How to Apply for the PhD Program in Political Science at the University of Salzburg
The PhD program in Political Science at the University of Salzburg is highly selective and offers a challenging but rewarding experience that seeks to meet the highest international standards in the profession.
Prospective students are expected to have a Master’s degree or equivalent diploma in Political Science or a related subject. Applicants whose previous degree is not in Political Science are still encouraged to apply but may be asked to undertake additional coursework in Political Science the extent of which will be determined upon an evaluation of a candidate’s full academic record and in consultation with the student’s supervisor.
While there is no predetermined list of research topics that is endorsed by the department as suitable for a dissertation, prospective students should closely familiarize themselves with the work and ongoing research of the full professors in the department one of whom is likely to serve as the principal supervisor. Applicants matching the research program, interests, and methodological approaches of faculty members will generally have a better chance of finding a supervisor. Prospective students are welcome to contact faculty members if they have questions or hope to work with individual professors.
If you think that you meet the above criteria, please contact the department’s coordinator of academic programs Dr. Franz Kok (), and supply the following information:
- A CV that is comprehensive with respect to information allowing us to assess an applicant’s academic potential (e.g., current degree(s), relevant employment, past coursework along with grades, academic distinctions, information on research experiences and possible publications, method and language skills, etc.).
- A brief statement of purpose of 1-2 pages that indicates the intended topic of research, formulates a clear research question, and sketches a way in which the planned research is to be approached theoretically and methodologically.
- A description of no more than one page of an earlier research project such as the MA thesis, which should include the research question and describe some of the key theoretical assumptions, methodology, and principal findings.
Please note that the above guidelines pertain only to the Department of Political Science and that all applicants must also meet the admissions criteria for doctoral students by the University of Salzburg, specifically those set forth by the Faculty of Cultural and Social Sciences. For details please see here.
