University of Tromsø

What you'll study

The programme centres on an original doctoral research project leading to a defended doctoral thesis. Candidates follow a combination of supervised independent research and structured coursework designed to strengthen methodological and theoretical competences. Typical taught components include advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods, research ethics and integrity, science communication, and courses tailored to the candidate's disciplinary focus (for example political science, sociology, anthropology, human geography, welfare studies, Indigenous/Sámi studies or environmental governance).

PhD candidates normally take a set number of course credits during their candidature, participate in departmental and cross‑faculty seminars, present work at research seminars and international conferences, and contribute to teaching and supervision as part of their training. The programme emphasises interdisciplinary approaches and fieldwork where relevant, drawing on the university's Arctic context for projects concerned with rural communities, natural resource management, Indigenous rights, climate impacts and regional governance.

Entry requirements

Applicants must normally hold a master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant social science discipline with documented academic performance. Admission requires a clearly formulated research proposal, identification of at least one potential supervisor at the department, and evidence of research training and methodological competence appropriate to the project. Proficiency in English is required for non‑native speakers, and knowledge of Norwegian may be necessary for projects that involve local fieldwork or teaching duties; specific language expectations are set by the hosting department.

Admission decisions are made by the faculty's PhD admissions committee and may require external academic assessment. Funding arrangements vary: many PhD candidates are admitted as employed research fellows on funded projects or hold externally financed scholarships; applicants should check the available positions and funding opportunities associated with their proposed project.

Career prospects

Graduates from the PhD in Social Science pursue a wide range of careers. Common pathways include academic positions (postdoctoral roles and university teaching and research), roles in national and local public administration, policy analysis and advisory positions, work with national and international research institutes, and employment in NGOs and think tanks. The skills developed during the programme — advanced research design, data analysis, project management, and dissemination — are also valued in consultancy, industry research units and multinational organisations dealing with social, environmental and resource governance.

Why study at University of Tromsø

The University of Tromsø (UiT) offers a distinctive research environment shaped by its Arctic location and strong expertise in topics such as Indigenous and Sámi studies, fisheries and marine governance, climate change impacts on societies, rural development and welfare. The university hosts active interdisciplinary research groups and doctoral programmes that provide access to fieldwork opportunities across northern Norway and collaboration with national and international partners.

PhD candidates at UiT benefit from structured doctoral training, dedicated supervisory teams, access to specialised laboratories and data infrastructures, and an engaged academic community. The university's networks with public agencies, local communities and research centres make it particularly suitable for projects that combine theoretical rigour with applied, regionally grounded research.