Education Sciences (joint) EN

The Joint Doctoral Study programme (JDSP) “Education Sciences” students acquire general study courses at the University of Latvia, as well as choose a specialization module according to their scientific interests: 

• Module 1: Didactics of study subjects (implemented by UL and DU); 

• Module 2: Inclusive education and technology integration in school, university and adult education (implemented by UL); 

• Module 3: Education for sustainable development at school and university (implemented by DU); 

• Module 4: Special and social pedagogy (implemented by RTA); 

• Module 5: Preschool and primary school pedagogy (implemented by RTU Liepaja). 

The programme offers rigorous research training and transversal competencies through structured coursework, field-specific doctoral examinations (in the discipline, subdiscipline, and a foreign language), and continuous engagement in scientific research. Throughout the studies, doctoral candidates carry out original research in their chosen topic, disseminate results in peer-reviewed publications, participate in international conferences, undertake mobility visits, and contribute to academic activities. The programme concludes with the completion and public defence of the doctoral thesis, demonstrating readiness for independent research work. 

Additional information and the study plan.

JDSP “Education Sciences” provides an opportunity to obtain an internationally recognized academic higher education and scientific qualification based on individual scientific research by conducting a fundamental and applied research in educational sciences to acquire competencies required in the labour market at the International Standard Classification of Education (ISCED) Level 8 and employment opportunities according to the Classification of Occupations of the Republic of Latvia Group 1 (professions whose main tasks are related to the development and formulation of state policy, development of external regulatory enactments, organization of the implementation of state and enterprise policy and its implementation measures) and Group 2 (professions whose main tasks are related to work that requires a high level of theoretical and professional knowledge and the ability to solve theoretical problems at all levels of education, prepares drafts of regulatory enactments and methodological documents, participates in the development of the field of educational science, planning the necessary resources, performs practical work in creating new material and intellectual values).

The admission conditions for the joint doctoral study programme Educational Science are in line with the goals and objectives of this study programme. The admission requirements are in line with the set outcomes of the study programme. The admission of students takes place in accordance with a previously approved procedure and criteria, which are published on the websites of the University of Latvia and partner universities. Admission takes place at all universities participating in the programme in accordance with the connection of the scientific interests of doctoral students with the study modules implemented by the universities. 

Previous academic education: a second-cycle higher education (master's degree) in education, pedagogy or psychology; or a second-cycle higher education (master's degree) in the humanities, social sciences, arts, engineering, medicine, sports or natural sciences (or equivalent higher education) and at least two years of pedagogical work experience at an educational institution. 

Additional requirements: doctoral thesis proposal (.doc.x) agreed with a potential scientific supervisor, proof of English language proficiency at least at B2 level, CV, motivation letter, proof of scientific research activities and other documents. More information about the documents to be submitted.

Required English language proficiency (except if previous education is in English), attested by following tests:

LanguageCert International ESOL at least Level Communicator B2 (Written and Spoken exams);
TOEFL IBT – at least score 72
TOEFL Essential – at least 8 points
IELTS – at least score 6.00
PTE General – at least level B2
FCE – at least level B
CPE – Proficiency/C2 Proficiency: any level
CAE – C1 Advanced: any level

Entrance examination: motivation assessment interview with Doctoral School staff, as well as oral presentation (5-10 minutes) of the doctoral thesis proposal and planned research at the Doctoral Council. The applicants' documents and presentation will be evaluated in accordance with the admission criteria of the University of Latvia. During the entrance interviews, the previous education and professional experience of potential students is acknowledged and considered. 

doktorantura@lu.lv