how do phds work in europe

Doing a PhD in Europe vs. the US

Are you thinking of doing a PhD abroad? There are some considerable differences between European and American PhD programs that you should know about before applying. Read on to determine which program is right for you.

Qualifications

It is often not possible to do a PhD in Europe without first earning a Master’s degree. In the US, many PhD programs accept applicants who only have a Bachelor's degree. Students usually earn a Master’s as part of the PhD program after they have completed a few years of coursework and passed certain exams. This doesn't mean that all doctoral candidates in American PhD programs have entered the program straight from undergrad. Several still choose to do a Master’s first before applying for a PhD. In some programs students who already have a Master's might not be required to take as many courses as students with just a Bachelor’s, but this isn't always the case. 

Time to Degree

European PhD programs are shorter than those in the US. For example, it takes three years to complete a PhD in France, Norway, the UK, and Germany. Across Europe, a three to four year PhD in common. In comparison, six years is the average time to degree in the US with many PhDs in the humanities taking seven or eight years to earn their degree.

Thesis Topic

PhD candidates in Europe must choose their thesis topic and supervisor during the application process. Students apply for specific vacant doctoral projects that are usually tied to a professor’s research. As part of their application, they must create a research proposal for this project. It is also possible (in the UK for example) to apply to a department rather than a specific position, but applicants must still include a research proposal and are advised to contact potential supervisors before applying. In the US, candidates apply to a department’s PhD program, rather than a specific PhD project. While they have to discuss their research interests and identify potential supervisors in their applications, students do not decide on their thesis topic until their second or third year. In fact, many science and engineering programs have students rotate between different labs in their first year before deciding on their supervisor and dissertation project.

Teaching Requirement

PhD candidates occasionally have the opportunity to teach in Europe, although teaching is not a requirement in many countries. In the US, PhD candidates are often required to teach undergraduates, often as teaching assistants for a large lecture class. A teaching assistant leads smaller tutorials for 20-30 students and grades their exams and papers. Most PhD students will TA one class each semester for two to three years. Several American PhD programs also have mandatory pedagogy courses for graduate students.

Many European PhD programs require students to do little to no coursework. Candidates start working on their dissertation projects right away. American PhD programs, regardless of the field, require students to take two to three years of courses and seminars about topics across the discipline before they being working on their dissertation.

Funding and Salary

In several European countries, PhD students are seen as employees and have work contracts. As employees, PhD students pay into health insurance, pension, and unemployment insurance. In countries where PhD students are not employees (such as the UK and Italy) students apply for university scholarships, external fellowships, or research grants for funding. Tuition fees are drastically lower in many European countries compared to the United States. Funding at American universities varies widely, as do tuition fees. Private universities have higher tuition than public state schools (though international students usually higher tuition at state schools). The top schools offer five-year funding packages which cover tuition and fees and provide a monthly stipend. They also often include health insurance and conference travel. At other schools, students must compete for fellowships at the university, state, or national level to fund their PhDs. In some departmnets students will be paid and receive partial tuition credit for take teaching assistantship or research assistantship positions.

Comprehensive Exams

Most European PhD programs do not require students to pass qualifying exams to progress through their PhDs. There are some notable exceptions, like Sweden, where PhD candidates do an oral and written exam at the halfway point of their PhD. In the US, students usually have to pass a series of comprehensive exams before they can start working on their dissertation. The exams test the student’s knowledge of the major fields within their discipline. While every university will have a slightly different exam structure, there is usually an oral and a written component. Sometimes students also have to orally defend their dissertation proposal. After the candidate has completed their coursework and passed all the required exams they are considered ABD (all but dissertation).

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11 Secrets of a PhD in Europe vs USA that Matter

A PHD in Europe or USA?

They’re VERY different!

If you are trying to decide between pursuing a PhD in the USA vs a PhD in the UK, you should think more about which fits you best. There are 11 major differences between the two systems and you need to choose the one that fits you best:

Masters Degree

Typically, in Europe, you would join a PhD program after completing your Master’s degree. In the US, you would spend a few years taking courses (alongside research) to get your Master’s degree.

If you already have a Master’s degree, you may get a course waiver, which could reduce the time needed to complete your PhD.

Most of the US universities ask for GRE and TOEFL in your application for PhD program. But this not mandatory for PhD in europe, including UK and German universities. Though TOEFL, preferably above 90, is highly recommended for international students.

Choose your project before starting your PhD

For PhD in the UK (and Europe) , you need to choose a project before starting your PhD program.

This is different from the US , where you typically apply to a department for your PhD first and your thesis and research evolves in a year or two.

There are no class requirements for a PhD in the UK . You begin your research right away. The assumption is PhD students know their research areas. After all, you start by applying to a professor / lecturer with a research area in mind.

Now, that might be true for some students. Others may want to get exposed to new ideas and potential research topics. In addition, they may also want to have a wider peer group that gets formed in classes.

PhD in US vs Europe: Time to completion

PhD programs in the UK (and rest of Europe) take around 3 to 4 years to complete .

After a PhD in the UK, students generally go on to their postdoctoral research.

In the US , a PhD may take up to 5 or 6 years.

After a PhD in the US , students tend to go directly from graduation to academia or research jobs without a postdoc.

In many UK (and European) universities, there are firm guidelines on just how long a PhD takes and those are more important than individual decisions by a student’s advisers. In comparison, in the US, some students can fly through their PhD in 3 years with tremendous amounts of research, while others can take as long as 8 to 10 years to complete their PhD.

There are different systems within Europe.

In Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, a PhD takes 4 to 5 years and includes additional teaching duties. Students in these schools are considered as employees. They receive monthly salaries which are comparable to the salaries earned by graduate students working in various industries and are taxable as well. A PhD student is allowed to either present or attend at least one conference anywhere in the world, expenses for which are taken care of by the research group.

In Germany, a 4-year PhD is considered too long and funding might not be available after the first three years of the PhD program.

Work-life balance

This point is less about the PhD in question, and more about the cultural difference between the UK (and Europe) and the US, but this could be a factor in your decision making if you are particular about the type of culture around you and the kind of lifestyle you wish to have.

The PhD lifestyle is much more relaxed in the UK (and in Europe). You will have more time for yourself as well as your friends and family in the UK, while pursuing your PhD.

In the US, PhD students are often overworked with more teaching and grading responsibilities. They also have a lot of class work.

PhD in UK vs US: Hierarchical Structure

In the US, PhD students report to and directly interact with their professors, but some of the PhD programs in the UK are headed by the Professor but there is also a Reader and a Lecturer. Students sometimes feel this hampers their flexibility to work, while restricting their exposure to the lab as well as the head of the lab.

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Future opportunities.

Some students feel that the US offers more opportunities to PhD students in academia as well as jobs. This can be true as the US has many universities offering teaching positions as well as companies offering jobs to PhD students.

However, irrespective of whether you earn your PhD from Europe or the US, some experts say you may have to hustle to find a great job after your PhD.

Different Stipend (salary)

For most PhD in the UK (and Europe), stipend (or salary) comes centrally from the universities or from Government research organizations. These stipends (or salaries) may be limited to only 3 years.

In the US , stipend (or salary) comes directly from your supervisor without any limitation on the duration of the PhD. Unlike in big US universities, there are fewer TA responsibilities for PhD students in UK universities.

In many cases, you don’t need to pay tax on your income as a graduate student in the UK (and Europe).

In Germany , international PhD students are funded for 3 years by the German government.

Less Publications

In the UK , you have less chances of getting published . Your time is more focused on your thesis document.

Less Chance of Faculty Position Afterwards

In the US , students opt for faculty positions after receiving their PhD .

This isn’t necessarily the case with PhD students in the UK , who opt for postdoc positions to remain in academia.

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More Similarity Than Differences

The UK (and European) universities are being influenced by the US system. Many UK universities’ Computer Science schools have Doctoral Training Programs which are essentially 4-year PhD programs, with the first year focused on teaching. These programs offer more flexibility about what you end up doing and who you end up working with. Also, these programs often are sponsored by industries, which means these have higher stipends and you may get an adviser in industry.

So, which one to choose – UK (or Europe) PhD vs US PhD?

Apart from the factors mentioned above, you should focus on the quality of the research group and reputation of the professor. You should look at the top conferences about your topic of interest and note where the papers come from. That’s your best clue as to which university / school you should choose.

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Find your PhD position in Germany

Before you start your search ....

Before you start your search you should know that there are different PhD models:

• Individual doctorate  or
• Structured PhD programmes

What's the difference? Check out our  overview of the various ways to do your PhD in Germany  

Find your individual doctorate

The "traditional" or "individual" path to a PhD remains the most common in Germany. An individual doctorate involves a thesis or dissertation that is produced under the  supervision of one professor . This form of PhD study offers a great deal of  flexibility , but demands a high degree of  personal initiative  and responsibility.

How to find your PhD supervisor

In Germany there is no central admissions or selection office for doctoral students. Therefore, your first step is to find a suitable professor who is willing to be your supervisor.

One way to find a supervisor is to look for a university institute that matches your area of research. The following online search engines might help you find a suitable supervisor:

• GERiT – German research institutions GERiT is a website containing information on approximately 29,000 research institutions in Germany. GERiT allows the user to search easily by location or subject. It provides all the information needed to choose an institution at which to research, study or do a doctorate. www.gerit.org
• Finding a PhD position PhDGermany publishes PhD openings in Germany that specifically target international applicants. Accordingly, in most cases the working language is English. Fluent knowledge of German is only required for certain special positions. PhDGermany helps you find the right PhD opening or supervisor for your doctoral thesis and assists you with the online application process. www.phdgermany.de
• Higher Education Compass   This database provides up-to-date information from universities about doctoral opportunities in Germany. The search engine enables you to carry out targeted searches on the basis of departments, admission requirements and form of doctoral thesis. www.higher-education-compass.de

Furthermore,  your contacts with your professors or previous university  could help direct you to a suitable department or potential supervisor in Germany.

It is also helpful to attend  academic conferences  in your own subject area. There you will be able to exchange information and make contacts ­– and perhaps even find a future PhD supervisor.

Find your structured PhD programme

DAAD/Ausserhofer/Himsel

Structured PhD programmes in Germany are frequently very similar to the PhD programmes in English-speaking countries, in which a  team of supervisors  look after a  group of doctoral students . Around 12,000 doctoral students from abroad – roughly one in four – do their PhDs in structured programmes. As a rule, it is possible to complete a doctorate in four to five years.

Where to find your PhD programme

There is no central database of all structured PhD programmes in Germany. You can usually find these programmes directly through the respective universities, graduate schools or non-university research institutions. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) database is also a good place to look. Here you will find a large number of PhD programmes that are specially aimed at international doctoral students.

International doctoral programme database

Are you interested in an international doctoral programme in Germany? This DAAD database presents a selection of roughly 230 international doctoral programmes in Germany. The database can be searched according to different criteria.  www.daad.de/international-programmes 

Doctoral programmes at universities

Many universities offer structured doctoral programmes, which they publicise on their websites. The Student Advisory Service or Graduate Centre at the respective university will also provide help here. You can find the relevant addresses using the Higher Education Compass provided by the German Rectors’ Conference. www.higher-education-compass.de

​​​​​​​DFG-funded research training groups

Research training groups are also funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation, DFG) for a period of up to nine years. Their key emphasis is on the qualification of doctoral researchers within the framework of a focused research programme and a structured training strategy. www.dfg.de > Current Research Training Groups

Helmholtz Research Schools, Colleges and Graduate Schools

The Helmholtz Association is Germany’s largest scientific organisation. In collaboration with various institutions of higher education, Helmholtz Association research centres have established structured PhD programmes under the auspices of Helmholtz Graduate Schools, Helmholtz Research Schools and Colleges.  www.helmholtz.de > PhD Candidates 

Leibniz Graduate Schools

The Leibniz Association connects 97 research institutes that conduct problem-oriented research and provide scientific infrastructure of national and international importance. Together with universities they run structured PhD programmes in Leibniz Graduate Schools. www.leibniz-association.eu > Leibniz Graduate Schools

International Max Planck Research Schools

The Max Planck Society specialises in innovative basic research and its institutes are able to offer up-and-coming researchers excellent infrastructure and support. The website lists the programmes available at International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS):  www.mpg.de > International Max Planck Research Schools  

Max Planck Schools

In Germany, the best researchers in a specific field are often work at different universities and non-university research institutions spread throughout the country. The Max Planck Schools serve as hubs which gather this distributed knowledge. Here, the brightest minds in their fields have come together from within the scientific community to interconnect in faculties made up of active researchers. Students gain access to these unique networks, learn in close personal exchange from leaders in their fields and their peers, and enjoy access to outstanding infrastructure. Currently, three Schools are operating in the fields of Cognition, Matter to Life, and Photonics. www.maxplanckschools.de

Where can I find out about requirements?

Application procedures  differ from programme to programme . The precise requirements and deadlines can be found on the website of the respective university, research training group or graduate school. You should therefore first choose a PhD programme and/or graduate school.

You've found the position you want to apply for, but how does applying to a potential supervisor or structured PhD programme work in Germany? Find out more here.

DAAD/Jan Zappner

We help you navigate through the large number of job portals that specialise in openings for academics and scientists. These are some of the sites that may get you started.

DAAD/Uta Konopka

Check out our brochure

Doing a phd in germany (2019, 40 pages).

This booklet for (prospective) international doctoral students presents the different options for doing a doctorate in Germany. It explains the formal requirements and gives some practical advice on finding the right supervisor or doctoral programme. It also outlines different sponsorship and funding options.

• How to Apply for A PhD Abroad – International Study
• Applying to a PhD

So you’ve decided to enrol onto a doctoral degree and study abroad at the same time. This is a great opportunity to develop yourself both personally and academically. However, do you actually go about securing a PhD as an international student? To help answer this for you, we’ve created this guide to explain how to apply for a PhD in foreign universities.

Why Do Your PhD Abroad?​​​​​​​

There are many benefits to studying abroad.

