PhD in Social Sciences in Europe

This doctoral program in agrarian and regional economics spans three years and combines theoretical coursework with intensive research. It includes courses in economics, research methodology, English for research professionals, and elective subjects such as multivariate methods and economic modeling. Students must develop a dissertation, conduct data collection and analysis, and publish in international indexed journals and conferences. The program emphasizes scholarly communication, with regular presentation of research findings and submission of scientific publications throughout the studies.

To apply for this doctoral program, applicants must hold a master's degree in Economics, Management, or Business Administration. Those with a degree in another field may also apply but must pass an entrance exam. English proficiency is required, with a minimum IELTS score of 6.0, TOEFL score of 547, or TOEFL-iBT score of 76. These requirements ensure candidates are prepared for the research and academic demands of the program.

Delivered jointly with two partner institutions, this doctoral program involves in-depth study of social structures, relationships, and cultural processes. It fosters critical thinking and advanced analytical and methodological skills, equipping students to conduct independent research and generate new insights in sociology, while also developing the ability to analyze complex social phenomena and understand the dynamics of contemporary society. Current research areas include risk and security studies, social resilience, and risk communication, as well as civil society and social innovation.

Core coursework covers classical and contemporary sociological theories alongside sociological research methodology and modern research methods, providing essential grounding in the field. Students can further individualize their studies through a wide range of elective modules, including topics such as aging in contemporary sociological discourse, the anthropology of post-socialism, demography, environmental sociology, ethnicity and nationalism, family sociology and fertility studies, migration and social change, public opinion surveys, social movements and protest, social policy, social stratification and mobility, the sociology of religion, culture, education, health, mediated communication, and work and organizations, statistical methods in the social sciences, the information society, gender studies, theories of regional development, and the welfare state beyond Europe.

Alongside these subject-specific modules, students build core research competencies through a dedicated set of skills modules, including academic and technical research writing, design thinking in research, digital tools for research writing and publication, research data management, research ethics, grant management for research projects, science communication for public audiences, and systematic literature review methods.

Applicants must hold a master's degree or an equivalent higher education qualification, along with prior scientific research experience or participation in research activities, and English proficiency at the B2 to C2 level.

Admission is based on a weighted competition score combining the applicant's scientific publications, scored on a ten-point scale (10%), an assessment of their proposed scientific research project (30%), the grade point average from the diploma supplement of their master's degree or equivalent qualification (30%), and a motivational interview (30%).

This PhD program prepares a new generation of scholars in the social sciences, particularly sociology, for independent academic research and teaching at the postgraduate level, following international educational standards. It is offered across three tracks: Sociology, International Studies, and Interdisciplinary Social Research. The doctoral school welcomes students, faculty, and research topics without discrimination based on ethnic or cultural background, political views, disability, gender identity, self-expression, or sexual orientation.

The program examines social phenomena and their interrelationships within their cultural, historical, economic, and social contexts, drawing on a diversity of methodological approaches that combine quantitative and qualitative methods. It emphasizes research-oriented, interdisciplinary training compatible with international social science doctoral programs, close individual mentoring, and opportunities for shorter study periods abroad. Students are expected to conduct independent research leading to innovative solutions, present their findings internationally according to scientific communication standards, and apply their results for the benefit of society.

Graduates go on to work as research experts, university teachers, and training specialists across the theoretical and practical sides of social policy. Typical roles include university professor, social researcher, scientific expert, political analyst, political expert, social policy analyst, media expert, and international policy expert.

Applicants must hold an MA or MSc in social sciences or a related field, or another university-level qualification relevant to their research topic, and pass an admission interview. Hungarian citizens must apply through a separate national application portal rather than the standard online system. For the International Studies track specifically, research plans are reviewed in advance for thematic relevance, and only applicants whose proposals fit the program's scope are invited to interview.

