PhD studies in languages and literature
PhD studies will not only make you a leading expert in a particular field, but you will also learn to plan, think critically and take responsibility. You will acquire the breadth of knowledge and the skills that go with the subject in general. PhD studies involve working on a research project independently under supervision. You will both use and improve your practical and theoretical skills. You will be ready for complex and advanced work within trade and industry, the public sector, colleges and universities.
Apply for a PhD Position
The Faculty of Languages offers PhD studies within 15 disciplines. The departments within the faculty collaborate to offer our PhD students a creative educational environment characterised by scientific depth, interdisciplinary breadth and excellent quality.
The programme
A PhD degree comprises four years of full-time study; however, after two years students can graduate with a licentiate degree. The first terms of the programme consist mainly of courses, and during the latter terms, the emphasis is on research. In addition, many doctoral students work in teaching or administration, or both. In those cases, the programme is five years long.
PhD degree
PhD studies lead to the degree of doctor of philosophy (PhD) or licentiate of philosophy. If you have taken the licentiate degree, you may apply to continue studying for the PhD degree. The PhD degree may be taken without first taking the licentiate degree.
The award of a licentiate degree requires at least 120 ECTS credits, which includes an approved scholarly work of at least 60 ECTS credits. The award of a PhD degree requires at least 240 ECTS credits, including an approved doctoral thesis of at least 120 ECTS credits.
After your degree
As a PhD or licentiate, you will be expected to be capable of independent and critical thinking, possess a good knowledge of your subject, have methodological academic skills, the ability to identify interesting and researchable issues, educational skills and the ability to express yourself well in both speech and writing. These are sought-after skills in many occupations.
Most students who complete their PhD degree at Uppsala continue to work in the world of education as researchers or teachers. Other possible career paths are within museums, archives, libraries, mass media, publishing or other undertakings and organisations.
Contact
If you have any queries about PhD studies, you should first contact the director of studies for third-cycle programmes at the relevant department.