lecturers in nursing and nursing education, two university teachers, two post doctoral research fellows, two early stage researchers (PhD students), doctoral students, and two secretaries located at the unit, as well as two other secretaries working part time at the Department ( With regard to the Department of Nursing Science s education and research staff, the four-stage research career model, approved by the Ministry of Education and Culture (MEC) and the University of Eastern Finland, is observed. Part-time teachers are recruited according to requirement Human resources policy and strategic human resources planning In accordance with its strategy, the University carries out human-oriented and competitive human resources policy. The core of the human resources policy is made up of well-being at work, respect for academic freedom, equality and professional management. The University of Eastern Finland s human resources strategy and policies are observed at the Department of Nursing Science. The 7

8 objectives, measures and indicators relating to staff wellbeing at the Department are presented in the Department s strategy With regard to the employment positions established through operational expense funding, a strategic human resource plan is to be launched which the Rector shall confirm annually on the basis of the proposal made by the Faculty Council. The strategic human resources plan concerns employment relationships currently in effect as well as assignments compliant with the four-stage career model. This plan is a tool for the implementation of strategy and it supports the systematic recruiting policies Recruiting Staff recruiting is open. The University s Administration Centre declares open positions available. In practice, the aim is that compensation remains harmonized throughout the university as a whole. An employment agreement is always signed in writing. According to the University Act, the Rector selects the staff. The Rector has nevertheless delegated his/her authority to the Academic Rector and to the deans of the faculties. The Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences has further delegated, for the Department Heads to resolve, the hiring of staff to assume part-time temporary teaching duties. The Director of the Administration has delegated, as the task of the Faculties deans, the work leaves for the Faculty s staff that are not linked to financial benefits. S/he is also responsible for providing letters of reference to Faculty staff, making annual holiday decisions with respect to the Faculty, and implementing decisions concerned with giving notice respective to Faculty staff. The employment of University personnel is based on contract. With regard to the terms of employment, the universities currently valid collective agreement is observed Well-being and job satisfaction The topic of occupational well-being is also considered important with respect to well-being at work at the University of Eastern Finland. The employer has the possibility to impact on occupational wellbeing and to taking care of this is indeed the responsibility of the management. The employer has responsibility for working conditions and ergonomics, management development and the orientation of new employees to their work, as well as training and the provision of feedback that encourages development. The staff s well-being at work (TYHY) within the Department of Nursing Science is based on the University s general well-being at work functions. It is maintained and promoted through an open working atmosphere. Each employee has the possibility to affect the Department's operations at staff and other meetings, as well as in the development discussions. The Department has appointed a person in charge of TYHY as well as a working group which surveys hopes and wishes connected with TYHY operations at the staff meetings (Appendix 2). The University of Eastern Finland awarded the Department in 2011 with an Occupational Well-being Pride award as the unit that was best at developing the occupational well-being of its personnel. 8

9 The occupational well-being (hereby referred to as the Finnish acronym TYHY) working group formulates a well-being at work plan and budget on an annual basis, in addition to designing the Department s well-being at work activities, e.g. the joint TYHY Days. The allowance for well-being at work operations that must be reserved is per staff employee. TYHY activities are collective and open to all Department personnel. Suomen Terveystalo Oy is responsible for occupational health care. A medical examination before taking up employment applies to everyone beginning a work contract that lasts at least one year. The responsibility of the immediate supervisors is to ensure that the new employees are directed to medical checkups. Information distribution on occupational health is part of the orientation. The University of Eastern Finland s Kuopio campus is a smoke-free place of employment Orientation and training The orientation of new employees to the operations of the Department of Nursing Science and University is implemented by the Head of Department, Vice Head of Department and all personnel participate in being familiarized in the content of their own area of expertise as required. New employees are guided to participation in the orientation occasions arranged by the Faculty and University. Those receiving orientation are encouraged to look for related support information from the Quality Manuals and web pages of the Department of Nursing Science, Faculty and University. These are important tools for the orientation process. The Department uses an orientation form of the university. All employees have the responsibility to maintain and develop their own expertise. The training needs of personnel are agreed annually during the development discussions participated in by employees and the Head of Department as well as his/her Deputy. Personnel are encouraged to take part in the training arranged by the University and, according to requirement, external training as well. Teachers and researchers are encouraged to participate in the University-based pedagogical education in addition to developing their research expertise and internationality skills. Employees store their certificates of participation in training and keep them as part of their CVs or portfolios Equality, parity and accessibility The University of Eastern Finland s equality and parity programme for directs the operations of the Department. The studying and teaching arrangements are realized so that the various groups of the disabled and special learners obtain the support they need for studying. In special arrangements affecting studying, the student can contact the Faculty of Health Sciences Head of Academic Affairs or the university teacher for the Department of Nursing Science. General instructions can also be obtained from the Student Psychologist and Student Union Secretary. Student Services handles matters related to accessible studying. A recommendation concerning accessible studying is under preparation at the University. The recommendations can be found on the University s accessibility pages ( 9

10 2.1.6 Working hours and compensation The personnel s working hours are determined by the Working Hours Act and the collective agreements that supplement it. Everyone working for the University should target his/her working hours to the SoleTM system in accordance with the following principles. Staff compensation is applied as a rule by the universities compensation system, which is composed of that share of salary based on the competence required by the task and the share of salary based on personal work-related performance. In assessing the competence level of work tasks, the main factors in the teaching and research staff system are the type of work and responsibility involved as well as the interaction skills and knowledge-/ability-related readiness required by the task. In the system for other personnel, the main factors are the content of the task as well as its required problem-solving and organizational skills, interaction skills and knowledge- and ability-based readiness. The personal salary component in the system is determined on the basis of the person s performance level, which is examined in the assessment discussions between the person and his/her supervisor. Assessment discussions are organized every two years Development discussions The Head of Department and Vice Head engage in annual development discussions with the personnel in which the employees as well as those in charge of the Department give and receive feedback on their operations. The University s development discussion form is utilized in these development discussions. The original is stored in the Head of Department s binder in a locked cabinet during the Head of Department's period of tenure and a copy thereof with the employee Work safety and related risk assessment A risk assessment was performed at the Department of Nursing Science in 2003 and an inspection in 2007: according to the latter, there are no significant work safety risks. A risk assessment is performed with the change in the work premises. Attention is being paid at the Department to ergonomics by, for instance, renewing the furniture. The person in charge of safety and risk management at the Department of Nursing Science is the university teacher. The person in charge of the Department s first-aid cabinet is the Administrative Secretary (Appendix 2). Appropriate work behaviour-based guidance is observed at the Department of Nursing Science Participation of personnel The personnel of the Department of Nursing Science participate in the Faculty of Health Sciences joint action meetings. The staff as a whole take part in a Development Day organized 1-2 times a year, during which the following, for example, are handled: Department-related strategy work, research policies, educational development, qualify efforts, and other current matters of interest. The Head of Department is responsible for the Development Day and the personnel participate in its planning and realization. The Communications Secretary prepares a memorandum of the Development Day, which is stored in electronic format on the W:\HO drive in the Staff Meetings file and, in paper form, in the Department Office for three (3) years. 10

11 About once a month, a regular Staff Meeting is held where all crucial matters related to Department operations are discussed and reported with regard to current matters of interest and quality issues to the Faculty and University. The Head of Department or Vice Head convenes the Staff Meeting. The Communications Secretary sends an invitation to meeting to the staff by . The Chairperson for the meeting is the Head of Department or Vice Head, and its Secretary is the Communications Secretary. The minutes of the meeting are stored in electronic format on the W:\HO drive in the Staff Meetings folder and preserved in paper form at the Department Office for a period of three (3) years. Nursing science education meetings (HOTE) are held at the Department about once a month during the academic terms. At the meetings, matters connected with education and its development are discussed as well as student feedback and related measures, assessments and follow-ups. The senior lecturer appointed to be in charge of nursing science as an academic subject convenes the meeting. S/he also functions as its Chairperson. The Communications Secretary acts as the Secretary for the meeting. The minutes of the meeting are stored in electronic format on the W:\HO drive in the Nursing Science Education Meetings (HOTE) folder and preserved in paper form in the Department s Office for a period of three (3) years. Nursing Science Didactics Education Meetings are held 2 3 times per term. Matters connected with education in the didactics of nursing science and their development as well as student feedback are handled at the meetings. The Professor in Nursing Science (Didactics) functions as Chairperson. S/he also convenes the meeting. The Secretary for the meeting is agreed at the meeting itself. The minutes of the meeting are stored in electronic format on the W:\HO drive in the Nursing Science Didactics Meetings (HOTE) folder and preserved in paper form at the Department Office for a period of three (3) years. 2.2 Students The students well-being and graduation in keeping with schedule as consistent with the degree objectives are, according to the strategy, primary goals of the University, Faculty and Department. Students participation in the development of the university s functions is described in the Administrative Regulations. The Department promotes the objectives by gathering feedback from the students and developing its operations in the direction guided by the feedback. The students have study guidance available throughout the entire study path as, for instance, HOPS guidance and in the form of regular teacher/tutor encounters. The students have three representatives on the Education Development and Assessment Committee. Their selection is organized by the Student Union. The subject organization for students of nursing science at the University of Eastern Finland is the Terho Student Association. The students at the Department of Nursing Science have representation on the Faculty of Health Sciences Faculty Council as well as on the Undergraduate and Postgraduate Education Committees. The Management of the Department meets the representatives of the academic subject organization as agreed during the term. 11

