ABSTRACT
An analysis of a two-day symposium about the current situation and future developments of doctoral studies at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich) is presented. The key issues surrounding the doctorate were addressed in keynote presentations and discussed in workshops involving all stakeholders (ca. 400 participants). The corresponding data showed that, in addition to formal and administrative aspects, cultural and psychological factors also play a vital role in the successful completion of a doctorate. Following a broad internal consultation, ETH Zurich is implementing a range of measures to promote both the doctorate and the corresponding organisational culture.
