Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 48 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting September 2027
- Apply before Feb 2027
Calls for applications are open from mid-January to mid-February; the doctoral programme and employment period begin on 1 September of the year.
Language
English
Credits
240 ECTS
Delivered
On Campus
Campus Location
- Stockholm, Sweden
Disciplines
Philosophy
Overview
This Critical and Cultural Theory programme offered by Södertörn University focuses on the critical study of cultural forms and practices, including art, literature, philosophy, media, and social and political activities. It supports research into how culture reflects and shapes societal understanding, emphasising the role of the humanities in examining human experience and social structures.
Key Facts
The academic environment is multidisciplinary, integrating subjects such as aesthetics, philosophy, gender studies, art history, comparative literature, media and communication studies, and the theory of practical knowledge. Training is grounded in shared theoretical approaches including critical theory, continental philosophy, hermeneutics, and postcolonial and gender studies, enabling the analysis of cultural phenomena and professional practices through independent research.
Programme Structure
Curriculum:
- Theory of Practical Knowledge
- Aesthetics
- Philosophy
- Gender Studies
- Art History
- Comparative Literature
- Media and Communication Studies
- Critical Theory
Admission requirements
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.
Other requirements
General requirements
- Master's degree or 240 ECTS credits including 60 at second-cycle level, or equivalent knowledge required
- Exemptions from general requirements may be granted in special cases
- At least 60 ECTS credits in Theory of Practical Knowledge at second-cycle level required
- Completion of an individually written thesis of at least 15 ECTS required
- At least three years of relevant professional work experience (minimum half-time) required
- Ability to understand and work in English required
Fees and funding
Tuition Fees
There are no tuition fees for doctoral students.
Living costs
Stockholm, Sweden: 1,383-2,467 AUD / month. The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Scholarships: Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Critical and Cultural Theory.