12 The Department of Nursing Science is a unit that actively participates in student exchange. The department engages in international cooperation with several universities. With regard to student exchange, close cooperation is engaged in with the University of Eastern Finland s Centre for International Relations An International Coordinator as well as Deputy have been appointed for the Department, who look after the practical matters of international studying. The Department has student exchange agreements on the Department level as well as in cooperation with other departments and faculties. 2.3 Funding Funding at the Department of Nursing Science is composed of both basic funding and external supplementary funding Basic funding of Department The basic funding of the Department is being implemented in accordance with the allocation mechanism for basic funding formulated by the Faculty of Health Sciences during the every autumn Supplementary funding The actors at the Department of Nursing Science apply for and obtain supplementary funding from national funders (e.g. Academy of Finland, foundations) as well as from international ones (e.g. the EU) via bid-for-tender application procedures. With regard to supplementary funding, the jurisdiction provisions and contracting regulations as well as the instructions and provisions issued by the funders are observed. A detailed description of the supplementary funding processes has been formulated at the Faculty of Health Sciences (link to the Faculty of Health Sciences Quality Manual). The objective of the guidelines is to assist the persons in charge of the projects as well as personnel participating in other project functions to prepare, realize and report on supplementary funding projects. The Faculty s guidelines supplement the University of Eastern Finland s jurisdiction provisions and contracting regulations as well as the instructions and provisions issued by the funders. 2.4 Premises, equipment and research materials The Department s premises are located in Canthia on the 3 rd floor. The Department has fifteen workrooms, office facilities, a researchers room, small meeting room, mail room and combined conference and staff dining area. The Department s education is arranged according to the academic schedule within the premises announced. The factors connected with the data security of operations are taken into consideration at the Department of Nursing Science by, for instance, implementing the University s archiving rules, research ethics-related instructions and in practice by keeping, e.g. the doors of the workrooms locked after vacating them. 12

13 3 Processes 3.1 Key processes DEPARTMENT OF NURSING SCIENCE QUALITY MANUAL Strategic management and the performance management process The purpose of the process is to implement the strategy of the Department of Nursing Science and the Faculty of Health Sciences for the accomplishment of its mission and vision as well as for the development of processes and ensuring sufficient quality. The operations are target-oriented, systematic and flexible in the sense that the Department is capable of reacting quickly to changing circumstances and its operational demands, as well as improving its operational quality and effectiveness and achieving its central goals. The Head of the Department participates in outcome evaluation meetings with the University management. The Head of Department is responsible for the process. The Head of the Department of Nursing Science manages and coordinates the Department s functions and strategic planning. The Head of Department guides and motivates the staff under her management in jointly functioning in compliance with the agreed values and objectives. At least one Development Day is organized annually at the Department of Nursing Science, and the staff are encouraged to participate in the Faculty of Health Sciences faculty and staff meetings. Performance management takes place annually by means of the performance negotiations and Strategy Day. The Head of the Department of Nursing Science monitors, on the basis of the Department s mission, vision and objectives, selected indicators with regard to education, research and its task in the community, and bases its strategic planning on regulation-compliant assessment and the observations of the management review for the development of operational quality. These matters are regularly discussed at the staff meetings. The students participate in the Department s strategy work by providing feedback about their studies and the Department s operations during its various stages. 3.2 Core processes Research process At the University of Eastern Finland, the Department of Nursing Science is part of the Faculty of Health Sciences. The Faculty is unique in Finland and, in part, internationally as well. It offers an excellent research environment for the implementation of nursing science research of a high standard. The facility for research in the nursing science field was given recognition in 2008 as one of the University of Kuopio s four high-quality research units ( f a-bc b4bf), and it forms an excellent foundation for the research programme. The Department of Nursing Science s research programme can be found at: ( Nursing science research forms the hub of research at the University of Eastern Finland s Faculty of Health Sciences and for the University itself. Three entities have been specified in the strategy as the 13

