Conferment of doctoral degrees

The ceremonial conferment of doctoral degrees is the highest and most prestigious academic celebration and a tradition that spans several centuries. “Promootio”, the Finnish word for the conferment, comes from the Latin verb “promovere”, which means promotion, advancement, and elevation.

The purpose of the conferment ceremony is to highlight the value of and respect for research and education. It is also a unique way to celebrate academic achievements. The conferment celebrations consist of several events that will extend across three days.

At the conferment ceremony, the doctors are presented with a doctoral hat as a symbol of academic freedom and – except for Doctors of Science in Technology or Architecture – the doctoral sword. The promovendi purchase their hats and swords by themselves. Please follow the instructions and don't hesitate to ask the conferment committee for advice before making any purchases.

Tampere University’s next conferment of doctoral degrees will take place on 6–8 June 2025. Please join our alumni network to keep posted!

Go back to the atmosphere of the conferment of doctoral degrees 2022 by watching the video: