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Doctoral Studies

Desk of a Doctoral Student at the Library Image Credit: Julia Oesterreich

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The Department of Law offers German and international graduates the opportunity to earn a doctoral degree in law.

In order to get admitted for doctoral studies, candidates need a 4 years' law degree or a law degree which is considered as equivalent to the German first legal State Examination. In addition to that, they must have passed their degree with a grade which is equivalent to the German "Vollbefriedigend / Fully Satisfactory". If that degree is from a country other than Germany, applicants will be required to take two courses in German private law, criminal law, and/or public law and to pass a written final examination in these subjects. The two courses in German private law, criminal law, and/or public law may be replaced by a German LL.M. degree with a grade of 2,5 or better.

In exceptional circumstances, an admission with a university degree other than law is possible, if the overall grade of that non-law degree equals the German grade "Vollbefriedigend / Fully Satisfactory". In addition, candidates with a non-legal background are required to pass two courses in German private law, two courses in German criminal law, and two courses in German public law and a paper in either private law, criminal law, or public law.

Furthermore, each candidate must show a written agreement of a professor of this Law Department that s/he is willing to supervise his/her dissertation. In order to obtain such an agreement, applicants are required to contact a professor with the same research interests. A few professors have published their individual requirements on their websites. In general, professors accept applications on a rolling basis with a letter of motivation, a CV, a project proposal, and a transcript and degree certificate.

All doctoral students at the Law Department are expected to submit their dissertations in German. Only in very exceptional circumstances, if the topic of the doctoral thesis requires the use of a foreign language, dissertations can be written in a language other than German.

Doctoral studies at the Law Department are free from tuition. PhD students only have to pay the regular student fees and contributions .

Related Links

• Article about the Doctorate in Germany on academics.com
• DAAD Brocure "Doing a PhD" (in Germany)
• Contact Person for Admission
• Doctoral Regulations
• Enrollment as a Doctoral Student

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Doctoral study with a foreign university degree

If you have earned a Law degree from a foreign university which is equivalent to the German state examination, you may apply for admission to a PhD programme in Münster and earn a doctorate in Law. Prior to gaining admission, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient knowledge of German law. You can meet this requirement by completing a one-year master’s degree programme in German Law and achieving a final grade of at least “ magna cum laude ”.

Once you have met these prerequisites, you may seek contact with a professor at the Faculty of Law who would be willing to supervise your doctoral project.

For more information on doctoral procedures, please contact the Dean’s Office or send an email to [email protected] .

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Professors at the faculty offer the possibility to do postgraduate doctoral studies with the aim to be awarded a „Doctor juris“ (Dr. jur., equivalent to Ph.D.). According tot he Doctoral Regulations, there is a general possibility to undertake such studies for lawyers who have not completed their studies in Germany. However, there are certain formal requirements that you should be aware of. In particular, it is not possible to register individually for doctoral studies without the approval and support of a supervisor, who must be one of the professors of the Faculty. We advise you to get in touch with professors if you are interested in pursuing a German Dr. jur. programme to see whether they have the capacity and interest to supervise you.

Inform yourself here about the possibilities regarding the PhD-Programs (available only in German).

The Faculty offers two German languaged LL.M. programmes to enhance knowledge in specific areas. One is in intellectual property law, the other in medical law. You may find further information here  (available only in german).

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How to Apply for a PhD in Germany: Programs, Funding, & FAQs

Germany is an excellent destination for both young and experienced researchers. 

The European country is third behind the U.S. and China for research & development expenditure . Plus, it is home to some of the most prestigious (and affordable!) research universities in the world.

If you’re considering doing a PhD in Germany, you will need to follow these steps:

The main steps to doing a PhD in Germany:

• Find a PhD Program and a Supervisor
• Decide Between Individual and Structured PhD Programs
• Meet All Requirements & Prepare Your Application
• Apply for Doctoral Studies
• Secure Funding
• Get a Student Visa or Resident Permit
• Arrive in Germany and Begin Your PhD Program

Why Pursue a PhD in Germany?

If you’re not yet sure if you should choose Germany for your PhD studies, here are some compelling reasons why you should consider it:

• Top-tier universities. Four German universities are ranked in the top 100 global universities, and many more are in the top 200.
• Large international student community. Germany welcomes a diverse and thriving international student community. Over 458,210 international students are currently studying in the country.
• Quality research institutions. There are over a thousand publicly funded research institutions (universities, universities of applied sciences, research institutes, businesses, and government bodies) that you can choose from in Germany.
• High investment in research and development. Germany’s public expenditure in the research and development sector reached a record high of 112.6 billion euros in 2021.
• Strong economy. Germany is known for its strong and stable economy. After completing your PhD, there are plenty of employment opportunities in the academic, business, and research sectors.

How to Apply for a PhD in Germany

From finding the perfect program for you to submitting your application and starting your PhD, here are all the steps you need to take:

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1. Find a PhD Program and a Supervisor

After all the years of studying leading up to this step, you most likely have a few areas of interest you want to do your research in.

This is the first important step: define your research focus by considering your interests and academic background. If you need more help, you can consult online resources from research universities. Or, even better, you can discuss your decision to pursue a PhD with academic communities online or offline and seek advice from current PhD students in Germany who can tell you more about their individual experiences.

If you already know what your research direction is, you can begin searching for suitable programs right ahead. 

• The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has an extensive list of current opportunities, which you can look up at the  DAAD PhD Database . 
• Another option is to research universities in Germany individually to find the newest opportunities and offerings at each institution.

You will also have to find a supervisor. The best way to do this is to go to university websites and find faculty directories with profiles of professors and their research fields/current projects. Contact professors whose work aligns with your interests via email to inquire about supervision opportunities.

> Search PhD programs from 31,000 research institutions listed on the GERiT database .

Types of PhD Programs in Germany

There are two different paths you can take when pursuing a PhD: individual PhD programs and structured PhD programs. Each comes with its own set of advantages and requirements.

2. Verify That You Meet All Requirements & Prepare the Application

Requirements and application documents to apply for a PhD in Germany are specific to the institution and research area you’re applying to. But, as a general guideline, you should prepare the following:

• Academic degree recognized in Germany. You need a master’s degree or a German state examination (Staatsexamen) in a field relevant to the PhD program to qualify.
• Copy of master’s thesis. Submit a copy of your master’s thesis. The work should demonstrate your research skills and the depth of your academic work.
• Research proposal. Craft a clear and detailed research proposal that includes your intended research topic, objectives, methodology, and significance. 
• Statement of purpose. Write a statement of purpose why you want to do a PhD in your chosen field, your academic and career goals, and how this program aligns with them.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV). Prepare a detailed CV highlighting your academic achievements, research experience, relevant coursework, publications, and any other qualifications.
• Proof of language proficiency. Depending on the language of instruction, you may have to provide proof of language proficiency in English and/or German. You can do this with certificates like TestDaF and DSH for German or TOEFL and IELTS for English. Proof of previous studies in the language is also sufficient.
• Academic references. Provide contact information or recommendation letters from professors/ academic advisors who can attest to your academic abilities and potential.
• Predoctoral examination. Some programs ask that you pass a predoctoral examination as part of the application process.

3. Apply for Doctoral Studies

After finding a suitable PhD program and mentor, and making sure your academic qualifications are recognized, you can send in your application.

You can send in your application online or by post, depending on the hosting institution’s preferences. To make sure, check their guidelines and specifications. Admission committees are selective, so you may also have to attend an interview soon in the application process.

4. Secure Funding

You must demonstrate access to a minimum of €992 per month (€11,908 per year) to meet visa requirements and live comfortably while you’re in Germany. You can prove this through an admission agreement or relevant PhD contract, or you can open a blocked account with individual funds.

There are many ways to support yourself financially while pursuing a PhD in Germany:

• PhD scholarships. DAAD offers the highest number of doctoral scholarships. PhD students get an average monthly stipend of €1,139. 
• Paid PhD positions. Many universities and research institutions offer paid PhD positions in Germany. You will work on specific research projects on a contract and receive a salary.
• Research associate positions. You can also work as a research associate in a university, research institution, or company and receive a salary as compensation.
• Part-time jobs. Some PhD students/researchers work part-time jobs that are not related to their studies for extra income.

> Read more about the costs of studying in Germany.

> Discover PhD scholarships in Germany.

5. Get a Student Visa or Resident Permit

If the institution confirms your place in the PhD program, next in line is applying for a student visa or residence permit. The requirements for a German PhD visa or permit can vary depending on your nationality and circumstances: 

Visa Requirements

If you’re a citizen of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you don’t need a special permit or visa for a PhD in Germany. You can enter the country for research and work purposes with a valid passport or ID card.

Otherwise, you will need a visa and/or a residence permit to do your PhD in Germany. Nationals of some countries, including the United States, Australia, Israel, Japan, and Korea, don’t need a visa but must apply for a residence permit.

Depending on the circumstances, you need one of the following visas:

• Study visa. If you’re pursuing a full-time doctoral program.
• Research visa. If your focus is on research and you have a formal affiliation with a research institution in Germany.
• EU Blue Card. If your PhD contract pays a gross annual salary of at least €45,300 (or €41,041.80 in certain professions), you can apply for an EU Blue Card . This is a special residence title for international academics and other professionals.

Residence Permit Requirements

If you come to Germany on a visa, you will need to apply for a residence permit within three months of arrival. This also applies to nationals of countries outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland who are exempt from the visa requirement.

You can apply for one of the following residence permits:

• Study permit. If you’re accepted into a PhD program at a German university, apply for a study-based residence permit. It lasts up to two years, extendable.
• Research permit. If you’re a researcher with the right qualifications for doctoral programs, apply for a research permit. This requires a contract with a research institution for your project.
• EU Blue Card. With a PhD offer that has a minimum salary of €45,300 per year, or €41,041.80 for some bottleneck professions , you may be eligible for the EU Blue Card. Apply for this permit if you meet the criteria.

> For more specific information tailored to your situation, we recommend contacting the German embassy or consulate in your home country. You can also use this visa navigator.

6. Arrive in Germany and Begin Your PhD Program

The most exciting step of all is near—time to unpack your bags and begin your life as a PhD student or researcher in Germany. Once you’re settled in, there are some formalities you need to take care of.

The international office at the university or another representative can guide you best on this. However, here are some of the main things you need to do once you arrive in Germany:

Register Your Residence

Shortly after your arrival, you must register your residence at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt). This is mandatory, and you typically have a window of two weeks to complete this process. 

Get Health Insurance

Everyone in Germany is required by law to have health insurance coverage. This includes international PhD students. Depending on the source of your funding, you are eligible for one of the following health insurance coverages: 

• Doctoral candidates with an employment contract are automatically insured with a state-regulated health insurance provider (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung-GKV) in most cases.
• Doctoral candidates without an employment contract (with a fellowship or private funding) can choose between:
• Voluntary health insurance coverage with a state-regulated provider.
• Coverage with a private health insurance company.

There are some exceptions in which you can use your insurance from your home country. These apply to students from a European Union (EU) country or other countries with social security agreements with Germany.

Open a Bank Account 

You should open a German bank account as soon as possible. Most financial transactions in Germany, including receiving your stipend or salary, are done through a German bank account.

Enroll at the University

If your PhD program is part of a university degree, you need to enroll as a student at the university. Follow your university’s instructions to submit the necessary documents to the enrollment office. These usually include your admission letter, passport, proof of health insurance, and semester fee.

After you complete this process, you will receive an Enrollment Certificate (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung). This is a very important document that you most likely need in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

There’s a lot of planning involved if you’re considering doing a PhD, especially if it’s in a foreign country. We’re sure you’ve got more questions, and we’re here to help.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Germany?

A PhD in Germany usually takes between three to six years to complete. Just like in other countries, it can take longer or shorter than expected, depending on several factors. The type of PhD you choose (structured programs can be more rigid), your subject area, and individual progress can all make a difference in the time it takes to get a PhD in Germany.

Are PhD Programs in Germany Tuition-Free?

The majority of PhD programs in Germany are tuition-free, at least for the first six semesters. However, if need to enroll at a university for your PhD, there is a small semester fee you need to cover. The fee can be higher or lower depending on the university, but it usually falls within the range of €100 to €350.

Is German Mandatory to Pursue a PhD in Germany?

You don’t necessarily have to know German to do a PhD in Germany. In fact, most PhD programs in Germany are in English, especially in fields such as science, engineering, and humanities. In these programs, you can both write your thesis and communicate with your advisor and peers in English.

There is of course the chance that the program you’ve chosen is in German or requires knowledge of German (in most cases, in addition to English). In this case, you have to prove your proficiency through a recognized language certificate or proof of previous studies in German.

Even if German isn’t mandatory, we strongly encourage you to learn the basics. They will be super helpful in daily interactions and getting accustomed to life in Germany.

How Much Does a PhD Student Earn in Germany?

Most PhD candidates in Germany receive financial support in the form of a salary or grant. This includes candidates affiliated with universities, research institutes, or company collaborations.

The majority of doctoral positions are structured under either the Collective Agreement for Civil Service TVöD (Tarifvertrag für den öffentlichen Dienst or the Collective Agreement for the Civil Service of Individual Federal States TV-L (Tarifvertrag der Länder). Since universities are funded by their respective federal government, if your PhD is affiliated with one, your salary will be structured under the TV-L.

Doctoral positions fall within the TV-L 13 category, with a salary range spanning from €4,188 (Tier 1) to €6,037 (Tier 6). The difference between the tiers (Stufe) depends on prior experience in the field. If you don’t have any research experience, you will fall under Tier 1 and progress to the other tiers throughout your PhD.

Your salary will ultimately be determined based on a wage agreement that specifies the contract tier (Stufe) and working hours (percentage-based). Many entry-level PhD students start with tier 1 contracts that are not full-time. For example, if your contract places you in Pay Group E-13 Tier 1 of the TV-L and you work at 75% capacity, your monthly gross salary will be €3,141.

> Learn more about pay ranges for PhD students using this convenient calculator .

Can I Work While Pursuing a PhD in Germany?

Part-time work is an option in most cases unless it’s strictly stated otherwise in your contract. Whether or not you are allowed to work on the side as a PhD in Germany depends on the working hours stated in your PhD contract, supervisor, and other specific circumstances. 

However, since the PhD is considered a job in itself, it’s usually frowned upon to have a side hustle. Even if you have a 50% contract, a PhD is demanding and requires long hours of work and research. If you choose to work on the side, make sure to find the right balance between work and your PhD commitments. To be on the safe side, it’s best to talk to your supervisor and go over all the legal and contractual obligations related to your PhD.

What Is the Process for Defending a PhD Thesis in Germany?

Here are the main steps to defending your PhD thesis in Germany:

• Submit your thesis. The first step is submitting submit your thesis and supporting documents in adherence to all the formal requirements. A commission will be formed, and in some cases, you can suggest reviewers.
• Oral defense. The next step is preparing and undergoing an oral defense, which can take between 30 minutes to 2 hours. During this time, you will present your research and discuss it with the committee. The defense can be either public or private.
• Receive the title and publish your work. The outcome of the discussion determines your final grade, to be received after the defense. If everything goes well, you’re granted the Ph.D. title and have about two years to publish your dissertation.

What Are the Career Prospects Like After Doing a PhD in Germany?

Career prospects after a PhD in Germany are quite promising. 

The most common paths for PhD holders in Germany are either in academia as professors or post-doctorate researchers or in industry positions. 

Technology, healthcare, and finance, in particular, are some of the most in-demand industries in Germany. The country’s strong economy and research-oriented environment make it an attractive place to develop your career.

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PhD program

General information.

The PhD program allows graduates to obtain a doctorate (doctor iuris, Dr. iur.). The doctoral degree can be awarded upon proof that the candidate is capable of in-depth scholarly work in the field of law. This proof is provided by the submission of a written scientific paper (dissertation) and an oral examination (defence).

The PhD program at the Law Faculty is divided into several stages:

1. Supervision and topic search; organising the PhD project

The first step is to find a supervisor and a suitable topic for the dissertation. This is the most important step in determining the course of the PhD program. You should make thorough enquiries in advance as to which university lecturer would be a suitable supervisor for your research project.

Furthermore, you should determine how you want to organise your PhD project. In particular, how you intend on financing the period during which you plan to complete your doctorate (e.g. by means of a scholarship, part-time work, etc.)

2. Admission requirements for the PhD program

Finally, you should clarify whether you meet the formal requirements for a PhD at the Law Faculty:

In order to be admitted to the PhD program, the candidates must have successfully completed a degree in law at a German university. Applicants with an equivalent foreign degree in law must demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the German language and the German legal system. This proof can be provided by successfully completing a postgraduate course (magister iuris, magister legum) at a German university or in an equivalent manner.

As a general rule, candidates are required to have passed the First or Second State Examination in Law with at least the grade "fully satisfactory". In justified cases, the Faculty Council may exempt candidates from this requirement if they obtained the grade "satisfactory" in at least one state examination. Usually, this will be the case if the applicant either completed a seminar at the faculty and received a grade not lower than "good" or is employed as a research assistant at a chair in the Faculty .

3. Enrolling as a PhD candidate

Once the topic of the dissertation has been determined, the candidate applies to the Dean for admission to the PhD program.

The application must be accompanied by copies of the required documents and certificates as proof of eligibility for the PhD program; external applicants must submit certified copies. Applicants must also provide an informal written statement from a full-time university lecturer working at the Faculty confirming their ongoing contact with the candidate in regard to the intended dissertation. The application must also include details of any exemptions that may be necessary (e.g. from the grade requirement).

The Dean decides on admission; in certain cases the Faculty Council must give its consent. The Dean issues a written decision concerning the application for admission to the PhD program.

The supervisor and the doctoral candidate then draw up a supervision agreement. The PhD candidate is required to register for admission via the online portal for PhD and doctoral administration at the FSU Jena ( doc-in External link ).

4. Writing the PhD thesis

The main task for the PhD candidate is to write the dissertation.

The guidelines of the faculty regarding the formal requirements of a term paper, seminar paper or scientific paper apply accordingly.

In addition, the principles of good scientific practice must be observed when writing the thesis.

