Research proposal instructions

A working title of the research projectShort description of the research topic or proposed research. Prepare a short description, about 200 words, of your proposed research. This description will be used by committees and boards which are involved in doctoral studies within the University of Iceland.Preliminary research proposal.The research proposal can be either in English or Icelandic. About 1,800-2,200 words.The research proposal should contain:IntroductionState your research problem/questionBriefly illustrate the purpose and scientific value of your proposed projectPresent your rationale in choosing your particular research problem/question, and demonstrate how it relates to your previous experience and/or your future plansState of the art (Literature review)Define your theoretical approach and key concepts, as neededBriefly outline the outcome of previous related research by others – i.e. what do you already know?Lines of inquiry – i.e. what do you want to find out?Methods and methodologyHow will you design your research and what methodology do you plan on using?Data collection – how or where will you collect data, and what are your subjects or who are your participants?Address possible ethical concernsThis is a preliminary study plan – upon acceptance, you will begin work on your final study plan, in cooperation with your advisor.

Resume, professional activity and statement of purpose, instructions

Resume (CV)An overview of your study and work experience. List institution, field of study, degree earned/credits or courses taken and year completed for your education, and institution, position held, and period for each workplace. List each in chronological order, newest item first.Include a detailed list of all published works such as books, articles, essays, and reports. Also include copies of/extracts from significant works, i.e. those that best demonstrate your proficiency and research experience in the field.Professional activityIn 300 – 400 words, describe your past research experience and other professional activity in your chosen field.Statement of purposePrepare a statement in which you discuss the importance you believe participation in the doctoral programme at the School of Education will have for you. Why are you applying to this programme?

Doctoral Studies Handbook

Doctoral Studies Handbook 2025 for PhD students in Educational Sciences.

Where does the programme belong?

Faculty of Education and DiversityFaculty of Education and PedagogyFaculty of Health Promotion, Sport and Leisure StudiesFaculty of Subject Teacher EducationSchool of Education

Education, Ph.D.

Language skills

required

Programme length

Four years - 210 ECTS

Study mode

Face-to-face learning

Application status

International students:

Students with Icelandic or Nordic citizenship:

Applicants shall have completed a Master’s degree of at least 120 ECTS credits, or an equivalent qualification, from a recognised university. As a general rule, applicants shall have completed a Master’s thesis worth 30 ECTS credits. Applicants’ academic performance and professional experience shall be taken into account when assessing applications.

The doctoral programme at the School of Education is based on advanced courses in research methodology, other courses in the student’s field of study, active participation in the academic community both in Iceland and internationally, and work on a doctoral project.

Students are required to complete 30 ECTS credits of coursework, and the programme is generally delivered through flexible blended learning. Students also undertake independent research and thesis writing under supervision. The doctoral thesis is worth 180 ECTS credits.

Programme structure

Programme in Course Catalogue

Admission requirements

Programme requirements

Where does the programme belong?

Programme structure

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