Some PhD students do so as a way to develop a new language, discover more about a different culture, and to meet new people.

Besides personal reasons, undertaking a doctorate degree abroad can also for academic purposes. For example, in some countries, a particular research field may not be very popular and so there may not be many doctorate options available. In these cases, undertaking a PhD abroad will open up many more opportunities. It could also offer greater funding, lower tuition fees, better laboratory equipment and more experienced supervisors. Not only would these factors result in a more enjoyable PhD, but they could also contribute to greater career prospects. For example, you will likely have more opportunities to write publications, attend conferences and collaborate with other researchers. All of these will help you establish yourself as a respectable researcher within your field.

Is It Difficult to Apply to PhDs Abroad?​​​​​​​

It’s not as difficult as you would imagine when it comes to applying to a PhD in a foreign country. Regardless of whether you’re applying to a university within the EU, such as the UK, Finland or Spain, or to universities within the US or Asia, the processes are relatively similar.

The differences in the application process can be categorised into three areas.

• the documents you need to provide,
• the prerequisite tests you need to sit,
• how much you need to communicate with the potential supervisors before applying.

We’ve provided a basic outline of the application processes below. Although this will provide you with a good starting point, we highly recommend you look at the university websites for specific instructions and guidance before applying.

Will I Need a Student Visa?​​​​​​​

This will depend on what country you are applying to. For example:

• In the UK, applicants from outside the EU will need a Visa Tier 4 (Student). This will allow them to undertake a full-time PhD. However, due to UK visa restrictions, international students are unlikely to be able to enrol onto a part-time degree.
• In Germany, most students will not require a student visa but will require a residence permit.
• In the US, applicants will need to hold an F-1 Student Visa.
• In Asia, the requirements differ depending on the specific country. For example, in China, you will require an X1 Student Visa whereas in Singapore you will require a Student Pass.

Because of the significant differences between countries, we highly recommend it is highly that you check the requirements on an individual case-by-case basis. This is best done by checking the government website of the country you wish to apply to.

General Process for Applying to PhDs Abroad​​​​​​​

When applying to a PhD position, most universities regardless of where they’re located will require:

• Online Application – An electronic form to provide your details and attach all supporting documents. You will also need to make any application fees during this process if required.
• Academic Transcripts – Most universities need a scanned copy of your transcripts when applying. You will only have to submit official hard copies once they have accepted your admission.
• CV – This should include details of your previous education, undergraduate degree and any experiences revenant to the field you’re applying to.
• Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement – A letter which outlines why you’re applying to the PhD and why you believe you’re suitable for the project.
• Letters of Recommendation – this should preferably be provided by your undergraduate degree course tutor or a professor who knows you well.

Language Tests

If your PhD is to be undertaken in English and English isn’t your first language, most universities will require you to sit an English language proficiency test. The most common tests, in order of popularity, are:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems)
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• PTE (Pearson Test of English)

The minimum test scores will change from university to university. They will also vary depending on the research field. For example, research projects related to English Literature or Law will require relatively high scores whilst projects in Science and Engineering will require slightly lower scores. To provide an example, the University of Leicester in the UK requires a minimum overall IELTS score of 7 for Law PhDs but has a lower overall score requirement of 6 for Engineering PhDs.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

How to Apply for PhDs in EU Countries​​​​​​​

For UK universities, there are generally two ways of applying. You can either apply directly through the university’s website or you can make an application through the UCAS Postgraduate system .

In Spain, Italy and Germany, before applying to a PhD you will first need to pass a pre-application process. This involves checking that your qualifications meet their eligibility requirements. Before undergoing this pre-screening process, it would be beneficial to first speak to your government. They may offer advice on how your countries qualification system corresponds to the qualification system in the country hosting the PhD.

Once you’ve made your application, the university will review it and get in contact with you. For most EU institutions, they will invite you for a Skype or telephone interview with them if they believe you may be a suitable candidate.

If you require a student visa to study in an EU country, it’s recommended that you submit your application at least 3-4 months before the proposed PhD start date.

How to Apply for PhDs in USA

In addition to the English language exams mentioned previously, international applicants will also need to sit additional exams to be eligible for PhDs in the USA. These are the GRE General Exam and GRE Subject Exam(s). The GRE Subject Exam(s) you will need to undertake will be specific to your field and will be specified by the university as part of their edibility requirements.

Securing a PhD position in the United States is considered relatively difficult compared to other countries. As a result, it is commonly recommended that you apply to at least 9 different universities to increase your chances of securing a position.

How to Apply for PhDs in Asia

As Asia covers a wide range of countries such as China, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, UAE and India, their application processes naturally differ from one another. Therefore, check the specific application process for each university you’re interested to get the most accurate information.

