Ladoscholar: IPPE stands for the International Doctoral Programme in Epidemiology and Public Health, run by the Health Sciences Unit at Tampere University in Finland. It’s a doctoral training programme for highly qualified researchers and public health personnel worldwide who aim for a PhD in public health sciences, including epidemiology and other health science disciplines.
What makes it distinctive is its structure. You get intensive training in epidemiology and biostatistics, qualitative and mixed methods, and systematic reviews, along with research seminars and individual supervision.
The cost picture is mixed. Tampere University currently charges no tuition or course fees for doctoral students accepted into IPPE. But there’s no stipend, so living costs are yours to cover.
It also has an unusual format. You complete classroom studies in Finland during your first year, then can work on your PhD project in Finland or abroad. That flexibility suits people who plan to return to jobs or research sites in their home country.
Eligibility
The 2027 admission criteria are now opened.
- Target applicants: Highly qualified researchers and public health personnel who want a PhD in public health sciences.
- Research plan matters: Priority goes to applicants whose research plan can serve as research material for the doctoral degree.
- No supervisor needed in advance: You don’t need a supervisor before applying. If selected, one is assigned to you. This is different from many doctoral programmes.
- Residence: You must live in Tampere from August to May to complete coursework.
- Language: The programme has a language requirements
- Prior degree: A relevant master’s degree or equivalent is typically expected for doctoral study
How to Apply
1. You can read the admission requirements on Studyinfo.fi.
2. Draft a strong research plan.
3. Prepare your funding plan. You’ll need to show you can support yourself.
4. Apply
How to stand out:
- Choose a project that fits epidemiology or public health and is realistic to complete.
- Link your research question to a real health problem, ideally in a setting you can access.
- Show methods you can actually carry out, and explain why they fit.
- Be clear about your funding plan. Reviewers want to know you can finish.
Key Dates
- 2 November 2026: Application period opens.
- 2 December 2026 : Application deadline.
- August 2027: Programme begins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Treating it as a scholarship. IPPE doesn’t fund you, only the tuition is free. Plan your finances before you apply.
- Submitting a vague research plan.
- Waiting to find a supervisor. You don’t need one before applying, so don’t let that hold you back.
- Applying at the deadline. Time zones can catch you out.
Application Link
Who This Is Best For: Public health researchers, epidemiologists, clinicians and health professionals who already have a research idea and a way to cover their own living costs while studying in Finland. Not for anyone who needs a funded PhD position with a salary or stipend.