5. Steps of the doctoral process

Upon completion of the thesis, candidates must submit an application to the Dean's Office to initiate the doctoral process. The application must include a number of documents, the details of which can be found in the information leaflet.

The Faculty Council decides on the application to initiate the doctoral procedure; concurrently, the members of the PhD Commission are appointed upon proposal of the Dean. The Dean notifies the PhD candidate that the PhD procedure has been initiated and provides the names of the members of the PhD commission.

The examining members of the commission provide a first and second report and recommend that the thesis either be accepted or rejected (non sufficit) and, if the former, a grade. The following grading scale applies:

• summa cum laude = an outstanding achievement (0),
• magna cum laude = a very good achievement (1)
• cum laude = a good achievement (2)
• satis bene = a satisfactory achievement (3)
• rite = an achievement meeting average requirements (4).

The members of the commission can also require the work to be rectified or corrections to be made. If both reports recommend the PhD thesis be accepted by the PhD commission, this is considered to constitute a decision by the commission to accept the thesis. When the thesis has been accepted, university lecturers and members of the Faculty Council holding a doctoral title have a three week period during which they can read the thesis and the reports in the Dean's office.

The Dean notifies the PhD student that the thesis has been accepted as well as the date for the oral defense (disputation).

6. Conclusion of the doctoral process

Once the doctoral process has been successfully completed, the doctoral candidate is obliged to publish the dissertation in an appropriate manner. Depending on the chosen method of publication, the required number of mandatory copies must be submitted to the Thuringian University and State Library.

If desired, candidates can apply to the Dean for permission to use their title provisionally. If no such request is made, the right to use the doctoral title only begins once the doctoral certificate has been issued. The certificate is awarded on Feuerbach Day (approx. mid-November each year).

Doctoral candidates are required to submit a written paper (dissertation) and deliver an oral defense (disputation).

The dissertation must deal with a legal topic and must demonstrate the PhD candidate's ability to carry out independent scientific research and to contribute to the further development of jurisprudence, its theories and methods.

The dissertation may not be identical or partially identical to a paper submitted to the Friedrich Schiller University of Jena or another university for the purpose of obtaining an academic degree or as a credit for a state examination. The dissertation must have been written at least in part under the supervision of a professor, university lecturer or private lecturer of the Friedrich Schiller University of Jena.

The typewritten and bound dissertation must be submitted in German. The Faculty Council may allow a different language in justified cases. In such cases, candidates must also submit a summary of their dissertation in German.

The oral part of the PhD examination consists of the public defence of the dissertation (disputation) in front of the PhD commission. Generally, the defence takes no longer than 60 minutes.

The purpose of the defense is for the candidate to present the dissertation's main findings to the most part without notes. In the subsequent oral discussion, the candidate is then expected to defend their arguments. The third examiner who is from another discipline will assess the PhD candidate's understanding of areas of law unrelated to the subject matter of the dissertation, insofar as there is any relevance to the content of the dissertation.

After the PhD process has been successfully completed, the PhD candidate is obliged to publish the dissertation in an appropriate manner. Depending on the chosen method of publication, the mandatory number of copies must be submitted to the Thuringian University and State Library.

Information regarding depositing the required deposit copies can be found here External link .

We recommend consulting the ThULB checklist External link before submitting the deposit copies.

PhD regulations External link

Supervision agreement (model) pdf, 258 kb  · de

Application for Admission to the PhD process pdf, 90 kb  · de   Ι  Data protection notice pdf, 90 kb  · de

Please note the information regarding the collection of personal data (> data protection notice).

PhD candidates can register as doctoral students at the University of Jena (Friedrich Schiller University). The student status comes with a variety of benefits such as student prices in the canteens and the free use of rail transport in Thuringia and local transport in Jena, Weimar, Erfurt and Gera. External link

• For further details as well as information regarding PhD scholarships please refer to the Graduate Academy website External link .
• The contact person for PhD candidates is Dr. FSU External link , the FSU PhD candidate council.

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Structured Ph.D. Programme

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The structured Ph.D. programme of the Joachim Herz Doctoral School is designed to last four years and leads to the award of the German doctorate in law (Dr. iur.) by the School of Public Affairs at Leuphana University Lüneburg after successful completion.

The Ph.D. programme is characterised by the close integration of scientific activities with accompanying methodological courses, qualification offers, and excellent supervision. To this end, the Ph.D. programme offers a series of events (seminars, workshops, research colloquia, etc.) and combines them with the offerings of the Leuphana Graduate School . The latter is a unique institution in Germany, based on the Anglo-Saxon model, which supports the career development of the doctoral students through, among other things, methods courses, academic and non-academic education formats, and measures to fund research.

Entry Requirements

Selection criteria, application procedure, legal bases.

1. An above-average degree in law (or a related social science discipline).

Applicants are required to have completed a Master's degree or equivalent (magister, diploma, state examination, etc.) with above-average results (at least "good", i.e. better than 2.6 or, in the case of the first state law examination, at least "satisfactory").

Applicants with foreign university degrees are strongly advised to provide a certificate of equivalence. Otherwise, the equivalence of the degree is determined according to the respective guidelines issued by the Central Office for Foreign Education at the Permanent Secretariat of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs of the Länder in the Federal Republic of Germany ( www.anabin.de ).

2. A strong interest in and first professional points of contact regarding questions of contextualisation of law in times of transformations and disruptions .

3. A clear concept for a Ph.D. project in this subject area.

4. Fulfillment of the general admission requirements for doctoral studies at the School of Public Affairs (as outlined in the school's doctoral regulations ).

Admission is granted on the basis of the following criteria:

• The quality of the proposed Ph.D. project and its relevance to the research subject of the doctoral school (link). In particular, the project is expected to make an important and outstanding contribution to the advancement of knowledge in this research field;
• The applicant's motivation as stated in the cover letter;
• Previous examination results and study achievements;
• The assessment of the selection interview .

In addition, a suitable supervisor for the proposed Ph.D. project must be available at the School of Public Affairs and willing to supervise the applicant's Ph.D. project.

Participation in the structured Ph.D. programme at the Joachim Herz Doctoral School is generally free of charge. Only semester fees must be paid (approx. 320€ per semester).

Doctoral students are eligible for scholarships and other funding opportunities provided by Leuphana University Lüneburg, by German or foreign foundations, and by other (private or public) sources. Part-time employment (e.g. as research assistants) is also compatible with participation in the Ph.D. programme.

Admission to the structured Ph.D. programme of the Joachim Herz Doctoral School of Law is possible at any time.

In addition to fulfilling the above-mentioned admission criteria, applicants must have already been accepted as a doctoral candidate by one of the professors at Leuphana Law School (see here ). The confirmation of supervision signed by the future supervisor (further information: here ) must be enclosed with the application.

In case of any questions about the application procedure or the required documents, please contact jhkolleg @ leuphana.de

Matthias Phillipp Packeiser Universitätsallee 1, C40.225 21335 Lüneburg Fon +49.4131.677-4020 matthias.packeiser @ leuphana.de

• Guidelines for the Awarding of Doctoral Scholarships by Leuphana University Lüneburg (Gazette no. 07/14 of 30 April 2014; only available in German)
• Doctoral Regulations of the School of Public Affairs (Gazette no. 84/23 of 29 September 2023, originally in German, but available as a non-binding translation in English )

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Structured doctoral programmes

The following structured and topic-focused doctorate programmes are offered at the Faculty of Law:

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Course outline Course structure Formal requirements Academic advisors (during term-time) Contact

Faculty of Law

The Faculty of Law was one of the founding faculties of Heidelberg University in 1386. Today it is one of the outstanding legal faculties in the Federal Republic of Germany and one of the leading faculties of its kind in the European Union.

The Heidelberg Law course is based on the Ministerial Order of the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Justice on the education, training and examination of Law students (the JAPrO). It closes with the First Examination in Law. This examination consists of the State Examination in Compulsory Subjects (State Examination) and the University Examination in Focal Subjects (University Examination). Minimum course duration is three-and-a-half years, standard course duration 9 semesters. Graduates can go on to a doctorate (Dr. iur.). Law graduates from abroad can choose between two postgraduate programmes leading to an LL.M. or an LL.M. int. degree. The latter is now also available for law graduates who have studied in Germany. “Public Law” can be selected as a subsidiary subject (25%) in the framework of a Bachelor programme.

Training for law students divides into two parts, the Law course proper and the subsequent two-year preparatory service (judicial service) ending with the First and Second Examinations in Law conferring on graduates the status of judicial service trainees and junior executive officers, respectively. Successful completion of these two parts of the overall training schedule is the essential qualification not only for holding judicial office and entering the administrative civil service but also for all other mainstream legal professions (barrister/solicitor, notary, etc.).

Course outline

The aim of the Law course is set out in § 3 I of the JAPro: “With the requisite academic thoroughness, students engage with the most important sectors of Civil Law, Criminal Law and Public Law as well as a focal subject with due concern for international (notably European) and procedural perspectives. Appropriate attention is paid to the foundational subjects (History of Law, Philosophy of Law, Sociology of Law, Legal Methodology, Comparative Law, General Constitutional Law).” The Law course as described here is designed to establish the basis for admission to preparatory (judicial) service and the later practice of a legal profession. 