To summarise:

• China – uses two centralised application services, CUAC and CUCAS. Both these services help international students find and apply to a PhD project in China. Students can also apply directly to a University if they wish to.
• Singapore – rather than applying to a specific research project, you will have to apply to a faculty or department within a University. Only once you have been accepted into the university department will their research projects become available to you. Like US universities, most universities in Singapore will have required you to have sat a GRE Exams prior to applying to them.
• UAE – you must apply directly to your chosen university. To be eligible for a PhD in UAE, you must hold a Master’s degree and it must be from a university recognised by their government. You will also be required to undertake GRE Exams before making your application.

How to Apply for PhDs in Australia

To apply to a PhD in Australia, you will first be expected to find and email a potential supervisor. If you’re an international student and you make an application directly to the university without doing this first, it’s highly likely that you won’t be considered for the position.

Upon discussing the project with the supervisor, they will instruct you to put in a formal application. This formal application will require the information previously outlined above.

Similar to EU institutions, if an Australian university believes you’re a strong candidate, they will likely invite you to a Skype or telephone interview.

Unlike EU universities, PhDs in Australian universities can start at any time of the year. Therefore, unless a specific funding requirement is attached to the project, there are usually no deadlines associated with applying to their PhDs. However, try to apply 3 to 4 months before you intend to start your studies.

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PhD in Europe vs US – Key Differences

A PhD is the last level of education you can achieve in a particular field. To earn a PhD, a student must show academic and research mastery in their subject. If you are considering pursuing a PhD program, you should explore all your options. Renowned institutions are offering prestigious PhD programs all over the world. Generally, you have hundreds of options to pick from, but choosing a single program within so many can be overwhelming. This article compares PhD programs in Europe vs the US. Both locations offer competitive programs. However, the doctorate programs in such different locations vary significantly in terms of length, structure, minimum requirements, etc. The section below expands on the key differences:

Comparison: PhD Europe vs US

Program structure and minimum requirements.

In the US, a student with just a bachelor’s degree can get accepted into a PhD program. The PhD program consists of a combined master’s plus PhD degree. First, the students complete coursework for 2 to 3 years. Then, they must pass qualifying exams to prove knowledge in their field and readiness to conduct research. Once they have passed the qualifying exams, they can continue to the last part of the program: their own research. If a student fails a qualifying exam twice, the university won’t let them proceed and earn a PhD. Yet, they can still graduate with a master’s.

It is possible to shorten the length of a PhD program in the US if the student has a master’s degree in their field of study. Then, some courses can be credited to as completed to shorten the coursework portion of their program. However, this is not a general rule. Each university has its own procedures regarding this matter. A factor to keep in mind is that universities are more likely to credit courses if the degree was awarded recently.

In Europe, the structure of PhDs is different. The vast majority of programs require a master’s degree. And the master’s degree must align with the field of study the student wishes to pursue during their program. PhD candidates are already familiar with research and start working on their thesis from the very beginning. In most cases, there is no need to complete any coursework or take qualifying examinations.

Length: Time to Degree

According to the  2018 Doctorate Recipients from US Universities Report [1], the average PhD candidate takes 8.6 years to complete their degree. Doctorate programs in Physical Sciences such as biology or physics, are the shortest with an average completion time of 6.9 years. Similarly, Engineering PhDs took an average of 7.3 years. On the other hand, PhDs in Education took the longest to complete with an average time to degree of 14.7 years. In the US, the research advisor decides when the student has made enough research contributions to graduate.

In Europe, PhDs tend to be a lot shorter. The average time to degree is four years[2]. Many programs have predefined set lengths. The students must put enough effort into their thesis to obtain meaningful results within the timeframe. Four years might seem short compared to the 8.6 years in the US, but incoming students already have a master’s degree in their field of interest.

Thesis and Thesis Advisor

PhD applicants in Europe have a clear idea of their research interest. They chose their research advisor and thesis topic during their application. During admissions, they are asked to pitch their research topic not only to sell their idea but also to prove their expertise in research methods.

Since, in the US, many students start their PhD right after their bachelor’s, they might not have much experience in research yet. They are not expected to choose an advisor or thesis topic right from the start. Most admitted students are still learning about their interests. Because the program includes at least two years of coursework, they have a few years to explore different subfields and figure out which one to pursue.

Top US institutions offer fully-funded PhD programs with a stipend for living expenses. Others offer fully-funded programs to only a limited number of fields of study. However, the vast majority of students in the US must search for funding through other channels such as grants, scholarships, and their research advisor. Also, some students fund their studies through Graduate Assistantship (GA) and Research Assistantship (RA) positions at the university. This positions include several duties, such as grading homework and tests, assisting during classes, and performing research.

