Doctoral Studies at the University of Bamberg

There are generally two different ways to pursue doctoral studies at the University of Bamberg: structured doctoral programmes and individual doctoral studies. Structured Doctoral Programmes Structured doctoral programmes are organised around specific thematic fields of research in graduate schools. The doctoral thesis takes shape and is written within a community of doctoral candidates and a network of supervising professors. Doctoral candidates attend subject-specific and interdisciplinary training courses and sign supervision agreements defining the rights and duties of doctoral candidates and advisers, respectively. Some doctoral programmes include scholarships. Admission requirements and modalities are provided by these programmes’ websites. Individual Doctoral Studies PhD projects may also be supervised by one professor or a supervising committee. The traditional German expressions, "Doktormutter" or "Doktorvater" (literally “doctor mother" / "doctor father” to denote the PhD adviser), reflect the generally close working relationship between supervisors and candidates. Apart from regular participation in colloquia, individually supervised doctoral studies do not necessarily require a more institutionalised exchange between doctoral candidates, but of course, candidates will have access to courses where they will be able to gain additional skills. The first step towards an individually supervised doctorate is to identify a potential supervisor and contact her or him directly. Support The Welcome Center offers extensive advice and practical support in the preparation and realisation of doctoral studies in Bamberg. It provides international scholars with information and tailored assistance in all matters related to the non-subject-specific aspects of their stay. The Welcome Center is meant to serve as a service unit connecting university departments and various university and non-university institutions. It offers the University's international PhD candidates personalised support, beginning even before their arrival in Bamberg. The Graduate Centre “Trimberg Research Academy” supports PhD candidates and postdocs with individual consultations about academic careers and opportunities for scholarships and external funding. It also offers a qualification programme to develop transferable skills. Recognising the difficulties that a highly mobile life can bring to couples and families, several institutions at the University of Bamberg work closely together to support newly arrived doctoral students and their partners and children during the settling-in phase.