The PhD program in Child and Youth Participation and Competence Development is an interdisciplinary doctoral degree program. The aim of the program is to train researchers who want to build and disseminate knowledge about the participation and competence development of children and youth as they encounter a complex society.

The doctoral program contributes to basic and applied research in the area of child and youth participation and competence development. Such research also promotes research-based knowledge relevant for professions working with children and youth. In that sense, the program also contributes to research that is professionally relevant, i.e., research that has direct or indirect relevance for professions that in various ways seek to facilitate and promote child and youth participation and competence development in different arenas. For more about child and youth participation and competence development as a field of study, please see the research program developed by the Research Centre for Child and Youth Competence development.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the PhD program, students will have

1. mastered general scientific theory and methodology, and gained insight into central discussions within the philosophy of science.
2. acquired a platform for insight into and critical reflection about various understandings of child and youth participation and competence development as conveyed in theoretical works, empirical research, and professional practices. They will also have gained knowledge about different societal and professional initiatives in this area.
3. knowledge of key research issues in the core area of child and youth participation and competence development, and in their own area of specialization.
4. gained knowledge that provides the skills needed to teach and supervise within the field of child and youth participation and competence development, and in their own area of specialization.
5. gained knowledge and training enabling them to conduct and disseminate research at an international level.

The PhD program is a three-year program and consists of:

• An approved course component
• An independent research project completed with guidance from the candidate’s supervisor, and, if applicable, other researchers
• The completion of a written PhD-thesis based on the research project
• Participation in national and international research communities
• Presentations and dissemination related to the PhD thesis