About doctoral studies
Doctoral studies, or PhD studies, are suitable for those wanting to acquire cutting-edge competence within a particular area and wanting to make a professional career within industry or the public sector or in research.
PhD´s are the most advanced academic qualifications awarded in Sweden. Today there are 26 doctoral programmes at Karlstad University and approximately 270 PhD candidates are enrolled at the University.
Our doctoral programmes conclude with the award of a licentiate degree or a PhD. The programmes normally encompass four years in which a significant part of the time is devoted to a major individual research project. In addition successful completion of courses and participation in seminars is required. Most of the doctoral students also teach on the basic and/or advanced levels. If a person chooses to study for two years, and not for four, the option exists to complete a licentiate degree.
Licentiate Degree (licentiatexamen):
Licentiate degrees are awarded for studies totalling 120 ECTS credits - two years´ full-time studies. This degree certificate can only be obtained by a student who holds a degree at the advanced level or at least four years’ full-time study with at least one year at the advanced level or for equivalent foreign qualifications.
Doctoral Degree (doktorsexamen):
Doctoral degrees are awarded for studies totalling 240 ECTS credits - four years´ full-time studies. This degree certificate can only be obtained by a student who holds a degree at the advanced level or at least four years’ full-time study with at least one year at the advanced level or for equivalent foreign qualifications.