14 areas of strength in the University s research activities ( health and wellbeing, forest and the environment, and new technologies and materials. The Faculty of Health Sciences research operations occur mainly in the Health and Well-being field of expertise. The Faculty s research-based areas of emphasis are specified more precisely in the Faculty s strategy: ( b6693b60b911). The Mission of the Research Programme of the Department of Nursing Science is to produce research knowledge (basic / applied) about health promotion practices and their impact in community care and in patient care, and in developing health promotion and health service environments. The two main lines in the Research Programme are 1) Health Promotion in Different Cultures and Contexts and 2) Health Service, Health Education, Clinical Outcomes and Impact of Nursing Care. The research at the Department of Nursing Science focuses on both to develop the knowledge base of nursing science and to apply the knowledge to renew the practices in health care.the priorities in European and global health policies are taken account in Research Programme at the Department of Nursing Science. The research focuses on: the health related questions of individuals, families and communities in different contexts and cultures,basic values and knowledge in nursing and health promotion,the development of health service structures, the impact of nursing and health promotion activities. A special interest is on intervention studies in health promotion and in clinical nursing environment, where working methods and models as well as instruments for assessing nursing sensitive outcomes and quality of care, are tested.the research is carried out in research groups that are multidisciplinary and international. The research projects are internationally networked and are based on both nursing science and multidisciplinary data ( Person(s) in charge of the process(es): The Head of Department and group leader of the research project Quality objectives of process: Research observes a high international standard and is strongly networked both nationally and internationally. The most important actors in the research process and their tasks are presented in Table 1. Research indicators are presented in the research strategy of the Department ( d70cd10424bb). In applying for and administering research funding, we function in compliance with the Faculty of Health Sciences Quality Manual, section Research process. 14

15 New information, innovations, and scientific publications are generated as a result of nursing science research, and the objective is to publish these scientific observations and research findings internationally in a publishing forum that engages in peer evaluation and is of the highest standard possible. Research results when well-substantiated are also published in national publication forums such as textbooks, for example. The Department s publications are logged into the Sole Cris database and, with regard to EVO publications, into the JULKI system as well. Table 1. The most important actors in the research process and their tasks Actor in the research process Head of Department Group leader Post-doctoral researchers Doctoral researchers, thesis researchers Other assisting personnel Administrative Secretary Tasks in the research process responsibility of the Department s research program leads the research project (planning and design, implementation, funding) supervises theses is in charge of reporting the research results research planning and design, implementation, analysis of results and reporting completion of one s own research share assistance to researchers implementation of research project financial management Research ethics-based principles are observed in research operations at the Department of Nursing Science. The University of Eastern Finland is committed to observing the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity ( respective to Good scientific practice and handling its infractions as well as Ethical principles in research fields comprised within the human sciences and The ethical principles of research in the Arts, Social Sciences and Behavioural Sciences in addition to Proposal for the arrangement of ethical pre-assessment ( The ecological perspective in sustained development is taken into consideration in the research functions at the Department of Nursing Science. The researchers avoid unnecessary printing and use, whenever possible, the electronic versions of books and scientific articles as scientific literature sources, for example. In addition, the object is to implement research surveys in electronic format. The economic perspective behind sustainable development emerges in the maintenance of the Department s equipment stock: users are oriented in the use of devices by the persons in charge and the equipment is kept in good condition. The social aspect of sustainable development is realized via 15

