Studying Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

The Ph.D. (also PhD, Doctor of Philosophy) is the highest postgraduate degree that can be achieved at universities. People awarded with a PhD are normally allowed to have a teaching position at a university.

The Ph.D. is a scientific research doctorate or doctorate studies with a duration of typically three to five years. Despite its name, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is not limited to philosophy related studies but is awarded in most disciplines. The discipline name is usually attached with an "in" to the title (e.g. Ph.D. in Economics).

Typically, a Ph.D. degree is pursued after completion of a Master's programme. However, in some cases it is already possible to pursue a PhD after achieving a Bachelor's degree. In the UK, Ph.D. candiates usually enrol for a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) course first.

After a short period of typically one year, the supervisor decides upon an acceptance to the Ph.D. programme.