PhD Programme in Social Sciences at Oslo Metropolitan University Oslo Metropolitan University in Norway

The PhD Programme in Social Sciences at Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet) offers a comprehensive, research-oriented doctoral education designed for candidates interested in advancing knowledge in social sciences and related fields. The programme is structured as a full-time, 180 ECTS credit course of study, typically completed in three years (or four years with mandatory duties). Upon successful completion, graduates are awarded the degree of PhD in Social Sciences, with their chosen specialization indicated on their transcript and diploma.

The programme features four specializations, each anchored in one of the faculty’s departments: Business Administration, Innovation and Governance (BIG); Journalism and Media Studies (JMF); Information, Library and Archival Studies (IBA); and Social Work and Social Policy (SASP). All PhD candidates must affiliate with one of these specializations, which reflect the diverse research strengths of OsloMet’s Faculty of Social Sciences.

The curriculum consists of a 30 ECTS educational component and a 150 ECTS research component (doctoral thesis). The educational component includes obligatory courses in philosophy of science and research ethics, specialization-specific theory courses, methods training, and electives. Candidates may take approved courses at OsloMet or other universities, provided they involve a written assessment. The research component centers on an independent doctoral thesis, developed in collaboration with assigned supervisors and research groups.

Admission to the programme is not through direct application; instead, candidates must first secure funding for at least three years, either by obtaining a research fellow position at a Norwegian institution or through external funding organizations. Once funding is secured, applicants submit a comprehensive application including a project description, progress plan, documentation of educational background, training plan, funding plan, and a proposal for academic supervisors. The application is assessed holistically, considering the quality and relevance of the project, academic qualifications, and funding arrangements. The Research Education Board (DGU) at the Faculty of Social Sciences makes final admission decisions and assigns supervisors upon acceptance.

Entry requirements include a master’s degree of 120 ECTS in social sciences, humanities, or relevant fields, with an independent thesis of at least 30 ECTS. International degrees may have the thesis requirement waived if they qualify for PhD admission in their country of origin. A 90 ECTS master’s degree may be considered if it includes a thesis and additional qualifications such as advanced methodological coursework, a peer-reviewed publication, or relevant research experience. Applicants must generally have a grade of B or better on both the thesis and the overall master’s degree; exceptions may be made for candidates with a grade of C if supported by significant research experience or publications.

All candidates participate in research groups, either at OsloMet or their home institution if externally funded. The programme encourages interdisciplinary research and international collaboration. Single PhD courses are available to enrolled PhD candidates, with separate application procedures for internal and external candidates.

For more information and to access the application portal, visit the official programme page: https://www.oslomet.no/en/study/sam/phd-sam/social-sciences.