For each research studies subject, there must be a general syllabus. The syllabus contains a brief description of the subject and the learning outcomes in addition to those specified in the Higher Education Ordinance.

The syllabus also stipulates:

• specific admission requirements for research studies in the subject
• selection methods in the event of there being more applicants than places
• number of credits required for a licentiate, from both courses and a licentiate thesis
• number of credits required for a PhD, from both courses and a doctoral thesis
• mandatory courses in your research study subject

Each doctoral program subject has a general syllabus in which, among other things, the admission requirements and the content of the program are described.

An individual study plan must be available for everyone who has been admitted to postgraduate education. The study plan must be followed up and updated at least once a year.

The individual study plan is a support for your development and the progress of the studies. You participate in the conversations together with all supervisors and representatives of the department. The individual syllabus discussions deal with your studies, supervision, physical environment and mental environment. The conversations should be able to lead to mutual agreements and measures to improve your studies. The conversations should benefit your work and should take place at least once a year - or more often if necessary.

The results of the interview are documented in an individual study plan that is linked to previous individual study plans. For each doctoral student who has not notified in writing that the studies have been interrupted, there must be a written individual study plan. The study plan must be realistic and promote that the goals of the doctoral program can be met, as well as determine the content, guidelines and scope of the dissertation work and the course part. In addition, the individual study plan otherwise clarifies the doctoral student's, supervisors' and department's rights and obligations towards each other.

The first individual study plan must be approved in connection with the start of the studies, but no later than two months after this date. The plan is then discussed and updated at least once a year.

After the signature of the doctoral student, supervisor and representatives of the department, the individual study plan is determined by the head of department. If these cannot be agreed, the plan is approved by the chairman of the third cycle education committee at LTH. If the head of department is the supervisor for the doctoral student, the study plan is determined by the deputy head of department.