Achieving this goal is conditional first of all on thorough knowledge of present-day Law and its historical, economic, political and philosophical foundations and implications. This knowledge is imparted primarily by lectures on the three core sectors in Legal Studies: Civil Law, Criminal Law, Public Law. The practical classes associated with the lectures are where students acquire and consolidate the ability to apply their legal knowledge to actual cases. They are required to demonstrate this ability in written form by sitting examinations under invigilation and completing written assignments.

The subjects

Civil Law (Private Law) regulates the legal relations between individuals (e.g. contract law, laws on compensation, inheritance, employment, family law, etc.).

By contrast, Public Law is concerned with legal matters that have a bearing on the political and sovereign capacity of the state, notably the legal relations between the state and its citizens (e.g. constitutional law, administrative law).

Criminal Law defines criminal conduct and investigates the establishment and enforcement of criminal laws.

Part and parcel of these core subjects are the corresponding procedural provisions regulating the conduct of proceedings at civil, criminal, constitutional and administrative courts.

The three core subjects divide up inti numerous individual sectors that are not all given the same emphasis in the programme. Accordingly, the JAPrO distinguishes between compulsory, foundational and focal subjects (preferential focus). The foundational subjects deal with key historical, philosophical and sociological aspects of the Law (history of law, philosophy of law, sociology of law, legal methodology, comparative law, general constitutional law) and are designed to provide a profounder appreciation of Law and its applications. Subjects in the focal areas (preferential focus) are more specialist in nature and geared to central concerns in economic law, criminal law, administrative law etc. They supplement, consolidate and extend the knowledge acquired in the compulsory subjects associated with them. Engagement with a focal area begins after the intermediate examination. Selection should be dictated by personal preference and/or by the future professional pathways envisaged.

Study requirements

Apart from the general qualification to study at university (Abitur, A-levels, etc.), the Law course imposes no specific requirements on potential students, not even knowledge of Latin. Evidence of adequate proficiency in Latin (the Latinum , etc.) is however required of students embarking later on a doctoral programme in Law. Alongside a broad fund of general knowledge, Law students should possess the ability to express themselves correctly (both in writing and orally), an ability absolutely indispensable for the legal professions. In addition, the work involved in the course calls for logical and abstract thinking. A grasp of, and an interest in, political, economic and societal issues should be self-evident. In future, knowledge of foreign languages (notably French and English) will be even more important for lawyers than they are now. One indication that may be helpful in coming to a decision on what to study is the fact that various investigations have shown that there is a clearly defined connection between the average grades achieved in German, Mathematics and Latin (or the first foreign language) in school-leaving examinations and success in studying Law (examination results and study duration).

Special features of the Heidelberg Law course

Within the ambit of the statutory provisions governing education for Law students, the Heidelberg Law Faculty has a highly distinctive profile. This is reflected first of all in the focal areas offered in the later stages of the course:

• Focal Area 1: History of Law and Historical Comparative Law
• Focal Area 2: Criminology
• Focal Area 3: German and European Administrative Law
• Focal Area 4: Law of Industrial Relations and Social Law
• Focal Area 5: Fiscal Law
• Focal Area 5b: Company (Enterprise) Law
• Focal Area 6: Economic Law and European Law
• Focal Area 7: Law of Civil Procedure
• Focal Area 8a: International Private and Procedural Law
• Focal Area 8b: International Law
• Focal Area 9: Medical Law and Health Law
• Focal Area 10: European and International Law on Capital Markets and Financial Services

In response to the large number of Law graduates who opt for a profession as a “lawyer” (barrister or solicitor, attorney), the Faculty of Law introduced in 1996 a “lawyer-oriented” training programme called Anwaltsorientiere Juristenausbildung . This new programme gives students a greater opportunity than before to acquaint themselves in class with the lawyer’s or notary’s perspective on legal activity. One of the ways this is achieved is by integrating lawyer-oriented approaches and issues into the traditional classes on elective and compulsory subjects, not least by inviting experienced practitioners to participate in lectures and practical classes. This pioneering Heidelberg model has been emulated by universities all over Germany.

The Faculty’s “HeidelPräp!” programme is designed to facilitate comprehensive preparation for the first Examination in Law (State Examination and University Examination). For a detailed account of the strategy behind it and the elements it is made up of, go to http://www.examensvorbereitung-heidelberg.de

For many years, the Heidelberg Faculty has run a three-semester course providing an introduction to the foundations of French law and French legal parlance closing (if so desired) with an examination. A similar course on the foundations of British and American law is also available.

There are partnerships with the Law Faculties of universities in Cambridge, Georgetown (Washington DC), Montpellier, Budapest, Cracow, Porto Alegre, Prague and the Cornell Law School, Ithaca (NY).

Within the framework of the ERASMUS programme exchanges are possible with the Law Faculties of the following universities: Athens, Barcelona, Barcelona Autônoma, Bergen, Bologna, Budapest, Cluj-Napoca, Complutense (Madrid), Copenhagen, Cracow, Deusto (Bilbao), Ferrara, Fribourg, Gdansk, King’s College (London), La Laguna (Tenerife), Lecce, Leeds, Leiden, Leuven, Ljubljana, Lund, Maribor, Montpellier, Neuchâtel, Poitiers, Porto, Prague, Roma III, Salerno, San Pablo CEU (Madrid), Sorbonne-Paris I, Strasbourg, Tilburg, Uppsala, Vilnius, Yeditepe (Istanbul).

Course structure

Unlike many other higher-education course, the Law programme is not especially regimented (no attendance lists or end-of-term examinations), so that to a very large degree students can organise their studies as they see fit. However, to provide some guidance in the expedient and systematic management of coursework, The Faculty of Law has elaborated a Study Plan. It is a proposal that takes account of the requirements of the JAPrO and contains recommendations on what classes (subjects) to attend in a given semester.

Formal requirements

The course is admission-restricted ( numerus clausus = limited intake). The current Selection Regulations are available here . Application online .

International applicants

There are special regulations for international applicants. Please consult Heidelberg University’s International Relations Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt , Seminarstraße 2) for more information. International students are offered a preparatory semester in the summer term prior to the beginning of the course proper.

Study and examination regulations

Overview of Examination and Study Regulations on the website of the Faculty of Law Intermediate Examination Regulations (new, from summer semester 2009) Intermediate Examination Regulations (old, up to winter semester 08/09) Regulations on Course Content and Examination in Focal Areas (2015) Regulations on Course Content and Examination in Focal Areas (2013) Regulations on Course Content and Examination in Focal Areas (2008) Regulations on Course Content and Examination in Focal Areas (2004) Fundamentals of French Law: Examination Regulations (14 July 1994) Fundamentals of Anglo-American Law: Examination Regulations (14 July 1994) Non-grading of classwork with identical content

Examinations board

Issues arising in connection with examinations, credit transfer and academic credential recognition are dealt with by the relevant examinations board/office. For more information, consult the academic advisor(s) indicated below.

Tuition fees at Heidelberg University are payable at the beginning of each semester.

Academic advisors (during term-time)

State Examination Dr. Daniel Kaiser Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 6-10, Office 019 office hours in term-time: Mondays and Thursdays 9 – 11 am and 2 – 4 pm phone: +49 (0)6221 547632 e-mail: [email protected]

Bachelor (25% subsidiary subject), M.A. subsidiary subject (to be discontinued) and other issues connected with subsidiary subjects Karla Klemann Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 6-10, Office 016 office hours in term-time: Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 am – 12 noon phone: +49 (0)6221 547435 e-mail: [email protected] http://www.jura.uni-heidelberg.de/fakultaet/dekanat.html#Nebenfach-Angelegeheiten

Faculty of Law Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 6-10 D-69117 Heidelberg

Secretaries phone: +49 (0)6221 547631 or 547630 fax: +49 (0)6221 547654 e-mail [email protected] Internet: http://www.jura.uni-heidelberg.de/ Location

Student representation phone: +49 (0)6221 547720 fax: +49 (0)6221 547654 (address to “Fachschaft”) e-mail: [email protected] Internet: www.juhei.de/index.php?news

Structured Doctoral Programs

Each of our structured doctoral programs offers a comprehensive and cross-disciplinary curriculum designed to help you realize your full potential and prepare for a successful career. The programs include innovative, personalized advising with regular progress checks, as well as extensive opportunities to broaden your research network and connect with peers in your field.

The University of Bonn offers a wide range of funding opportunities, which have been summarized for you on this page, divided into the following categories:

Bonn International Graduate Schools (BIGS)

Phd programs within our cluster of excellence.

• Structured Doctoral Programs by Discipline 

Third-Party Funded Programs

Doctoral education at the highest level: BIGS enable doctoral studies in outstanding research contexts with attractive international collaborations and a qualification program tailored to the needs of graduate students.

Located at the Hausdorff Center for Mathematics and supported by Germany’s Excellence Initiative, BIGS-M  is home to all of the University’s doctoral candidates in mathematics and contributes to Bonn’s excellent international reputation in the field.

BGSE offers a structured program that is tailored to the needs of doctoral candidates, including an internationally recognized research network.

Supported by Germany’s Excellence Initiative and jointly administered by the renowned Physics Institutes at the Universities of Bonn and Cologne, BCGS  offers doctoral studies through an integrated honors program.

