PhD Programs

The University offers research-based, internationally oriented PhD programs: 

• Migration Studies (since 2015)
• Regenerative Medicine (since 2015)
• Technology, Innovation, and Cohesive Societies (since 2022)
• Applied Evidence Synthesis in Health Research (since 2023)
• Interdisciplinary Studies of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (since 2025)

Mission and Objectives 

PhD students participate in research projects as early-stage researchers. As well as academic development, particular emphasis is placed on acquiring methodological and interdisciplinary skills. 

Structure and Organisation 

The PhD programs comprise:

• independent academic research within the framework of the dissertation project
• compulsory doctoral seminars and colloquia
• complementary skills development in line with international research standards
• regular evaluation and reflection tools

A multi-stage system ensures high quality: 

1. Academic supervision
• Supervision by researchers with proven academic credentials
• Involvement of a PhD committee that oversees the entire dissertation project

2. Formal project launch
• Written proposal for the dissertation project
• Presentation and assessment by the PhD committee

3. Continuous academic development
• Half-yearly progress reports
• Annual feedback sessions as part of PhD colloquia

4. Clear separation of supervision and assessment
• Review of the dissertation by two independent reviewers, one of whom must be external.

5. International peer review of the research environment and dissertation performance
• Integration of the dissertation project into externally funded projects
• Publication of the results in peer-reviewed journals

6. Final examination
• Oral final examination (Rigorosum)

Duration of Study

The PhD programs at the University for Continuing Education Krems require at least three years or six semesters of study.

Target groups, Admission Requirements

Target groups are the next generation of scientists who want to undertake original scientific research in accordance with international standards. The prerequisite for admission is a master’s degree.