16 work safety methods, for instance. The Faculty s researchers are fully equal members of the international scientific community Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science Doctoral education in nursing science is arranged within the framework of the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science provided by the Faculty of Health Sciences. The purpose of the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science provided by the University of Eastern Finland is to train excellent, internationally oriented researchers and experts with doctoral training for a variety of national and international duties. Another aim is to strengthen multidisciplinary research. The doctoral programme works in close cooperation with the Finnish Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science (a network of five universities University of Eastern Finland, University of Oulu, University of Tampere, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi). Doctoral training involves an opportunity for diverse cooperation in multidisciplinary doctoral programmes. Students can also benefit from training and education provided by international networks and other opportunities provided by joint doctoral programmes. The following degrees are available in the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science: Licentiate of Science (Health Care), Doctor of Science (Health Care), Licentiate of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy. ( Eligibility for doctoral degree studies and admission criteria The eligibility criteria for doctoral degree studies are described in Chapter 1.4. The skills of eligible applicants to any of the doctoral programmes provided by the Faculty of Health Sciences and their commitment to a successful completion of their doctoral studies are assessed according to the following joint criteria, which constitute the admission criteria to the programme: quality of the research plan: innovativeness of the research topic, feasibility, clarity and implementation methods of the research plan as well as its suitability to the research profile and strategy of the department, school or unit where the research projects to be carried out; scientific and practical relevance of the research topic; evidence of any previous research projects carried out by the applicant, such as working as a researcher or research funding obtained performance in Master s studies or corresponding studies international orientation and language skills required in the studies. In the selection process, the adequacy of supervision and the special expertise required from the supervisor are also taken into consideration as well as whether the planned doctoral studies support the research project and the development of the applicant s knowledge and skill base. Applicants preparedness, motivation and commitment to doctoral studies can also be estimated with interviews. 16

17 How to apply The application procedure for the right to pursue doctoral studies is described in Chapter 1.5. There are two annual deadlines for applications to the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science (31 May and 30 November). Applicants to the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science are expected to prepare a research plan of 5 to 10 pages (including references and annexes) drafted according to the instructions of the Academy of Finland (see In addition, applicants to the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science are required to provide the following: a resource plan: a plan detailing whether the applicant is going to study full-time or work and study at the same time, a realistic progress plan, funding options and an account of how the prospective student intends to use the doctoral degree; an estimate of the applicant s English skills (writing, speaking, listening and reading; the grade of the language studies completed in the Master s degree or another testresult describing the applicant s language skills). Student selection is made on the basis of an assessment by the department and an estimation of the supervisor resources available in the department. The management group of the Doctoral Programme makes their recommendations regarding student selection and, finally, the Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences makes the decision on the selection. For more information on research projects, see the website of the department ( or contact the professors of the department or the responsible professor for the doctoral programme, Katri Vehviläinen-Julkunen (Katri.VehvilainenJulkunen@uef.fi). If necessary, applicants may be invited to be interviewed or video interviewed for the doctoral programme. Requirements for a licentiate/doctorate Studies in the doctoral programme consist of general transferable skills studies and subject-related doctoral studies. Doctoral studies are planned jointly by the student and the supervisors and a personal doctoral study plan is prepared. The time that should be reserved for completing a doctorate is four years of full-time study. The extent of theory studies in the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science is 50 ECTS. This consists of between 10 and 20 ECTS of general transferable skills studies (such as theory and philosophy of science, good academic practice, communication skills, teamwork skills), between 30 and 40 ECTS of studies in the discipline and field of research (such as research methodology, ethical issues in nursing, research of training in the health sector, family nursing science, promotion of health, research of health service systems, research of results) and a research project, which is a doctoral dissertation or a licentiate thesis. General transferable skills studies (from 10 to 20 ECTS). General transferable skills studies include study modules provided by the University of Eastern Finland s Doctoral School. The purpose of the general transferable skills studies provided by the University of Eastern Finland s Doctoral School is that the doctoral student becomes familiar with the general theory and philosophy of science 17

