Hertie School Of Governance PhD Program In Germany For International Students 2025/2026

About the Hertie School of Governance PhD Program

The Hertie School of Governance, located in Berlin, Germany, invites outstanding international candidates to apply for its fully funded Doctoral Programme in Governance for the 2025/2026 academic year. This prestigious program provides a unique interdisciplinary research environment and is tailored for individuals eager to contribute to groundbreaking research in the field of governance.

Governance as a field of study intersects with disciplines such as economics, law, sociology, political science, public administration, and management, offering both theoretical and practical insights into complex societal issues. This doctoral program fosters expertise in qualitative and quantitative methodologies and equips scholars to address global governance challenges from comparative and international perspectives.

The program commences each September and admits a small cohort of about 10 PhD students to ensure personalized guidance and robust academic support. Students will join a dynamic community of researchers and practitioners dedicated to pushing the boundaries of governance studies.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Hertie School of Governance Doctoral Program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Academic Excellence:
- Hold a strong Master’s degree (or equivalent) in one of the disciplines central to governance studies, such as economics, law, political science, sociology, public administration, management, or related fields.
Research Ambition:
- Demonstrate a strong interest in understanding fundamental problems and patterns of governance through advanced academic research.
Interdisciplinary Openness:
- Be open to interdisciplinary research and willing to engage with comparative perspectives, recognizing that governance and public policy issues often span multiple academic disciplines.

Methodological Expertise:
- Possess proficiency in qualitative and/or quantitative research methodologies, as the program places a strong emphasis on rigorous methodological training.

Selection Criteria

The selection process for the doctoral program is highly competitive and involves multiple stages:

Initial Screening:
- Applications are reviewed to ensure that candidates meet the program’s eligibility criteria and have submitted all required documents.
Comprehensive Review:
- Applications that pass the initial screening are evaluated by two internal reviewers. This assessment considers several factors, including:
  - The quality, originality, and feasibility of the research proposal.
  - Academic achievements as reflected in transcripts and references.
  - The candidate’s motivation and fit with the program, as outlined in their CV and personal statement.
Advisor Matching:
- Reviewers identify potential dissertation advisors based on the candidate’s proposed research topic and ensure alignment with the research interests of the Hertie School’s faculty.

Benefit of the Hertie School of Governance PhD Program

Admitted candidates benefit from a comprehensive package designed to support their academic journey:

No Tuition Fees:
- The Hertie School does not charge tuition for its doctoral programs, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede access to high-quality education.

Living Stipend:
- Ten fully funded stipends are available to support living expenses. Each stipend amounts to €1,250 per month, which includes €100 for research and travel-related expenses. This funding is provided for a duration of three years, the standard length of the doctoral program.
Administrative Support:
- The Student Affairs team provides assistance with administrative matters, including visa applications, residence permits, health insurance, and more, to ensure a smooth transition to life in Berlin.
Academic Environment:
- Scholars gain access to a vibrant academic community, state-of-the-art research facilities, and opportunities to collaborate with leading experts in governance studies.

Enrolling in the Hertie School’s Doctoral Program in Governance means joining a leading institution that emphasizes cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world impact. With its focus on addressing the most pressing governance challenges, the program prepares scholars to become thought leaders in academia, policy-making, and beyond.

How to Apply

NOTE: The deadline for submitting applications is 1st February 2025. Successful applicants are typically notified within two months of submitting their applications.

To apply for the program, follow these steps:

Review the Research Areas:
- Before submitting an application, carefully review the list of potential supervisors to ensure that your proposed research aligns with the faculty’s expertise. Note that the list may be updated between September 2024 and January 2025 as new professors join the school.
Prepare Your Application:
- Ensure that your application includes all required documents and meets the program’s stated guidelines.
Avoid Premature Contact:
- Applicants are advised not to contact potential supervisors before submitting their application.