After successfully completing his/her studies the graduate is able to:

• demonstrate knowledge of educational theories and is able to analyse and interpret the issues related to the theory of school, the theory of curriculum and the theory of teaching
• understand complex issues of language acquisition and is able to evaluate implications of the theories of language acquisition for educational practice,and to apply the acquired expert knowledge in research into teaching and learning a foreign language
• understand methodology of research in foreign language didactics
• apply a number of research methods and procedures, prepare, implement and interpret research in foreign language didactics independently and creatively
• show awareness of the possibilities of researching a foreign language curriculum and its design with regard to modern didactic concepts and requirements of modern society in the field of language education
• understand classical and modern linguistic disciplines, especially in the areas relevant for foreign language didactics  (pragmalinguistics, psycholinguistics, neurolinguistics, sociolinguistics)
• interpret specific relationships of culture and language and to apply the knowledge in research related to foreign language teaching

1. interview and

2. dissertation thesis defence

The graduate has to prove the expertise and ability to carry out independent and creative work in the field.

1. The interview

The first part of the interview is a discussion of the theses of the dissertation that present the major part of the intended dissertation. The second part is a discussion focussing on (1) knowledge and orientation in pedagogy and methodology of educational research, (2) in linguistics, (3) in foreign language didactics and methodology of research in foreign language didactics and specialized areas relevant for the dissertation.

2. Dissertation thesis defence

The studies in the doctoral degree programme are aimed at the completion of a dissertation thesis which should according to para. 47 of the Higher Education Act "show the ability of the candidate to carry out independent activities in the area of research or development, or independent theoretical and creative artistic activities".

Acceptable dissertation theses are original scientifically theoretical, historically comparative, methodological and empirical works, or a work that combines the abovementioned types in an appropriate manner.

The procedure of the State doctoral examination follows the Study and examination regulations available at http://www.rect.muni.cz/statut/studrad_new.htm (catch V, article 30-33).