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PhD War Studies 2026 — Funding

The Swedish Defence University offers a PhD in War Studies, focusing on war and the use of force. The programme is a four-year, full-time study, providing broad knowledge and a systematic understanding of the research area.

location: Stockholm, Sweden
source-url: https://www.fhs.se/en/swedish-defence-university/education/doctoral-studies.html
apply-url: https://www.fhs.se/sc/profile-page.html?identity=400.75f45f0c18b2ce65191929

The Swedish Defence University is offering a PhD programme in War Studies, a social science discipline that examines war and the use of force. The programme consists of four years of full-time studies, corresponding to 240 higher education credits. The university has degree-awarding powers to issue doctoral degrees in the field of defence, crisis management, and security.

Overview

The PhD programme in War Studies is a social science whose central object of study is war and the use of force.

  • Four years of full-time studies, corresponding to 240 higher education credits
  • Combination of courses and an independent research project
  • Results in a doctoral dissertation, or a licentiate thesis if finished after two years
  • Covers both general theoretical and knowledge-based dimension, as well as practical and applied dimension
  • Linked primarily to the education of officers

Eligibility

The programme is open to individuals interested in immersing themselves in issues related to defence, crisis management, and security.

  • Curiosity and interest in defence, crisis management, and security

Benefits

  • Broad knowledge and a systematic understanding of the research area
  • Deep specialist knowledge
  • Knowledge of scientific method
  • Ability for analysis, synthesis and critical review
  • Ability to conduct research independently and creatively

How to Apply

To apply for the PhD programme in War Studies, visit the Swedish Defence University's website.

  • Read more about the graduate programmes in war studies
  • Check the eligibility criteria
  • Submit an application through the university's website

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the PhD programme in War Studies?

The PhD programme in War Studies is a four-year, full-time programme.

What is the focus of the PhD programme in War Studies?

The PhD programme in War Studies focuses on war and the use of force, covering both general theoretical and knowledge-based dimension, as well as practical and applied dimension.

What kind of knowledge and skills will I acquire through the PhD programme in War Studies?

Through the PhD programme in War Studies, you will acquire broad knowledge and a systematic understanding of the research area, deep specialist knowledge, knowledge of scientific method, and the ability for analysis, synthesis and critical review.

Is the PhD programme in War Studies available part-time?

The PhD programme in War Studies is a full-time programme, but it is possible to finish after two years with a licentiate thesis.

What kind of career opportunities are available after completing the PhD programme in War Studies?

After completing the PhD programme in War Studies, you can pursue a career in research, education, or in the civilian sector and the military, where highly educated individuals with knowledge of societal security are in demand.

What is the language of instruction for the PhD programme in War Studies?

The language of instruction for the PhD programme in War Studies is not specified, but it is recommended to check with the university for more information.