PhD - Doctor of Philosophy
KEY FACTS
• Total scope: 180 ECTS
• Duration of study: 36 months
• Start of study: Rolling admission
• Tuition fees: EUR 24.000
• Learning format: Online study with one-on-one academic supervision, and live group sessions
• Language: English
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
• Proof of academic qualifications at master's level (EQF 7, copies of diplomas)
• Curriculum vitae
• Optional: Description of the research topic (max. 1 A4 page)
COURSE STRUCTURE AND ACADEMIC SUPERVISION
The doctoral program is offered in an online format and allows for individual supervision with flexible schedules. Publications or conference participation are not mandatory as part of the doctoral program. After successful admission, students will receive an invitation link (via email) for online registration.
NEXT ADMISSION DATES
Possible at any time
Further information and details on the application process are available on request.
COURSE STRUCTURE
The doctoral program is divided into three consecutive study sections (tiers), which must be completed in sequence:
Tier 1: Advanced Research Planning and Methodology for Business 60 ECTS
Tier 2: Advanced Research Progress and Progress Review 60 ECTS
Tier 3: Thesis Completion and Viva Voce 60 ECTS
Programme Profile and Academic Orientation
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research-oriented doctoral degree that aims to develop independent, original scientific research. The programme is aimed at candidates who wish to make a substantial contribution to the theoretical, methodological or empirical development of their field and who are pursuing an academic or science-related career.
The PhD programme centres on the completion of an independent research project, which culminates in a dissertation. This work must make a clearly recognisable original contribution to scientific discussion and meet international academic standards. The PhD is clearly theory- and research-driven and differs from practice-oriented doctoral formats in its focus on knowledge gain, theoretical foundation and methodological depth.
The programme is designed to last three to four years and follows a structured yet flexible research logic. In the initial phase, students acquire in-depth methodological skills in qualitative and quantitative research and develop a viable research strategy. Building on this, the dissertation project is continuously developed, regularly evaluated and finally completed in a comprehensive scientific thesis. The course of study is accompanied by formalised evaluation meetings, which serve to ensure quality and the targeted further development of the research project.
A central feature of the PhD programme is close academic supervision. Throughout their studies, students work in close consultation with their supervisors, receive continuous feedback and are supported in the theoretical development, methodological refinement and publication and presentation activities. Exchange with the scientific community, for example through conference participation or publications, is an integral part of the programme.
Upon successful completion, graduates will have acquired strong research skills, the ability to independently develop and carry out complex research projects, and a deep understanding of scientific theories and methods. Upon successful submission and defence of the dissertation, the academic degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) will be awarded.