Introduction to doctoral studies at KTH
You must apply for a vacant doctoral position to join KTH for doctoral studies. Once admitted, you will take courses within a doctoral programme and work on a research project under the supervision of an experienced researcher. Doctoral students are usually employed and earn a monthly salary. As Sweden's leading technical university, we provide excellent conditions for our 2,000 doctoral students.
Doctoral education
At KTH, doctoral studies are organised into programmes that provide a natural platform for collaboration with other doctoral students in the same field and an opportunity to forge valuable contacts that will enrich your future career.
Study plan and supervision
You will be appointed at least two supervisors, of which one is your main supervisor. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that your research project and coursework proceed at an appropriate pace. You will set up an individual study plan with your supervisors summarising how your education will be organised, which courses you will take, your tutorial, and other commitments. The study plan ensures that your studies are personalised for your interests and experience. It is reviewed annually and determines the requirements you must fulfil to graduate. To succeed, you must be goal-oriented and take responsibility for your work, as your development will go hand in hand with the progression of your research project and coursework.
Examination and degree
Doctoral studies at KTH can lead to a Doctor of Philosophy (four years of full-time study) or a Licentiate of Engineering (possible intermediate degree after two years of full-time study). A doctoral degree requires you to complete 240 credits in one of the doctoral subjects, including at least 60 credits worth of courses and a scientific doctoral thesis (dissertation) worth at least 120 credits. A licentiate degree requires you to complete 120 credits in one of the doctoral subjects, including at least 30 credits worth of courses and a scientific paper worth at least 60 credits.
Students accepted to studies leading to a doctoral degree may take a licentiate degree as an intermediate stage in their studies. Students accepted to studies leading to a licentiate degree who subsequently wish to pursue studies leading to a doctoral degree must submit a new application and are not guaranteed admission.
Employment at KTH
Most doctoral students at KTH are salaried employees. In addition to your courses and research project, you will spend up to 20 per cent of your time working for your department in education, research and administration. This work is planned by the head of your department plans in consultation with you and your supervisor.
Salary
Doctoral student salaries are based on a salary agreement . They currently start at SEK 33,000 per month at the beginning of employment and can reach up to SEK 37,100.
Benefits
Working and paying taxes in Sweden provides access to employment-based benefits within the Swedish social security system, including sickness benefits and parental leave insurance. As an employee of KTH, you will also enjoy benefits such as occupational pension, subsidised preventive healthcare and parental compensation.
Contract
The first employment contract covers a maximum period of one year. After that, we can renew the contract for up to two years at a time. The total employment time should not exceed four years of full-time studies. If your studies end with a licentiate degree, the total employment time should not exceed two years of full-time studies. The total employment time may be extended if a doctoral student is absent due to illness, parental leave or other legitimate reasons.
Relocation services
KTH is located in Stockholm, a city rich in history, culture, business and innovation. Our Relocation Services can help you settle in if you relocate for doctoral studies.
Student influence
At KTH, the students actively shape the education and study environment, with representation on all boards and committees deciding on doctoral education. The student union, THS , has a PhD chapter dedicated to continuously improving the quality of doctoral education and doctoral students working conditions.
