Doctoral Studies at Leibniz University Hannover
A doctorate demonstrates advanced academic skills, usually attained by means of completing a written doctoral thesis in combination with an oral examination and resulting in the award of a doctoral degree. It is awarded in a specific academic field, in the form of a doctoral certificate. Doctoral graduates are capable of undertaking academic work and independent research. In Germany, faculties or universities, as well as equivalent higher education institutions (in some federal states) are entitled to award doctorates.
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Initial steps towards obtaining a doctorate
The procedure is governed by the doctoral regulations of the relevant faculty.
The general process for commencing a doctorate requires independently searching for a professor prepared to supervise the doctoral thesis. The subject is determined in agreement with the supervising professor.
For general questions regarding doctoral studies, please contact the Graduate Academy at Leibniz University Hannover..
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Forms of doctoral studies
In Germany, the traditional route towards obtaining a doctoral degree is an independent doctorate. In recent years, there have been efforts to promote structured programmes such as doctoral studies undertaken within the scope of graduate schools or research training groups.
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Admission and enrolment
Formal admission to doctoral studies comprises two steps:
- First, doctoral candidates must be accepted by the faculty. Accepted candidates must register their thesis via the responsible faculty body in good time. Required documents are listed in the doctoral regulations as well as on the faculty websites. The responsible faculty body decides whether admission is granted and, if necessary, determines conditions for admission. Applicants will then be notified whether their application has been successful.
- Subsequently, doctoral candidates may enrol via the Admissions Office. Please use the online application form for degree programmes with unrestricted admission.
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Financial aspects and funding
- Doctoral candidates may complete their doctorate within the scope of a position as a member of research staff. Vacancies can be found in the job portal.
- In addition, there are various grants available for doctoral candidates.
- Furthermore, a doctorate may be obtained in the context of part-time studies or self-funded doctoral research in close cooperation with the supervising members of staff. International doctoral candidates should check the regulations specified in their residence permit. Contact person for international doctoral candidates
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Career prospects for postdoctoral researchers
There are numerous career prospects for postdoctoral researchers - both within and outside of academia.
