Berlin School of Economics PhD Programme
Fully-funded structured doctoral programme in economics, accounting, finance, and management across leading Berlin research institutions.
Best for:Best for outstanding master's graduates in economics, business, or quantitative fields seeking a structured, fully-funded doctoral programme in a major European research hub.
Overview
The Berlin School of Economics offers a structured PhD programme that unites Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin with eight partner institutions including Freie Universität Berlin, Technische Universität Berlin, University of Potsdam, ESMT Berlin, Hertie School, and WZB Berlin Social Science Center. Students choose one of four tracks — Accounting, Economics, Finance, or Management — and progress through a two-to-three-semester course phase earning 90 ECTS, followed by a three-year research phase leading to a doctoral thesis. The programme combines rigorous academic training with applied research opportunities in the professional environments of participating institutions. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, policy institutions, and international organisations, supported by mentoring, career services, and a vibrant research community.
What you'll do
- Complete coursework totalling 90 ECTS during the initial two-to-three-semester course phase
- Deepen knowledge in economic theory, applied economics, business studies, econometrics, and economic policy
- Conduct original doctoral research and write a doctoral thesis over a three-year research phase
- Participate in workshops, seminars, and research activities at participating institutions
- Engage with the collaborative research community across Berlin-Brandenburg economic research institutions
- Optionally undertake self-organised internships during the course phase to gain applied experience
- Attend international guest lectures and collaborate on projects with German and international partners
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Economics, Business Studies, or a related field (e.g. Industrial Engineering, Statistics, quantitative social sciences) with sufficient background in Economics or Business Studies
Degree offered: PhD (Dr rer pol / Dr rer oec)
Language: English proficiency recommended (TOEFL or IELTS); German not required. Non-native English speakers without a degree from an English-speaking country should demonstrate proficiency.
Instruction: English (all courses and general working language)
- Master's degree in Economics or Business Studies (or related quantitative field)
- Exceptional academic performance in prior studies
- Sufficient background in Economics or Business Studies if coming from a related discipline
- Strong quantitative and analytical abilities
- Open to highly qualified post-graduate students from around the world
- Applicants with a Bachelor's degree may apply if concurrently applying for a fast-track Master's programme in Berlin
- No nationality or residency restrictions mentioned
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: Middle of January (exact date varies; check website for updates) (Europe/Berlin)
Applications must be submitted through the Berlin School of Economics online application portal, which opens during the annual application period. Prospective applicants should consult the programme website for the exact deadline and portal access.
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