Study programme description for students

Technology and Natural Science - PhD programme

Facts

Studyprogram code D-TEKNAT

Credits (ECTS) 180

Level Doctoral degree with nom length of study

Leads to degree Philosophiae Doctor

Full-/Part-time Full-time

Duration 6 semesters

Undergraduate No

Language of instruction English

PhD programme in Science and Technology

Study points (ECTS): 180
Faculty: Faculty of Science and Technology

Degree

PhD

Study specialisations

  • PhD in Information technology, Mathematics and Physics
  • PhD in Energy Engineering and Geoscience
  • PhD in Offshore Technology, Mechanical and Structural Engineering
  • PhD in Chemistry and Biological Science
  • PhD in Risk Management and Societal Safety

Tuition Language

English

Admissions requirements

To be admitted to the Doctoral programme in Science and Technology - the applicant must normally have minimum a five-year master's degree in technology or mathematical-scientific subjects (the degree specifics and other requirements are stated in the individual vacancy advertisements in “JobbNorge”). The applicant must have a strong academic background with both the master’s thesis grade and the weighted grade average of the master’s degree courses being individually equivalent to or better than a grade B.

As the language of instruction is English, applicants must document that they fulfil the listed English language requirements specified in the advertisement.

Programme content, structure and composition

For the doctoral programme at the Faculty of Science and Technology, the following generic educational part is required as minimum:

  • Program courses (10 ECTS)
  • Study courses (10 ECTS)
  • Project course (10 ECTS)
  • Ph.D project (150 ECTS)

Programme courses

Compulsory courses (for all study specialisations)

TN900 Theory of science and ethics (5 ECTS)

TN910 Innovation in research projects (5 ECTS)

Study courses

Study courses offered by the various departments at the faculty are found below. Relevant courses at PhD-level from other institutions, researcher schools etc., may also be approved upon application.

Project courses

Project courses offered by the various departments at the faculty are found below. Relevant courses at PhD-level from other institutions, researcher schools etc., may also be approved upon application.

Learning outcome

Programme learning outcomes:

Knowledge:

The candidate

K1 is at the forefront of knowledge within the relevant study specialization and has mastered the scientific theory, research questions and methods relating to the relevant subject area

K2 is at the forefront of knowledge within a chosen specialist discipline within the field

K3 can evaluate the suitability and application of different methods and processes in research and scholarly development projects

K4 can contribute to the development of new knowledge and theories, methods, interpretations, and forms of documentation in the field

Skills:

The candidate

S1 can formulate problems, plan, and carry out research and scholarly development work

S2 can carry out research and scholarly development work of high international standard

S3 can handle complex academic issues and challenge established knowledge and practices in the field of the relevant study specialization

General competencies:

The candidate

G1 can identify relevant ethical issues and practice her or his research with scholarly integrity according to established standards and practice

G2 can manage complex interdisciplinary assignments and projects

G3 can communicate research and development work through recognized Norwegian and international channels

G4 can participate in debates in the field in international forums

G5 can assess the need for, initiate and practice innovation

Career prospects

Qualifications and career opportunities

The rigerous journey of pursuing a PhD equips individuals with a unique set of qualifications that extend far beyond academia. With their specialized knowledge and expertise, PhD holders possess the ability to make a significant impact in various sectors in the society. Qualifications acquired through this degree span from expertise in research and analysis, problem solving and critical thinking, to potential strong communication, collaboration and teamwork skills. In finishing a PhD, one also acquires adaptability and resilience skills, which are well-suited for dynamic work settings. By obtaining a PhD, the academic research path opens for postdoc, researcher and faculty-positions at universities and research institutions. PhDs are also in demand across various high-level industries, and in some areas of the public sector, for research and development positions – a PhD is not just an academic milestone – it’s a gateway to diverse and fulfilling career paths.

Course assessment

The schemes for quality assurance and evaluation of studies are stipulated in the Quality System for Education.

Studyplan with courses

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Student exchange

Research stay abroad

The candidate can spend three months of study time at a recognised foreign educational or research institution where it is possible to work with the research question in the thesis. A stay at an equivalent Norwegian educational or research institution may replace a research stay abroad if this is deemed to be academically relevant.

Contact information

Contact

phdtn@uis.no