The government supports many PhD programs in Europe. Yet, this funding might be limited to only tuition costs or might have a maximum term limit depending in the country. Students in Europe must also search for other funding opportunities to secure their financial situation. Again, students can apply for grants and scholarships, and perform work for the university.

The main drawback of taking a TA or RA position is the additional work students must perform. PhD programs are very demanding and take many years to complete regardless of the location. When students are loaded with extra responsibilities, they are more likely to get delayed on their research and even quit the program.

Other Considerations

Studying abroad can allow you to explore a different part of the world and widen your options for PhD programs. However, moving to another country is a challenge. For example, you need to research about student visas, funding, and language barriers. PhDs in the US are entirely in English. In Europe, many universities offer English based doctorate programs, and others offer programs based on their local language. In regards to visas, visas are required when studying abroad. US applicants will need to apply for a student Schengen visa . And European applicants will need to apply for a student F-1 visa .

Final Comparison: PhD Europe vs US

• Minimum requirements: Bachelor’s degree in the US vs. Master’s degree in Europe
• Thesis topic: Students in Europe must know their research topic from the start
• Funding: Funding options vary across institutions and countries
• Language: PhD programs in the US are in English. European universities offer programs in different languages.
• Visa: Required in most cases

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The first step towards earning a PhD is finding the right PhD program. Read more .

Find the Right Ph.D. Program: Main Considerations (including funding)

[1]  https://ncses.nsf.gov/pubs/nsf20301/report

[2] https://www.phdstudies.com/PhD/Europe/

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10 Leading Development Studies PhDs in Europe

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Europe has some of the top universities offering PhDs in Development Studies. A PhD in Development Studies at one of these European universities allows for the in-depth investigation of the issues developing countries face. Development Studies PhD students complete extensive and rigorous research supported by some of Europe’s leading development practitioners. The PhDs detailed below also encourage students to engage with a Europe wide network of development professionals, whilst also working with some of the world’s leading development institutions headquartered in Europe.

PhD in International Development Studies – Ruhr-Universität Bochum University

Ruhr-Universität Bochum University in Germany offers a PhD in International Development Studies. Hosted within the Ruhr-Universität Bochum University’s Institute of Development Research and Development Policy – one Europe’s leading research groups on international development, PhD students are able to explore in-depth specific development challenges. Around 10 PhD candidates are selected each year and assigned a supervisor who is a leading professional within development studies academia.

Studying a PhD in Europe at the Ruhr-Universität Bochum University allows researchers an inter-disciplinary approach to development studies. This mean students on the PhD programme work to combine multiple approaches to international development and cover a wide range of resources when addressing their chosen development issue. Students on the development studies PhD at Ruhr-Universität Bochum University also attend supporting seminars on issues related to international development and research.

PhD Humanitarianism and Conflict Response – University of Manchester

Manchester University is one of Europe’s most famous institutions with departments focusing on international development. For those wanting to study a PhD in Europe for a career in international development, the Manchester University PhD in Humanitarianism and Conflict Response is a strong option. Students on the PhD programme complete detailed and rigours research into ongoing and historical crises. The aim of the PhD is to develop research that can affect national, European and global approaches to international development.

Studying the Humanitarianism and Conflict Response PhD in Europe at Manchester University is highly relevant for those wanting to research international development. The three-year PhD encourages students to work closely with leading international development institutions as well as engage in-depth with development studies research. PhD students are directed by leading academics in the field of international development and humanitarian aid and engage with the latest tools and methods of development studies research. The PhD can also be completed in six-year part-time.

PhD International Affairs – International Business School, Budapest

You can study a PhD focusing on international development in Europe at Hungary’s International Business School. The PhD in International Affairs allows for a broad research scope which can include a focus on development. The aim of the PhD is for students to become experts in international policy and foreign affairs, arenas that relate directly to international development. Students on the PhD in International Affairs at the International Business School in Hungary, Europe, undertake both independent and supervised research.

For those wanting to study in Central Europe and have an interest in development studies, the PhD in International Affairs at the International Business School in Hungary is an option. The PhD programme allows for research into key development studies topics such as refugees and migrations, ‘international aid: traditional versus emerging donors’ and the effects of EU expansion into the Balkans. The PhD’s focus on development studies also means students can research topics such as community development and challenges in social integration.

International Development Online Courses

If you are interested in international development and potentially doing a PhD, taking an online short course can be a great way to boost your application. We highly recommend the course Management of International Development: Towards Agenda 2030 . It looks at the current international development model as well as the trends that will be key to global development in the near future. Follow the link to the course’s page for more information.

We also think the online course Sustainable Development in the 21st Century by Yonsei University to be one of the best for those interested in international development. Delivered by former UN Secretary General Ban-ki Moon, the online course would be a great addition to the CV of anyone looking to study or work in international development. The link is to the course’s page.