Home to an international community of talented biomedical scientists, BIGS DrugS 6 6 is the hub for doctoral candidates from pharma research institutes within the University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and Faculty of Medicine.

BIGS-OAS offers a wide range of courses within a research context, focused on the cultures and societies of Asia and Asia Minor.

BIGS Neuroscience provides a top-level, internationally competitive program in this rapidly growing field.

BIGS CPS's interdisciplinary approach combines medical, agricultural and pharmaceutical research.

BIGS Chemistry 10 doctoral candidates enjoy an exceptional and ambitious program covering all fields of chemistry.

This three-year doctoral program  is offered in conjunction with the University’s ImmunoSensation Cluster, which is funded by Germany’s Excellence Initiative.

Part of the University of Bonn’s Center for Development Research, BIGS-DR   trains students for an international career in development cooperation, policy or research through a combination of academic study and intensive tutorship.

The BIGS Land and Food combines the research at the agricultural Faculty with an interdisciplinary study program.

Clusters of Excellence stand for international and interdisciplinary elite research and offer young scientists excellent funding and career conditions. The University of Bonn currently has six clusters of excellence, more than any other university in Germany, and thus opens up a broad spectrum of possible research topics to doctoral candidates. Here you will find an overview of the university's clusters of excellence.

PhD Programs within our Excellence Cluster

The goal of the Hausdorff Center of Mathematics is to identify and address mathematical challenges of the 21st century, to advance groundbreaking fundamental mathematical research worldwide, and to develop the mathematical methods and tools required by science and society.

Part of the Hausdorff Center is also a graduate school: The Bonn International Graduate School of Mathematics (BIGS-M) hosts all doctoral students of mathematics and contributes to the outstanding international reputation of the university in this field. The duration of the program is usually 3 years, and the doctorate (Dr. rer nat.) can be earned as a degree.

More information: https://www.bigs-math.uni-bonn.de/de/studies/ 14 15 15

ImmunoSensation2 aims to continue the success story of the existing ImmunoSensation cluster. While the emphasis so far has been on fundamental research in particular of the innate immune system, now the mechanisms of immune intelligence are to be uncovered, i.e. the question of how the body succeeds in adapting immune responses to specific situations and then remembers this in order to be optimally prepared for similar challenges in the future. The cluster's graduate school, the Bonn International Graduate School Immunosciences and Infection offers a structured, three-year doctoral program.

You can find further information about this program here: 

https://www.immunosensation.de/opportunities/young-scientists

Until today, dependency studies has almost exclusively dealt with slavery on the American continent or in antiquity. The Cluster of Excellence "Bonn Center for Dependency and Slavery Studies (BCDSS)" aims to broaden this perspective in terms of content, space and time. Within the framework of the cluster, a structured doctoral program with a duration of 4 years is offered.

Further information can be found at:  https://www.dependency.uni-bonn.de/en 15 16

Over the last few decades, computer hardware has become smaller and smaller, but their technology remains more or less the same. Slowly, this development is reaching its limits.Thus, we need new technologies that satisfy our growing hunger for even more powerful hardware.

Quantum physics could be a solution.

Together with the University of Cologne and the RWTH Aachen, Bonn researchers want to work on making this new technology usable. To achieve this, quantum bits or even qubits - the quantum counterpart to our previous bits - quantum communication channels that build networks and error correction methods have to be explored from the ground up. As part of the Excellence Initiative, the Bonn-Cologne Graduate School of Physics and Astronomy (BCGS) offers a doctoral program with an integrated honors program.

Further information can be found at:  http://www.gradschool.physics.uni-bonn.de/. 4 4

The ECONtribute researches the functioning of markets as well as reasons for their failure. In doing so, the cluster goes beyond traditional analyses by systematically combining model-based theoretical approaches and behavioral explanatory models while incorporating legal and political frameworks. Within the cluster, the Bonn Graduate School of Economics (BGSE) offers doctoral students a tailored structured doctoral program that includes an internationally recognized research network.

Further information can be found at:  https://www.bgse.uni-bonn.de. 3 3

Increasing agricultural production despite limited land while reducing the ecological footprint of agriculture - this is one of the challenges of our time. For this reason, the University of Bonn and Forschungszentrum Jülich are jointly developing methods and new technologies to observe, analyze, better understand and more specifically treat plants. The cluster's graduate school, the Theodor Brinkmann Graduate School, offers an interdisciplinary study program to master's students and doctoral candidates at the Faculty of Agriculture.

More information: https://www.phenorob.de/ .

The Third-Party Funded Programs at the University of Bonn offer structured doctoral studies on selected research topics. They enable close networking among doctoral students conducting research on related topics.

Bonn International Graduate School of Mathematics (BIGS-M) 2 17 18 18 Located at the Hausdorff Center for Mathematics, BIGS-M provides an umbrella for all Bonn PhD students in mathematics. Thus, the BIGS-M contributes to the excellent national and international reputation of mathematics at Bonn.

Bonn International Graduate School Immunosciences and Infection The BIGS Immunosciences and Infection is a structured 3-year PhD program in conjunction with the ImmunoSensation Cluster/Bonn. The ImmunoSensation Cluster is part of the Excellence Strategy.

DFG Research Training Group "Gegenwart/Literatur. Geschichte, Theorie und Praxeologie eines Verhältnisses" (GRK 2291) [only in German] The Research Training group supported by the DFG  aims at the exploration and analysis of the constitutive dimensions of the concept of contemporary literature.  

DFG international Research Training Group "Myeloid antigen presenting cells and the induction of adaptive immunity" GRK (2168) 19 19 19 19 The DFG-funded project is a cooperation of the University of Bonn and the University of Melbourne. The principal research focus is the intersection between innate and adaptive immunity in the context of infection.

DFG Research Training Group  "The Macroeconomics of Inequality"  ( GRK 2281) 20 20 20 20 The research program focuses on the macroeconomic aspects of inequality, an aspect of first-order importance for society. 

DFG Research Training Group "Template-designed Organic Electronics (TIDE)" (GRK 2591) 21 21 21 The Graduate Program 'Template-Designed Optoelectronic Devices' (TIDE) aims to provide comprehensive doctoral education in the field of Organic Electronics (OE) to meet the requirements of highly qualified and multidisciplinary professionals. 

DFG Research Training Group "Tools and Drugs of the Future - Innovative Methods and New Modalities in Medicinal Chemistry" (GRK 2873) The goal of the RTG " Tools and Drugs of the Future" is to modernize medicinal chemistry and train a new generation of medicinal chemists and researchers at the interface with interconnected disciplines. In addition, the projects are intended to contribute to the development of new drug substances.

Integrated Research Training Group at the DFG Collaborative Research Centre "Synaptic Micronetworks in Health and Disease" (SFB 1089) 22 22 27 27 Located at the newly inaugurated SFB 1089 on neuronal networks, the Integrated Research Training Group offers a structured graduate program for all doctoral researchers at the Centre.

Integrated Research Training Group at theDFG Collaborative Research Centre "Future Rural Africa" (SFB/TR 228) The integrated research group is investigating the relationship between land use change and shaping the future in rural Africa in a total of 14 subprojects.

Integrated Research Training Group at the DFG Collaborative Research Centre "Open System Control of Atomic and Photonic Matter" (SFB/TR 185) 24 The collaborative research centre Oscar will explore the physics of open systems.

Integrated Research Training Group at the DFG Collaborative Research Centre "Aortic Diseases" (SFB/TR 259) 25 The aim of this research initiative is to better understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms of resident and non-resident cells in aortic diseases.

Integrated Research Training Group at the DFG Collaborative Research Centre "Regional Climate Change: Disentangling the Role of Land Use and Water Management" (SFB 1502) The SFB combines the strengths of the University of Bonn and its project partners to answer one of the most difficult questions in understanding climate change.

Integrated Research Training Group at the DFG Collaborative Research Centre "Brown and Beige Fat - Organ Crosstalk, Signaling and Energetics (BATenergy)" (SFB/TRR 333) The CRC investigates metabolism/diabetes and focusses on brown adipose tissue. 

One Health and Urban Transformation

The NRW Forschungskolleg One Health and Urban Transformation is a transdisciplinary graduate school that aims to find interventions to achieve optimal health for humans, animals, plants and the environment with a special focus on developments in NRW, Saõ Paulo, Accra and Ahmedabad.

International Max Planck Research School Moduli Spaces 27 27 In cooperation with the University of Bonn, the renowned Bonn Max-Planck-Institute for Mathematics offers a PhD program with a special focus on the study of moduli.

International Max Planck Research School for Astronomy and Astrophysics 28 28 In cooperation between the Max-Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy and the Universities of Bonn and of Cologne, the Research School facilitates 3 years of PhD studies with a curriculum tailored to the individual student.

International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior 29 The IMPRS for Brain & Behavior is a cooperation between the Max Planck Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior - caesar, the University of Bonn and the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) in Bonn

International Max Planck Research School - Recharge IMPRS-RECHARGE focuses on interdisciplinary research between chemistry and physics with an emphasis on catalytic mechanisms, physical-chemical analysis and energy topics. Scientific challenges shall be looked at from different angles. Furthermore the combination of theory and practice is a vital aim of the IMPRS-RECHARGE.

