The Joint EPFL-ETH Zurich Doctoral Program in Learning Sciences (JDPLS) aims to train a new generation of scientists skilled in interdisciplinary approaches to understanding and improving learning in real-world contexts. By integrating knowledge from psychology, education, computer science, and data science, the program addresses the challenges of education in the digital age. It focuses on bridging fundamental research with practical applications to enhance learning environments in schools, universities, workplaces, and informal settings. The program is designed for motivated students from any science or engineering background who are passionate about addressing educational challenges stemming from societal digitization.
Graduates of the JDPLS program will be equipped as learning scientists, experts in designing, implementing, and evaluating educational innovations. They are prepared for roles in universities' teaching-learning centers, interdisciplinary research centers, and corporate training departments. Opportunities also exist in informal learning spaces like museums. Furthermore, graduates can pursue academic careers, join companies as scientists, or contribute to learning and technology policy-making.
Candidates must be accepted by a professor affiliated with the JDPLS at either EPFL or ETH Zurich. The program committee pre-selects candidates. Only complete applications are reviewed.
Refer to general EPFL admission and PhD admission criteria and application procedures for more details.
You need a Bachelor's or Master's degree in any field of science or engineering. You must also secure acceptance from a supervising professor affiliated with the JDPLS at either EPFL or ETH Zurich.
The JDPLS is a bilingual program, offered in English and French, involving both EPFL and ETH Zurich.
First, find and get accepted by a JDPLS-affiliated professor at EPFL or ETH Zurich. Then, prepare all required documents and submit your complete application through the official online portal before the deadline.
The application deadlines for the JDPLS program are April 15 and December 15.
Graduates can pursue roles as Learning Scientists, experts in educational innovation, work in teaching-learning centers, interdisciplinary research, corporate training, or informal learning spaces, and can also become academic researchers or policy makers.
The program offers various funding opportunities through research grants, which can be explored via the EPFL Research Office. Specific JDPLS scholarships are not detailed, but applicants are encouraged to seek available research funding.