If you are interested in the practical methods used on international development projects, we recommend the online course How To Design & Fund International Development NGO Projects . The course teaches students the tools needed to establish and run impactful development projects. Click the link to visit the course’s page for more information.

PhD International Economic Relations – Prague University of Economics and Business

Prague University of Economics and Business offers a unique PhD programme in Europe on International Economic Relations. Studying in the Czech Republic in Central Europe, students on the course focus on how economic connections develop, compound and affect developed and developing countries. On the PhD students undertake independent research, allowing those with an interest in development studies to focus on how economic relations have an impact on poorer countries. PhD students are encouraged to develop practical solutions to economic and development problems.

Studying the PhD in International Economic Relations at the Prague University of Economics and Business means studying at one of Europe’s leading institutions. Students on the PhD programme can focus on how economic development can be achieved through improved economic relations. By researching the impact of trade, tariffs, humanitarian aid and economic co-dependency on developing countries, students are able to produce cutting edge-research to impact positive change on poorer countries.

MPhil/PhD Development Planning – University College London (UCL)

University College London (UCL) is one of Europe’s top universities. The prestigious university offers a PhD in Development Planning. Students on the course complete extensive research into different areas of planning, including economic, urban, transport, and social and how these can impact developing countries. The PhD in Development Planning at University College London also incorporates key international development topics such as gender, climate change, globalisation and economic inequality. Students undertake independent research and are able to focus on the development studies area most relevant to them.

For those wanting to complete a PhD in Europe in Development Studies, the Development Planning PhD at UCL is a strong option. The PhD is led by leading international development practitioners and students are able to network with some of Europe’s leading develop institutions based in London. Students research on the Development Planning PhD at University College London can take a specific or broad approach to development researching, focusing on international development and planning at local, national, regional and internationals arenas.

Development Studies PhD – University of Sussex

The University of Sussex is one of the top international development institutions in Europe. Students on the PhD programme in development studies at the University of Sussex conduct research into sustainable change in economics, politics and cultures of developing countries. The PhD aims for students to create both local and global changes and complete extensive research into practical policies to assist developing countries. Research is conducted to help fight poverty and injustice and expand on creative solutions to global issues.

Studying a PhD in Development Studies in Europe at the University of Sussex allows for a wide range of study areas. Participants on the University of Sussex Development Studies PhD programme focus on research areas such as fighting and limiting inequalities, improving sustainability and ensuring inclusive societies have security. Development Studies PhD students at the University of Sussex can network with some of Europe’s leading international development organisations and are taught by professional leaders in development practice.

PhD in Economics – Geneva School Of Economics And Management

Geneva is Europe’s centre for many leading international development organisations, such as the ICRC and UNHCR. The Geneva School of Economics and Management has a PhD in Economics which allows for a focus on development economics. For those wanting to do a PhD in Development Studies in the heart of Europe, the Geneva School of Economics and Management PhD allows for combination of independent research and elective courses on development economics. Students complete research overseen by leading economic theorists and practitioners.

Studying the PhD in Economics at the Geneva School of Economics and Management allows students to network with some of Europe’s largest and most established international development organisations. Students on the PhD in Economics at the Geneva School of Economics and Management cover both macro and micro-economics, with those focusing on development studies able to investigate how macro and micro-economic policy affects international development.

International Development PhD – University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh in Europe offers a PhD in International Development. On the course, students complete rigorous and in-depth research into development, aiming to produce relevant research to inform and improve international development. The University of Edinburgh PhD in International Development is led by leading development practitioners with expertise on the issues affecting developing countries in Africa, South Asia and Latin America. PhD students are also encouraged to build Europe wide relationships and work cooperatively with European development researchers.

The PhD in International Development at the University of Edinburgh is one of Europe’s top development research posts. On the PhD, students can explore key development topics such as international development policy, humanitarian health and how development is impacted and impacts on religion and culture. PhD students at the University of Edinburgh can also focus on international development topics such as climate change, human rights, refugees and migration and urbanisation. The PhD programme encourages students to engage with a Europe-wide network of development institutions including NGOs, grass-root campaigners and international organisations and the media.

Development Studies, Ph.D. / M.Phil. – Swansea University

Swansea University in the UK offers European and international students a PhD in Development Studies. The course allows students to pursue a large and extensive piece of research into development issues of their choosing. The Swansea University PhD is one of Europe’s top courses focusing on key international development issues such as global drugs policy, conflict and security and analysing governmental policy in developing countries. Students undertake research supervised by leading European development practitioners.

