Doctoral Programme in Social Sciences
The Doctoral Programme in Social Sciences provides an academic education of international standards and entails independent academic work in the doctoral candidate’s field of research. The programme embraces the entire range of epistemological, methodological and theoretical approaches that are employed at the Faculty of Social Sciences. Supervised by top researchers in the social sciences, doctoral candidates receive research training and write a doctoral thesis in the fields of communication, demography, development studies, nursing science, political science, science and technology studies, social and cultural anthropology, and sociology. Benefits such as funding for research and mobility, and career development options are open to members of the Vienna Doctoral School of Social Sciences.
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Dissertation fields:
- Communication
- Demography
- Development Studies
- Nursing Science
- Political Science
- Science and Technology Studies
- Social and Cultural Anthropology
- Sociology
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Key facts:
- Average Duration of Study: 6,4 (ViDSS members: 5,4 years)
- Academic Degree: Dr. phil.
- Study Load: 30 (ECTS)
- Language: German and English
- 60 to 70 new doctoral candidates enroll each year
- 40 to 50 graduates per year
Admission requirements
Admission to the doctoral programme is possible throughout the year.
Supervision:
When applying for admission to the doctoral programme in Social Sciences, you need to submit a written indication by a member of the Faculty who is allowed to supervise a doctoral thesis which states their willingness to supervise your doctoral project.
We recommend that you discuss your expectations with your future supervisor early in the process to ensure that you both have a clear understanding of the planned doctoral thesis project. You can use this questionnaire (PDF) as a basis for the discussion.
Required Documents:
- Certificates, Transcripts of record and Diploma supplement of your previous studies (BA and MA or diploma studies)
- Academic CV, Description of the intended doctoral project, Motivation letter – to the guidelines
- References: Please list two references in your CV (email contact obligatory)
- Language proof (optional)
- Passport/personal ID
After graduation
Graduates of the Doctoral Programme in Social Sciences enjoy excellent career prospects in both the academic and non-academic sectors. Graduates work at leading Austrian and international universities and research institutions, in public administration at national or EU level, and at NGOs, opinion research organisations and private-sector companies.
Would you like to consult with experts?
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Doctoral Admission
Questions about admission to the doctoral programme?
The Doctoral Admission Office can help with information on the application process and admission requirements.
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Doctoral School
Your Doctoral School supports you with information on the programme, its structure, and a wide range of training and support opportunities.
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Study Service Center (SSC)
For administrative questions during your studies – such as course registration, recognition of external coursework, or the public presentation – please contact the Student Service Center.
Online information sessions
Join our regular online information sessions to learn more about doing a doctorate at the University of Vienna.
In the sessions, we cover key topics such as admission procedures and requirements, funding opportunities, and visa and residence requirements. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions and connect directly with our experts.
