International students interested in security studies, military strategy, and conflict research can now apply for fully funded doctoral positions in Sweden. The Swedish Defence University has officially opened applications for its War Studies PhD programme starting in January 2027.
The university is offering multiple funded doctoral positions for both Swedish and international applicants. Selected candidates will receive full employment-based funding while conducting advanced research in one of Europe’s leading institutions for defence, security, and crisis management studies.
The application deadline is 24 August 2026.
About the Swedish Defence University PhD Programme
The Swedish Defence University is a specialized higher education institution focused on defence, security, military science, and crisis preparedness. Its Department of War Studies is internationally recognized for research on conflict, security policy, military organizations, and defence strategy.
The doctoral programme combines academic coursework with independent research. Students work closely with experienced supervisors while contributing to ongoing discussions on contemporary security challenges.
The programme begins in January 2027 and leads to a doctoral degree in War Studies.
PhD Scholarship Details
| Scholarship Name | Swedish Defence University PhD Positions in War Studies 2027 |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Sweden |
| Host Institution | Swedish Defence University |
| Degree Level | PhD |
| Duration | 4 Years |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Study Mode | Full-Time |
| Start Date | January 2027 |
| Application Deadline | 24 August 2026 |
Financial Benefits
Successful applicants will receive full financial support throughout their doctoral studies.
Benefits include:
- Full employment as a doctoral researcher
- Monthly salary starting from approximately SEK 32,600
- Salary increases according to university pay scales
- Research allowance of up to SEK 30,000 annually
- Academic travel support
- Access to university research facilities
- Professional supervision and mentoring
- Funding for four years of doctoral studies
- Possible extension to five years with teaching responsibilities
This funding allows researchers to focus entirely on their academic work without tuition costs.
Available Research Areas
Applicants can submit research proposals within several areas of War Studies.
General War Studies
Candidates may propose projects related to:
- Military strategy
- Defence and security policy
- Crisis management
- Conflict studies
- Military organizations
- Ethics of warfare
- Security and defence planning
Russian Warfare
Research topics may include:
- Russian military doctrine
- Operational planning
- Military modernization
- Command structures
- Defence technologies
- Strategic development
Applicants for this specialization must demonstrate proficiency in reading Russian.
Gender, Peace and Security
Potential research themes include:
- Feminist security studies
- Gender and conflict
- Military institutions
- Peacebuilding processes
- Security governance
- Post-conflict recovery
Military Logistics
Research areas may cover:
- Civil defence systems
- Supply chain resilience
- Crisis preparedness
- Military logistics
- Civil-military cooperation
- Lessons from the Ukraine conflict
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet both general and subject-specific admission requirements.
General Requirements
Candidates must have:
- A Master’s degree or equivalent qualification
- At least 240 ECTS credits
- A minimum of 60 ECTS credits at postgraduate level
Academic Requirements
Applicants should also possess:
- At least 90 ECTS credits in social sciences
- At least 30 ECTS credits in War Studies or a related discipline
- Strong English language skills
- Research experience relevant to the proposed topic
Related disciplines may include:
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Security Studies
- Sociology
- Defence Studies
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Academic excellence
- Quality of previous research
- Originality of the research proposal
- Methodological strength
- Critical thinking skills
- Analytical ability
- Relevance of educational background
Military professional education can strengthen an application but is not required.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Completed application form
- Research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Master’s degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Academic thesis or equivalent research work
- Language proficiency evidence
- Supporting academic documents
All application materials should be complete before submission.
Why Study War Studies in Sweden?
Sweden has become a major center for security and defence research. The Swedish Defence University offers a unique environment that connects academic research with real-world policy challenges.
Doctoral candidates gain access to:
- International research networks
- Defence policy experts
- Security specialists
- Advanced research resources
- Interdisciplinary academic collaboration
The programme also provides opportunities to contribute to ongoing discussions about global security, military strategy, and crisis preparedness.
Application Timeline
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | Currently Open |
| Application Deadline | 24 August 2026 |
| Selection Interviews | Autumn 2026 |
| Programme Start | January 2027 |
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit their applications through the Swedish Defence University recruitment system.
Follow these steps:
- Review the eligibility requirements carefully.
- Select your preferred research area.
- Prepare a strong research proposal.
- Gather academic documents and transcripts.
- Submit the complete application before the deadline.
- Wait for interview invitations and selection results.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Final Thoughts
The Swedish Defence University PhD Positions in War Studies 2027 offer an outstanding opportunity for researchers interested in defence, conflict, and security studies. With full funding, employment benefits, and access to a leading European research environment, the programme provides an excellent pathway for building a career in academia, policy analysis, or strategic research.
Candidates interested in military studies, security policy, crisis management, or international conflict should begin preparing their applications well before the 24 August 2026 deadline.