English proficiency must reach at least B2 level in both speaking and writing (CEFR B2, IELTS 6, or TOEFL 72); a university degree or high school diploma is sufficient proof if the applicant's previous education was conducted in English. Completing the program also requires an additional intermediate-level state examination or equivalent in a non-Hungarian foreign language, though a native language other than English may fulfill this requirement, demonstrated through a university degree or high school diploma.

Required documents include an application form, the master's degree certificate, a transcript of records, a CV, a motivation letter, a research work plan, a passport copy, a language certificate, and a reference work of no more than 6,000 words, such as workshop work, a shortened thesis, or a published paper; a letter of recommendation, a list of publications, a supervisor's statement, and records of awards from professional competitions may also be submitted but are optional. The oral entrance exam, conducted online, assesses the applicant's general and professional knowledge and interest and is a prerequisite for admission; final rankings combine this evaluation with an assessment of the applicant's submitted academic record.

This doctoral program is focused on advanced interdisciplinary research in social sciences applied to healthcare, policy, and management. It includes a significant compulsory research component requiring original independent research, participation in scientific conferences, and at least two publications in internationally peer-reviewed journals (or one publication and one monograph). The educational component covers philosophy of science, research methods, scientific writing, higher education pedagogy, and field-specific doctoral exams. Students undertake multiple stages of independent research and teaching activity. A selection of restricted and elective courses allows further specialization in areas such as communication theory, health management, legal systems, and social processes.

This doctoral program leads to a Doctor of Science (PhD) degree in health care and lasts four years. Applicants must hold a master’s degree in medicine, pharmacy, psychology, or a related field. Those applying with psychology degrees must demonstrate foundational knowledge in several psychology subfields. A minimum English proficiency level of B2 is required. Admission is based on an evaluation of a planned doctoral thesis abstract, prior scientific work, and a formal defense before a committee. Application documents include educational diplomas, a signed CV with scientific work, a supervisor’s CV (if applicable), proof of English skills, and an abstract signed by the applicant and supervisor(s).

This joint PhD program is designed for candidates seeking to deepen their expertise in economic theory, financial systems, global integration, or agricultural policy. The curriculum includes courses in econometrics, macroeconomic theory, institutional economics, and research methodology, along with elective subjects tailored to each student’s research focus. Candidates must publish peer-reviewed articles, attend international conferences, complete a research internship, and successfully defend their dissertation.

This joint doctoral program is a rigorous, research-intensive pathway designed for candidates with a master’s degree and demonstrated scientific potential. Applicants must submit a comprehensive portfolio, including a scientific research project that outlines a clearly defined problem, objectives, methodology, and expected contributions. Selection is based on a competitive score combining prior academic performance, publication record, research project quality, and a motivational interview. Proficiency in English at C1 level is required.

This PhD program provides advanced research training across various fields, aiming to equip candidates with solid theoretical and methodological foundations and experience in conducting original scientific research. The degree is awarded after completing the required coursework, an academic dissertation, a trial lecture, and a public defense. The program is structured as three years of full-time study (180 ECTS), with a coursework component of at least 30 ECTS, including core courses in the chosen specialization, mandatory courses in philosophy of science and research methodology, and elective courses. Specialization tracks are available in global development and planning, information systems, public administration, and sociology and social work, allowing candidates to focus on their specific research interests.

Applicants to this PhD program must have a master’s degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject, typically with at least 90 ECTS credits in the chosen area, including at least 30 ECTS from advanced courses. A grade of B or better on the master’s thesis and as an overall average is required. Sufficient prior knowledge in social-scientific methodology and proficiency in academic English (written and spoken) are also necessary. English requirements can be fulfilled by various recognized tests, or certain educational backgrounds in English-speaking or Nordic countries. The application process involves an interview and a project description, usually up to 10 pages. Some candidates may need to complete additional exams or assignments if lacking in specific subject areas or methodology. Residency at the university is generally expected during the program, unless otherwise agreed.