FAQ
In which fields can I pursue a Ph.D. at the Faculty of Human Sciences?
As part of an individual doctoral program, you can pursue a doctorate in the following fields at our faculty:
- Educational Sciences
- Pedagogy
- Health Sciences
- Elementary Education
- Inclusive Education
- Cognitive Sciences
- Art
- Linguistics
- Music
- Psychology
In addition, there are two structured doctoral programs:
What is the difference between an individual doctoral program and a structured doctoral program?
Most doctoral programs in the German higher education system are conducted on an individual basis. This means that the doctoral candidate carries out the research independently, working only in collaboration with their supervisors. It does not matter whether you are actually working alone or participating in a larger research project as part of a working group. Doctoral degrees earned as part of a qualifying position (doctoral fellowship) are also generally considered individual doctoral degrees.
In contrast, structured doctoral programs are formally organized degree programs (similar to bachelor’s and master’s programs) that lead to a doctoral degree. In addition to the doctoral colloquium and meetings with supervisors, these programs typically require students to complete mandatory and/or elective courses. Our department offers two structured doctoral programs (Clinical Exercise Science and International Experimental and Clinical Linguistics), both of which are also available as fast-track PhD programs.
What are the requirements for a doctoral degree?
To be eligible for a doctoral program, you generally need to have successfully completed a university degree in your intended field of study, comprising at least 300 credit points. This typically involves a combination of a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. Alternatively, a completed Diplom, Magister or Staatsexamen degree program with at least eight required semesters is also accepted as a prerequisite.
A degree in a related field may also qualify as a prerequisite for a doctoral program. It is important that you are familiar with the key methods and approaches in your field. The respective department determines whether you meet the academic requirements for a doctoral program.
For the Fast-Track Ph.D. programs in Clinical Exercise Science and International Experimental and Clinical Linguistics, all you need is a completed bachelor’s degree in the respective field.
What is the maximum length of time I can spend working on my dissertation?
The short answer is: there is no maximum duration for a doctoral program. In theory, you can spend as long as you like working on your dissertation.
HOWEVER: There are time limits on certain aspects related to your doctoral studies. Under the Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetzt, WissZeitVG), you are generally only permitted to hold fixed-term academic positions for a total of six years between the completion of your master‘s degree and your doctoral degree. Since almost all research positions are fixed-term, this effectively means that you may only work in a doctoral position for six years. The same time limit applies to doctoral students: You may be enrolled as a doctoral student for a maximum of 12 semesters.
Therefore, time considerations should still be a factor in your decision-making process.
When do I need to register for my doctoral program?
Since the doctoral program is an ongoing process and it is often impossible to pinpoint an exact start date, there is no specific deadline for registration. However, you may not submit a dissertation without being registered. Furthermore, you can only enroll at the university and enjoy the benefits of enrollment if you have registered beforehand. Therefore, we recommend that you register as early as possible. You can find registration information here.
Is registering for a doctoral program the same as enrolling as a doctoral student?
No.
What is the difference between applying for a doctoral program and enrolling as a doctoral student?
The basis for your doctoral program is your registration with the faculty Ph.D. management (see above). Once you have registered for the program, you are considered a doctoral candidate and may commence the doctoral procedure upon completion of your dissertation.
In addition to registering, you can also enroll as a doctoral student. Enrollment is optional and is done through PULS. By enrolling, you will enjoy the benefits of student status. For doctoral students who have a full scholarship, enrollment may also be advisable in order to qualify for student health insurance. For international doctoral students, enrollment is also a prerequisite for obtaining a residence permit.
What doctoral degrees can I earn?
The Faculty of Human Sciences awards two doctoral degrees of equal standing: the degree of Doktor der Philosophie (Dr. phil.) and the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). The Dr. phil. degree is awarded with a German-language certificate, while the Ph.D. degree is awarded with an English-language certificate. The language in which you wrote your dissertation is not a determining factor. You are free to choose between the two degrees.