18 adopts good research ethics and learns to know the associated legislation and good academic practice acquires the ability to plan a scientific research project, including problematisation, methods, resources, scheduling, etc. acquires good communication skills in the course of studies and is capable of critical scientific communication, both oral and written, and of explaining his or her field to non-specialist audiences learns management and teamwork skills acquires the basic abilities to provide scientific training to others and work as a specialist in the field acquires the preparedness to work in an international environment. Studies in the discipline and field of research (from 30 to 40 ECTS) Studies in the student s specific field of research and supporting fields should provide the student with as much knowledge on the research topic as possible. The scope of the studies and the emphasis of different elements depend on the theme of the research project and the desired targets of the studies. However, study modules in subject-related doctoral studies must be sufficiently extensive. Studies in the discipline and field of research in the Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science may consist of doctoral study modules provided by the University of Eastern Finland or other universities and research schools. 1. Courses provided by the Finnish Doctoral Programme in Nursing Science (between 6 and 8 courses provided each year) 2. PhD Symposium, 6 ECTS, mandatory for all students of Nursing Science (a new course; responsible person Katri Vehviläinen-Julkunen) 3. Courses provided by the Graduate School of Clinical Research (Kuopio University Hospital and UEF), such as Introductory Course for a Clinical Researcher (5 ECTS). See the Doctoral Curricula in WebOodi. Doctoral studies in the Faculty of Health Sciences may also include studies that do not belong to any of the doctoral study modules. Their scope is determined according to the following general principles: seminars (up to 8 ECTS) scientific conferences in Finland and abroad (up to 8 ECTS) work in research institutes or similar (up to 8 ECTS) scientific articles related to the field of research but not included in the doctoral dissertation (up to 1/10 of the total scope of the degree). The number of credits awarded for each scientific article is based on a statement by the student s main supervisor. book exams (up to 1/5 of the total scope of the degree) studies not included in any other degrees (where applicable) a completed Specialist Degree in Medicine or Specialist Degree in Dentistry (8 ECTS) A doctoral dissertation is also required for a doctoral degree. 18

19 Management group of the doctoral programme Management group: Director of the doctoral programme, Professor Katri Vehviläinen-Julkunen (chair); Professor Hannele Turunen; Professor Anna-Maija Pietilä; Professor Kerttu Tossavainen; Professor Arja Häggman-Laitila; University Researcher Tarja Kvist, Doctoral student Marja Härkänen. Contact person: University Researcher Tarja Kvist, PhD Education process The purpose of the process is to offer education based on research to students of nursing science. The education activates students, and pedagogically versatile teaching methods and learning environments are used in education. Person(s) in charge of the process(es): Head of Department Quality objectives of the process: The objective of the educational process is to produce specialists and professionals for the fields central to public health care and well-being Process of basic degree education Purpose of process: the purpose is to educate professionals of nursing science as well as specialists for public health care research, planning, teaching and managerial tasks ( Person(s) in charge of the process(es): Head of Department, person in charge of nursing science as an academic subject and the professors in the various fields of education (management of nursing science, preventive nursing science, teacher training in the health sciences; Appendix 2). Quality objectives of the process: The objective is to produce professionals and specialists whose know-how and skills correspond to the requirements of working life. The objective of the process is that the education is also effective, is in line with degree targets, and observes schedules as well as being predictable and well-organized. The most important actors in basic degree education along with their tasks have been collated in Table 2. 19

20 Table 2. The most important actors in the basic degree education process and their tasks Most important actors connected with the basic degree education process Faculty Council Dean Study Administration Manager Basic degree education process tasks approves the yearly curricula accepts students into the Faculty responsible for the process of basic degree education Basic Education Committee Head of Department Person in charge of the academic subject Manager of Courses prepares proposals as development and support strategies for basic education at the Faculty. evaluates, develops and coordinates the Faculty s educational profile and educational provision. assesses and develops the Faculty s student recruiting and student selection. assesses, plans and develops the Faculty s quality system of basic education as well as the Faculty s administration of studies connected with internal basic education. monitors and assesses the Faculty s student guidance system and students well-being. prepares instructions and policies connected with the Faculty s basic education. prepares statements concerning the Faculty s basic education as well as other joint matters connected with basic education. performs other tasks assigned to the Committee by the Faculty responsible for education and its development as the director of his/her staff as well as the allocator of resources manages the development of nursing science education manages curricular planning work at the Department of Nursing Science plans course teaching and prepares course descriptions Teachers implement teaching that is pedagogically of high quality University teacher, HOPS-supervisor Department of Nursing Science s Education Development and Assessment Committee Students provides special supervision in small groups, participates in teaching and is in charge of HOPS guidance plan and develop the Department s education participate in teaching in order to achieve the knowledge- and skill-based readiness entered as the objective of the individual courses and degree programmes 20