Marie Curie Innovative Training Network "Macro and Microplastic in Agricultural Soil Systems“ (SOPLAS) The SOPLAS project will assemble a multidisciplinary team to study the nexus of plastic–agriculture–soil. It will also train a new generation of leading experts. The project aims to identify the plastic cycle within agricultural soil systems and support the development of environmental policies related to mitigating the impact of plastics. The findings will advance our knowledge about the sustainable use of plastics in European agriculture.

Marie Curie Innovative Training Network "Early Stage Researchers EDUCational Program on Factor VIII Immunogenicity“ (EDUC8 ) 32 37 The EDUC8 program is a multidisciplinary training program with exposure of the enrolled ESRs to a core common educational package and development of individual PhD researchprojects dedicated to decreasing the societal burden associated with the development of anti-FVIII antibodies in Europe.

Marie Curie Innovative Training Network "Research and Training in Early Life Nutrition to Prevent Disease" (GROWTH)

GROWTH is an Innovative Training Network that aims to train young business-oriented researchers in developing pathological insights, biomarker diagnostics and personalized nutritional interventions for intestinal failure in neonates and preterm infants.

Tools4Teams - "Research Training to Design and Implement Tools Supporting Safe Teamwork in Healthcare"

The Tools4Teams research project will prepare the next generation of teamwork experts to contribute new insights and smart technologies for safe and effective care. Tools4Teams brings together expertise from social and technical sciences, human-centered design, education, and clinical specialties.

Trinational Graduate College "Mass and Integration in Antique Societies" [in German/French] Supported by the Deutsch-Französische Hochschule since 2011, the tri-national Graduate School in Ancient History offers curriculum events in Bonn, Berne, and Strasbourg.

Structured Doctoral Programs by Discipline

Find the right structured doctoral program at the University of Bonn in your discipline here:

• Cross-Disciplinary Options
• Medicine and Life Sciences
• Mathematics and Natural Sciences
• Agriculture

Faculties at the University of Bonn work together to design interdisciplinary programs that combine key perspectives and offer unique insights.

Cross-Disciplinary Programs

Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) 42 Unique in Europe, BIGS-DR links perspectives from the Faculties of Philosophy, Agriculture, and Law and Economics – with an international focus.

Bonn International Graduate School of Neuroscience (BIGS Neuroscience) 8 8 A collaboration between the University’s Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, as well as external partners, BIGS Neuroscience offers a medical program alongside five research areas in medicine.

SciMed Doctoral College 43 42 The Doctoral College offers scientific training for students in medicine and dental medicine, leading to a dual Dr. med. and Dr. med. dent. degree.

Researchers at the University of Bonn explore a wide variety of issues in economics, including game theory, applied microeconomics, monetary and international macroeconomics, contract theory, labor economics and finance.

Economics Programs

Bonn Graduate School of Economics (BGSE) BGSE offers a structured program that is tailored to the needs of doctoral candidates, including an internationally recognized research network.

DFG Research Training Group "Die Macroeconomics of Inequality" (GRK 2281) The research program focuses on the macroeconomic aspects of inequality, an aspect of first-order importance for society. 

Law Programs

Graduate School of Law and Political Science Department of Law The Graduate School of the Faculty of Law and Political Science was founded in the summer semester of 2018 and supports the doctoral students in preparing their doctoral studies.

The University of Bonn’s Faculty of Medicine offers doctoral programs in medical biochemistry, neurosciences and pharmacology. With the exception of the SciMed Doctoral College, all programs are administered in cooperation with the University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences.

Cross-Disciplinary Program

SciMed Doctoral College The Doctoral College offers scientific training for students in medicine and dental medicine, leading to a dual Dr. med. and Dr. med. dent. degree.

Neuroscience

Bonn International Graduate School of Neuroscience (BIGS Neuroscience) BIGS Neuroscience provides a top-level, internationally competitive program in this rapidly growing field.

Synaptic Micronetworks in Health and Disease (SFB 1089) Supported by the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft – DFG) collaborative research centers, this integrated research training group works to identify fundamental rules that govern neuronal behavior at the network level and translate network dynamics to mammalian and human behavior.

International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior A joint venture of the University of Bonn, the Max-Planck-associated Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, and Florida Atlantic University, this graduate school offers a complete doctoral and research program in the neurosciences.

Marie Curie Initial Training Network "modelling and pRedicting Human decision-making Using Measures of subconscious Brain processes through mixed reality interfaces and biOmetric signals" (RHUMBO) RHUMBO proposes using measures of subconscious brain processes through the use of mixed reality technologies (MRT) and advanced biometric signals processing as a new paradigm to improve the knowledge that implicit brain processes have in human decision-making.

Pharma Research

Bonn International Graduate School of Drug Sciences (BIGS DrugS) Home to an international community of talented biomedical scientists, BIGS DrugS is the hub for doctoral candidates from pharma research institutes within the University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and Faculty of Medicine.

Bonn International Graduate School of Immunosciences and Infection

This three-year doctoral program is offered in conjunction with the University's ImmunoSensation Cluster , which is funded by Germany’s Excellence Initiative.

DFG Research Training Group "Myeloid antigen presenting cells and the induction of adaptive immunity" GRK (2168) The DFG-funded project is a cooperation of the University of Bonn and the University of Melbourne.

At the University of Bonn’s Faculty of Arts, you’ll find a highly international environment with students and researchers in a wide range of fields.

German Studies, Comparative Literature and Culture 

Structured Doctoral Program in German Studies (SPP) [website in German] Taught in German, the SPP supports doctoral candidates’ initiatives within the Institute for German, Comparative Literature and Cultural Studies.

German-Italian Doctoral College [website in German] Taught in German, this three-year grant program provides structured doctoral studies for researchers in German and Italian, with time in both Bonn and Florence.

History and Ancient History 

Mass and Integration in Antique Societies [website in German and French] Supported by Franco-German University and taught in German and French, this trinational doctoral program includes study in Bonn; Berne, Switzerland; and Strasbourg, France.

Oriental and Asian Studies Bonn

International Graduate School of Oriental and Asian Studies (BIGS-OAS) BIGS-OAS offers a wide range of courses within a research context, focused on the cultures and societies of Asia and Asia Minor.

Romance Studies

Italian Studies [website in German and Italian] Offered in cooperation with the Universities of Florence and Paris-Sorbonne IV, this trinational doctoral program is taught in German and Italian.

Structured DPhil program at the Faculty of Arts The program supports qualified doctoral candidates from all disciplines in their doctoral projects. It provides the opportunity for networking, interdisciplinary exchange in diverse social sciences and humanities subjects, progress monitoring and financial support for travel, workshops or research funding as part of the doctorate.

European Founding Myths in Literature, Arts and Music [website in German, French and Italian] This trinational program is jointly organized by the Universities of Bonn, Florence and Paris-Sorbonne IV and taught in German, French and Italian.

Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) Part of the University of Bonn’s Center for Development Research, BIGS-DR trains students for an international career in development cooperation, policy or research through a combination of academic study and intensive tutorship.

The University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences offers numerous externally funded doctoral programs in areas including mathematics and informatics, physics, biology, pharmacology and molecular biomedicine.

Programs in neuroscience, pharma research, immunoscience, and infection and molecular biomedicine are offered in cooperation with the Faculty of Medicine.

Mathematics

Bonn International Graduate School of Mathematics (BIGS-M) 2 2 Located at the Hausdorff Center for Mathematics, BIGS-M is home to all of the University’s doctoral candidates in mathematics and contributes to Bonn’s excellent international reputation in the field.

International Max Planck Research School on Moduli Spaces 53 53 This program includes courses, seminars and activities focused on the geometric spaces whose points represent fixed algebro-geometric objects (or isomorphism classes of such objects).

Physics und Astronomy

Bonn-Cologne Graduate School of Physics and Astronomy (BCGS) 4 4 Supported by Germany’s Excellence Initiative and jointly administered by the renowned Physics Institutes at the Universities of Bonn and Cologne, BCGS offers doctoral studies through an integrated honors program.

International Max Planck Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics 55 55 This program offers a broad spectrum of topics in observational and theoretical galactic and extragalactic astrophysics, observational and theoretical cosmology, and fundamental physics – using astronomical tools and instrumentation.

Leibniz Graduate School on Genomic Biodiversity Research Based at Bonn’s Alexander Koenig Research Museum, this school is focused primarily on insect genome evolution.

Bonn International Graduate School of Chemistry (BIGS Chemistry) 57 57 BIGS Chemistry offers an internationally competitive doctoral program and opportunities to perform cutting-edge research.

Neurosciences

Bonn International Graduate School of Neuroscience (BIGS Neuroscience) 8 8 BIGS Neuroscience provides a top-level, internationally competitive program in this rapidly growing field.

Synaptic Micronetworks in Health and Disease (SFB 1089) 22 22 Supported by DFG collaborative research centers, this integrated research training group works to identify fundamental rules that govern neuronal behavior at the network level and translate network dynamics to mammalian and human behavior.

International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior 29 29 The IMPRS for Brain & Behavior is a cooperation between the Max Planck Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior - caesar, the University of Bonn and the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) in Bonn.