On the PhD in Development Studies at Swansea University in Europe students undertake significant independent research into leading international development issues, culminating in the submission of a 100,000-word thesis. Additional key global development subjects PhD students engage with at Swansea University include human rights, international development policy, international humanitarian law and global peace. PhD students on the Development Studies programme at Swansea University are encouraged to engage with a Europe wide network of development organisations and professionals

PhD Global Human Development – University College Dublin

University College Dublin (UCD) offers one of Europe’s top development studies PhDs. The PhD in Global Human Development at UCD fosters research into strong solutions for current development issues, with a specific focus on the Millennium and Sustainable Development Goals. Students undertake research into poverty reduction, ensuring to incorporate real-world experiences of developing countries. The UCD PhD in Global Human Development is linked with a number of leading universities in developing countries, including in Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Malawi, allowing students to work cooperatively with other development researchers outside of Europe.

Students on the University College Dublin PhD in Global Human Development are encouraged to develop Europe wide connections with development practitioners. The course is also led by experts in current development thinking, meaning students research is directed to reflect the current issues affecting developing nations. The UCD PhD in Global Human Development aims for students to complete rigorous, in-depth and highly informed research working to reduce global inequality, fight poverty and improve the governance of developing nations.

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European Education Area

Studying and working in europe in a postdoc position.

Europe has a wealth of postdoc reasearch and postdoc jobs opportunities for people who graduated with a doctoral degree.

If you are one of those who wish to continue studying in Europe following doctoral studies, you have several options.

You may choose to continue your career as a university researcher, in a postdoctoral position or with research-oriented companies in the private sector.

Postdoc opportunity

One key opportunity after graduating doctoral studies is to go down the route of becoming a professional researcher through a postdoc scheme. A postdoctoral phase can be important in developing expertise and skills. It can sometimes be required to pursue an academic career.

Working under the supervision of a mentor, a postdoc researcher conducts research as part of a larger research group. You work either on a specified project or one of you own research areas. The aim is to publish this research.

During that time the researcher becomes independent, whilst continually developing their scientific competences and professional skills.

Postdoc funding

There are significant differences in and across countries in the way postdoc positions are funded. Postdocs can have different lengths, levels of independence, recognition, and employment status (such as fellow, employee, or scholar). It’s essential to be aware of the terms and conditions of the individual opportunities.

While it may seem difficult to find a suitable position at first, Europe is full of opportunities in universities and private sector for all types of highly-qualified specialists. It’s important to be persistent, open and inquisitive while on your postdoc journey.

Early Preparations

Your postdoc opportunities may depend on the subject you graduated in and your contacts. During your studies, you should already place some focus on building your network of professional contacts. Begin to look actively for postdoc and research opportunities and start to prepare yourself for post-PhD life.

EU Blue Card

In order to remain in Europe after graduation, you must look into residence permits and long-term visa options in the country where you are studying.

• Consider applying for an EU Blue Card . It is a visa programme that allows working and residing in Europe. A Blue Card is issued by the Member State where you wish to take up residence. In some cases, it may be a path towards permanent residence. To find out more about the EU Blue Card, follow the link to visit the official EU Immigration Portal .
• For candidates who are actively seeking a funded postdoc position, it may be productive to seek funding via the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), the EU’s reference programme for doctoral education and postdoctoral training under Horizon Europe . The MSCA foster inter-sectoral and international research. Get more insights and understanding when you follow the link to visit the Postdoctoral Fellowships | Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
• EURAXESS – is the free source of information and support services to professional researchers in Europe. Here, researchers can find constantly updated information on job vacancies, funding opportunities, fellowships and hosting offers throughout Europe. To post your CV or search for a job, follow the link to EURAXESS .

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Find your Ph.D opportunity in Europe

Find your Ph.D opportunity in Europe - Seminar

Apparently, Europe is the world best place to build your research career and gain experiences. The major 7 European countries will provide you with various opportunities to conduct your study in Europe, and during the seminar, other European countries will also join us to answer your individual questions how to study and live in the respective European countries. Please come and meet us!

15:30-15:35 Event Introduction / Mr. Nicholas Burge (EU Delegation to Korea)

15:35-15:45 Introduction of EURAXESS / Dr. Mattieu Py & Dr. Tomasz Wierzbowski

15:45-16:05 Presentation 1. Belgium / Ms. Eva Morre (Embassy of Belgium)

16:05-16:25 Presentation 2. France / Ms. Elodie Franco-Ritz (Embassy of France)

16:25-16:45 Presentation 3. Germany/ Mr. Alexander Renner (Embassy of Germany)

16:45-17:05 Presentation 4. Netherlands / Mr. Peter Wijlhuizen (Embassy of the Netherlands)

17:05-17:25 Presentation 5. Spain / Dr. Jordi Espluga Bach ((Embassy of Spain)

17:25-17:45 Presentation 6. Sweden / Mr. Anders Hektor (Embassy of Sweden)

17:45-18:05 Presentation 7. UK / Mr. Gareth Davies (Embassy of the UK)

18:05-18:30 Open Q&A and Networking