Research programmes at Karlstad University

Research programmes at Karlstad University are designed for those who want to achieve expertise in an area of specialisation. Students advance their knowledge in a subject area and participate actively in research projects, developing research skills and ability to work independently and systematically.

Doctoral studies qualify for university teaching and research and are an excellent platform for a private and public sector career. Some of our research students are industrial doctoral students, which indicate cooperation between industry, public agencies and organisations.

Structure of programmes

Doctoral studies are financed for four years full-time but since doctoral students also teach undergraduate students or partake in departmental administrative duties 20 % of the time, they are normally employed for five years.  For most of the time they work on their own respective research project, do coursework and participate in seminars.

The independent thesis project is supervised by a main and co-supervisor. Students admitted to the doctoral programme  draw up an individual plan, specifying the content and time line of the education, together with the main supervisor.   

The programme is completed when the thesis is discussed and defended publicly and approved by an examining committee. Providing that all programme requirements have been completed, the candidate will be awarded the Degree and title of Doctor of Philosophy. Students may also choose to complete the programme after two years and earn a Degree of Licentiate.