Bonn International Graduate School of Drug Sciences (BIGS DrugS) 6 6 Home to an international community of talented biomedical scientists, BIGS DrugS is the hub for doctoral candidates from pharma research institutes within the University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and Faculty of Medicine.

BIGS Immunoscience and Infection A structured, three-year doctoral program, IITB is offered in conjunction with the ImmunoSensation Cluster at the University of Bonn.

Doctoral candidates in the field of agriculture may choose to study through the Faculty of Agriculture’s Theodor Brinkmann Graduate School or earn their degree through the University of Bonn’s Center for Development Research.

Agriculture Programs

Bonn International Graduate School for Land and Food (BIGS Land and Food)  Founded in 2008, the Brinkmann School is home to master's and doctoral candidates in the Faculty of Agriculture, combining research with an interdisciplinary study program.

Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) 12 Part of the University of Bonn’s Center for Development Research 59 , BIGS-DR trains researchers for an international career in development cooperation, policy or research through a combination of academic study and intensive tutorship.

Dr. Robert Radu

[email protected]

+49 228 73-60222

Poppelsdorfer Allee 47

Office Hours

Questions about the structured doctorate? Register for the (virtual) office hours and get advice:

• Tuesday 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m.

Additional Qualification: Doctorate plus

Expand your skills with our training program Doctorate plus.

Learn about the numerous funding opportunities and grants for doctoral students.

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Find out what's new and see upcoming events.

The Faculty of Law is one of the strongest research centres in its field. Outstanding academics - from doctoral students to Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court - form the basis for the Faculty's excellent research record.

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Interdisciplinary: research projects on specific topics and issues

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Doing a PhD in Germany

Germany’s reputation as an outstanding research destination continues to attract the world’s finest minds. In 2014 an incredible Number of 85,000 people chose Germany to write their dissertations or join one of our growing number of doctoral research teams. Discover your best route to a PhD in Germany, including financing options and advice on how to prepare for your research stay.

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Faculty of Law

International

Faculty members, welcome to the faculty of law.

The faculty of Law at Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University is one of the largest Law Faculties in Germany with at present 34 professorships and 4.098 students. Within the framework of the "Hessischen Juristenausbildungsgesetz" the legal education in Frankfurt is characterized by emphasizing the foundations of Law as well as interdisciplinary exchange.

From Frankfurt am Main into the world and the world as a guest in Frankfurt at the Faculty of Law.

The teaching and research focuses are in the areas of "Principles of Law", "Europeanization and Globalization", "Economic, Labor and Social Law". They are formed from the following established institutes: Institute for civil and ecomonic law, Institute for criminology and philosophy of law, Institute for public law, Institute for history of law, Institute for international and european private law and comparative law. 

to the Homepages...

Information about the Faculty Members.

More informations for students and interested parties here .

The main research areas are „Principles of Law“, “Europeanization and Globalization of Law” and “Economic, Labor and Social Law”.

More information about graduate studies, including the Masters programme, doctoral studies and habilitations may be found on our graduate pages.

to the Graduate Pages

Quick Links

• Library of the university
• Library for Law und Economics
• Central Computing Center

Orientation Maps

• Orientation Map Campus Westend as PDF-Download
• Campus Westend at Google-Maps
• Special orientation map for building Eschersheimer Landstraße 121

University Frankfurt Faculty of Law Dean's Office

Theodor-W.-Adorno-Platz 4 60629 Frankfurt am Main

Phone 069/798-34206 Fax 069/798-34530 Office hours: Mon - Thu: 9.00 am - 12.00 pm [email protected]

• Department of Law

Doctoral programme in Law

Programme Start Date

Methodology

Residential

Villa Salviati

The call for applications for the 2025-26 academic year (start date: 1 September 2025) will open in November 2024 - the deadline will be 31 January 2025 at 14:00 (CET).

Programme Description

The content on this page is subject to change for the 2025-26 call for applications

The Department of Law enables you to study the challenges facing European law, public international law, and private law, with PhD opportunities across social, cultural, political and economic topics.

Our researchers create strong links during their time here, thanks to our outstanding levels of interaction between faculty and researchers. Close supervision, seminars that are open to all, and active working groups ensure a dynamic exchange of ideas and knowledge, which shapes your research and helps develop your intellectual independence.

The interdisciplinary nature of our Department means that each year, world-famous scholars and leaders in their field visit to carry out research and to present and discuss their work. Our researchers further develop their skills and understanding through access to these experts.

Meet the EUI LAW faculty and check their research fields.

The policy of the EUI is not to offer individual guidance and advice on dissertation proposals. Do not contact potential supervisors but read the information on research themes and indicate one or more professors who could supervise your dissertation in the application form.

If you have any questions on the programme, grants, requirements, application and selection procedures, please contact the EUI Admissions Office – Email: [email protected]

The EUI is committed to providing equitable and inclusive conditions for all candidates and is keen to attract, encourage and retain a diverse and highly qualified community of scholars.

Candidates with disabilities or specific educational needs are encouraged to register their needs with the Office of the Dean of Graduate Studies (Email: [email protected] ) for the coordination of reasonable adjustments at the stage of application, selection, and admission to the programme.

Additional Information

• Exchange Programmes
• Doctoral Supervision at the EUI
• Academic and Professional Development
• Recognition of the EUI Doctorate
• Academic Rules and Policies
• Extracurricular Activities

• General Information
• Tuition fees

Application & Admission

Language requirements, program features.

• List of Universities

3130 Study programs

Study Law in Germany: 94 Universities with 139 English Study Programs

All important info for international students in germany (2024/2025).

Looking for an English-language degree in legal studies in Germany will lead you to various Master’s programs that pursue comparative studies or focus on internationalized aspects of law, such as European Law, Law and Business, or International Law. Studying law abroad and in a cosmopolitan classroom setting will allow you to contrast and better understand various legal norms.

Students who study the regular track of law in Germany usually receive training that is very specific to the German context and graduate with the state examination. The international English-language Master programs are slightly different: They are easily transferable to other international degrees and qualify students for careers in various organizations throughout the world. The degree awarded is often an LLM, which is internationally recognized.

Study Programs in English

Universities

Universities in International Rankings

€ 0 (61 programs for EU citizens, 52 programs for Non-EU citizens)

€ 23,500 per semester (1 program for EU citizens/Non-EU)

Winter Semester

between August 16 and August 15

Summer Semester

between September 01 and August 15

Top-ranked German Universities in Law

private (state-approved) University of Applied Sciences

No. of Students: approx. 105,000 students

Program Fees: € 3,336 - € 4,530 (per semester)

public University

No. of Students: approx. 28,000 students

Program Fees: € 6,000 (per semester)

No. of Students: approx. 36,000 students

Program Fees: € 0 - € 4,500 (per semester)

No. of Students: approx. 38,000 students

Program Fees: € 0 - € 4,750 (per semester)

No. of Students: approx. 37,000 students

Program Fees: € 0 - € 1,500 (per semester)

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Tuition Fees

3 english degree programs for law in germany.

Ruhr-Universität Bochum Bochum

European culture and economy (ecue).

Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences - Hochschule Braunschweig/Wolfenbüttel Wolfenbüttel

Sustainability & risk management.

University of Potsdam / Film University Babelsberg Konrad Wolf / Erich Pommer Institut - EPI Potsdam

European film business and law (mba).

Application Deadlines

Winter Semester 2024/2025

Summer Semester 2025

Winter Semester 2025/2026

Open Programs

32 programs

42 programs

131 programs

Application Requirements

Master degrees in Law are open to students who gained a first academic degree in similar fields, depending on the program’s specialization, students from other backgrounds than Law, such as Political Science, Business or Economics may be accepted, as well. For most programs, entrance tests or interviews are not part of the admission process, you only have to hand in standard certificates (your first degree certificate and a transcript of records). These typically include your CV and a letter of motivation. Additionally, you will have to demonstrate excellent English language abilities with a language certificate, usually around a C1 level.

Application Modes

Application process, european film business and law (ll.m.).

Ethics - Economics, Law and Politics

Willy Brandt School of Public Policy University of Erfurt · Erfurt

Public policy.

TOEFL Scores

Cambridge Levels

4.5 (1 program )

60 (1 program )

B2 First (FCE) (36 programs )

7 (22 programs )

100 (10 programs )

C2 Proficiency (CPE) (31 programs )

Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences Kleve

International taxation and law.

International Graduate Center (IGC) HSB Hochschule Bremen – City University of Applied Sciences · Bremen

Management - digitalization and transformation.

Institute for Law and Finance Goethe University Frankfurt · Frankfurt am Main

Ll.m. in finance.

2-24 semesters

→ View all programs with online courses

Master of Laws

Bachelor of Science

Master of Business Law

Master of Business Administration

Master of Science

Bachelor of Arts

Master of Arts

Master of Law and Business

Bachelor of Laws

Master of Public Administration

Master of Public Policy

Master of Engineering

Winter intake

Summer intake

Winter & Summer intake

List of all German Universities offering English-taught Study Programs in Law

accadis Hochschule Bad Homburg - University of Applied Sciences

Program Fees: € 5,700

M.A. (Master of Arts)

Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences Berlin

Program Fees: € 1,250 - € 2,640

Anhalt University of Applied Sciences

Program Fees: € 1,500

MBA (Master of Business Administration)

Ansbach University of Applied Sciences

Program Fees: € 0

M.Eng. (Master of Engineering)

Aschaffenburg University of Applied Sciences

News & Articles

Tuition-free Universities in Germany in English

Master's Requirements in Germany

Scholarships for international students 2024/25

Uni-assist: A guide for international students (2024)

How Much Does it Cost to Live in Germany?

