PhD Programme in Developmental and Educational Psychology

PhD Programme:  Developmental and Educational Psychology
Faculty: Faculty of Humanities
Educational and Scientific Degree: Doctor
Scientific Major: 3.2. Psychology
Mode of Study:  full-time; part-time; individual

 Programme Profile: 
The PhD Programme in Developmental and Educational Psychology (Scientific Major: 3.2. Psychology) is aimed at responding to the needs of the dynamically changing society, the needs of the educational policy and the available psychological services to support the development and complete formation of a versatile young generation and individuals throughout their life.

The mastering and application of the best practices in the field of educational psychology at the beginning of the 21st century confirmed the need for an in-depth scientific study of its problems (general and particular). A scientific approach to the current psychological aspects of the educational policies and the specific mental characteristics at all stages of human life is required. Innovative models for the intellectual and personal development of adolescents have to be developed in order to unlock the potential of individuals to ensure meaningful living in late adulthood.

The relevance of the programme is also determined by its main focus - a study of the psychological processes which occur in a significant area of the modern Bulgarian society

(cognitive, social and emotional development of the adolescents, continuity of generations, life-long learning) and are caused by the dynamics of the development of the social environment - ethnic, religious, professional, cultural, group and personal. All current issues, facing society and civilisation in general, are deeply rooted in education and the upbringing of the young generation, in the ability of the adult society to convey their cultural and historical experiences to their children, to preserve the intellectual potential of adults and to pay homage to their achievements. All these aspects require an in-depth study of the processes and mechanisms that determine the individual and group behaviour of modern man.
 

 PhD Graduates Competences:
The process of training and research aims at preparing the PhD students to prove both their personal and professional competence with regard to:
Self-research studies in the theory and practice of psychology, education and human development(group and personal);
Research and implementation of activities in institutions and organisations through introducing the results of their own research in the organisation and management;
Research and teaching at universities in subjects from professional field 3.2 Pyschology (social psychology, organisational psychology, labour psychology , etc.);
Management in the social and educational sphere for positions that require the appropriate qualifications;
Expert activities for positions that require the appropriate qualifications and the need to solve research and practical tasks in the field of psychology.

Graduation
PhD students need to acquire the number of credits required and defend a PhD thesis.
 
 

Professional Qualification and Career Opportunities:

A PhD graduate in Developmental and Educational Psychology can find a job as an expert in various areas where specific expertise in Educational Psychology and Developmental Psychology is necessary, such as:
University lecturer (e.g Assist.Prof. in Educational Psychology or Developmental Psychology) at universities, colleges, etc.;

Manager of state and municipal social and educational institutions and organisations;
Expert in research institutes and centres (research institutes, media, NGOs, etc. related to the development of human potential).

Project consultant in the development and implementation of various projects related to the adaptation and intergration of adolescents and adults;

Expert in human rights organisations and law enforcement governmental institutions, including structures of the system of national security.