Umeå University

Overview

The PhD in Educational Work at Umeå University is designed to foster advanced research in teaching, learning, and educational practices, with a particular focus on mathematics, science, and technology education. This programme enables students to develop sophisticated research capabilities while contributing to the enhancement of educational outcomes across various learning environments, including schools and early childhood education settings.

• Level: PhD (third-cycle)
• Focus areas: educational practice, learning processes, knowledge formation, teaching methods, learning environments, and professional development
• Special emphasis: mathematics, science, and technology education
• Credits: doctoral studies are structured as a third-cycle programme; credit requirements may vary based on individual study plans
• Language of instruction: English (confirmation required for specific admission tracks)
• Tuition fees: may apply depending on fee status; check Umeå University for the latest information
• Application: apply via Umeå University’s admissions portal
• Start dates: typically aligned with the university’s doctoral intake periods; confirm current dates

What You'll Study

The doctoral programme is organized around an individual study plan that combines research work, supervision, and doctoral-level coursework. The specific courses you undertake will depend on your research interests and departmental requirements.

Core Doctoral Training Components

• Research methods and academic skills: qualitative and/or quantitative approaches, research design, academic writing, and scholarly communication.
• Educational theory and learning research: exploring learning processes, knowledge formation, and effective teaching and learning strategies in educational contexts.
• Subject didactics focus: investigating research perspectives specifically related to mathematics, science, and technology education.
• Learning environments and professional development: examining how different educational contexts influence teaching practices and learning outcomes, including teacher professional development.
• Ethics and research integrity: understanding the principles of responsible research practice and the ethical management of data and participants.

Doctoral Thesis Requirement

• Thesis: completion of a doctoral thesis, which may be submitted as a monograph or a collection of articles with a comprehensive summary, in accordance with programme regulations.
• Supervision: students are paired with supervisors and follow an individual study plan that includes milestones for coursework and thesis development.
• Seminars and research community: active participation in departmental seminars, research groups, and academic discussions is expected.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the PhD in Educational Work, applicants must meet the programme's general eligibility criteria. There are no specific GRE or GMAT requirements for this programme.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Educational Work can pursue a range of career opportunities in academia, research institutions, educational consultancy, and policy-making organizations. The advanced skills acquired during the programme prepare students to lead initiatives aimed at improving teaching and learning in various educational settings.