Germany in University Rankings

DAAD Scholarships: Guide

Engineering Universities in Germany: A Guide 2024/25

PhD Law programs in Germany

Law and finance.

Goethe University Frankfurt

Sport science.

Technical University of Munich

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings is the only global university performance table to judge research-intensive universities across all of their core missions: teaching, research, knowledge transfer and international outlook.

Business Administration General Management (With and Without Business Background)

Georg Simon Ohm University of Applied Sciences Nuremberg

Euroin law and economics (emle).

University of Hamburg

Peace and security studies, law and business.

Bucerius Law School

Intercultural communication and european studies (iceus).

Fulda University of Applied Sciences

Erasmus and european legal practice (cle).

Leibniz University Hannover

European legal practice integrated studies (elpis ii), eulisp: european legal informatics study programme, economics and management science (mems).

Humboldt University Berlin

Global change management (gcm).

University of Applied Sciences Eberswalde

University of Justus Liebig Giessen

Ma programme german-french business, labour and social law.

University of Heinrich Heine

International management and intercultural communication and global business administration.

University of Applied Sciences Cologne

University of Magdeburg

Business administration international business in developing and emerging markets (ibdem).

Freiberg Mining Academy

University of Munster

Public policy.

Hertie School of Management

Public economics, law and politics.

Leuphana University Luneburg

International business administration.

European University Viadrina

Business law in an international context.

Berlin School of Economics and Law

Business and engineering.

Wurzburg-Schweinfurt University of Applied Sciences

Comparative business law.

University of Mannheim

Kiel University

Programme ethics — economics, law and politics.

Ruhr University of Bochum

Life science economics and policy (mlsep), social and economic data analysis (seda).

University of Konstanz

Business sciences (double degree).

Bamberg University

International wine business (iwb).

Geisenheim University

Chinese law and comparative law and ma.

University of Gottingen

International legal theory (with european academy of legal theory), china-europe executive business marketing.

Free University of Berlin

Energy management.

Berlin University of Technology

International business administration and entrepreneurship, international dispute resolution laws, business and organisational psychology.

Steinbeis University

Tax policy and tax administration, human rights studies in politcs, law and society, deadline information, best universities with law in germany.

Bachelor Law programs in Germany

Master Law programs in Germany

Most Popular Law programs in Germany

PhD Law programs in Germany

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Study In Germany: DAAD Scholarship 2025 Open For International Ph.D. And Master's Students

The daad scholarship 2025 offers up to €1,300 per month for students from developing countries to pursue master's or phd degrees in germany, covering tuition, insurance, and living expenses..

The DAAD Scholarship 2025 offers a significant opportunity for students from developing countries to pursue higher education in Germany. The scholarship is open to international students of all disciplines aiming for a master's or postgraduate degree at a state or state-recognised German university.

Financial Support:

Doctoral Candidates: €1,300 (approx. ₹1,19,000) per month stipend.

Graduate Candidates: €934 (approx. ₹85,000) per month stipend.

Insurance Coverage: The scholarship includes payments towards accident, health, and personal liability insurance.

Required Documents:

Proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL for English, DSH/TestDaF for German)

Academic records

Statement of Purpose/Motivation letter

Letter of recommendation

Research proposal (if applicable)

Proof of work experience

Eligibility Criteria:-

A strong GPA during undergraduate studies is important.

A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience.

Applicants must be from developing countries listed by DAAD.

Applicants must have proficiency in either English or German, depending on the course.

Courses and Duration:

PhD Programmes : Medical Research International Health, Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security, and Resource Nexus for Sustainability Transformations.

Master's Programs : Development Economics, Sustainable Development Management, International Health, Laws in Intellectual Property and Competition Law, and Master of Science in Global Urban Health.

Artistic Fields : Scholarships in Music, Performing Arts, Fine Art/Design/Film, and Architecture.

Duration : The scholarship can be availed for 10 to 24 months, depending on the programme length. Applicants must clearly state the required period in their application.

This scholarship offers a comprehensive package, making it an attractive option for those aspiring to further their education in Germany.

RECENT STORIES

Phd-Study-In-Germany

• Working in Germany: How To Find Work During and After Your Studies

Written by Taru Medha

With one of the fastest growing economies in Europe (and one of the lowest unemployment rates), it’s clear that Germany has an active job market with opportunities for everyone.

Whether you’re a postgraduate student in Germany looking for a casual job or a recent graduate looking to start full-time work, we’ve got you covered.

We’ve detailed everything you need to know about working in Germany, during or after your studies, including the kinds of jobs you can do, how to search for them and any restrictions that might apply to you.

Working while studying

Most students in Germany take up part-time work during their studies. Even though a postgraduate course in Germany is more affordable since tuition is (usually) free , a part-time job is a good way to cover your living costs.

How much can you work?

The German Federal Employment Agency has put in place a few restrictions for students looking for part time work. This is mainly to make sure that your work doesn’t hinder or delay your academic goals. What restrictions apply to you depends on your nationality:

• Students from EU/EEA: European students have unrestricted access to the job market and have the same rights as German students. You will, however, need to make the required insurance contributions if you work more than 20 hours a week. Even though there are no restrictions, you must not let your work impact or delay your academic goals.
• Students from other countries: Part-time work is capped at 140 full days or 280 half days in a year (without special consent from the Federal Employment Agency). If you need to work more than the allowed quota, you have to take permission from the Federal Employment Agency and the Foreigner’s Office.

What kind of work can you do?

Students in Germany can take up both on-campus or off-campus jobs while they study. Some of the most common ones are working as wait-staff, babysitters, or tutors. Even though these seem like the most obvious choices and are easy to secure, you also have a few other options.

Academic assistants

As an academic assistant, you’ll be working for an institute of higher education. This could be the university you’re studying at, but academic assistants work in university archives, libraries or in administration. Students can also work for academic staff at these institutions and are often called Hiwi’s or graduate assistants.

PhD students can also think about securing a job as a research assistant at universities or independent research institutions.

There is no limit to the number of hours you can work as an academic assistant, however, if you’re an international student, you will still have to inform the Foreigner’s Office about your working hours. You should bear in mind that working too much can have a negative impact on your studies.

Internships

Students are often keen to gain work experience while they study so they have a foundation to build on when they start looking for jobs after graduation. An internship is a good place to begin. You can work as an intern while you study even if you are an international student. However, an internship (whether paid or unpaid) is considered normal work and will be deducted from your work-day allowance.

How can you search for a job?

Your first port of call should be your university’s student services which are likely to have job vacancy listings on their websites or on notice boards around campus. They will also have information about any academic assistant jobs that might be available at your university.

If you’re looking for one of the off-campus jobs like waiting tables or working at bars, you can find such jobs listed on online job portals like LinkedIn, Make it in Germany job listings or the Federal Employment Agency job board .

Working after your studies

If you’ve just completed a postgraduate course in Germany, you may be thinking about entering the job market and settling down in the country. Germany has a lot to offer anyone looking for a job, with engineers, scientists and sustainability experts already in high demand.

However, depending on which country you are from, there might be some restrictions and considerations that you might want to keep in mind.

If you’re from EU/EEA

You have open access to everything the German job market has to offer, and you have the same rights as a German citizen. This means you can stay in the country to find and continue work for as long as you like.

If you’re from other countries

If you’re an international student who has just completed their postgraduate degree, you can apply for an 18-month permit which allows you to stay and look for work. However, you have to provide proof that you are in the process of finding work in your field of expertise and have the means to fund yourself in the meantime.

If you’re successful in securing a job in this time, you can then apply for a residence permit for the purpose of qualified work. Once you’ve been employed for some time and meet certain criteria, you can apply for a settlement status which gives you indefinite leave to stay and a citizenship after eight years.

You also have the option to apply for an EU Blue Card if you meet certain requirements. You must have completed a degree in Germany (or have a comparable degree) and have a binding employment contract. You must also earn at least €58,400 or €45,552 if you’re employed in STEM.

There is plenty of support available from your university’s career centre. Along with having job listings on their website, they can help you with any other concerns as your transition from a student to a working professional.

You can also visit the Federal Employment Agency online job portal or other online job listing websites like Make it in Germany or LinkedIn which is popular worldwide

Now that you know everything about finding a job in Germany, it is time to make a list of all the things you want to experience and spend your salary on while you’re in Germany, whether as a student or a working professional!

Find a PhD in Germany

Browse 70+ German PhDs in our programme finder

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice

This guide tells you all about everything you need to apply for a PhD programme in Germany.

There are no fees for PhD study at most German universities and funding is available from a range of government agencies, research societies and other organisations.

Want to study a PhD in Ireland? This guide gives a detailed introduction to the kind of visa you need to study in Ireland and how to apply for it.

What's it like to live in Germany during a PhD? Our guide covers accommodation, student living costs, working and other key information.

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