Professional Documents
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Career Prospects
Editorial 3
A doctorate is a decision for life, an investment in your future – but also a time-consuming
challenge that needs to be given careful consideration. A doctorate demands a great deal
of energy, discipline and perseverance. In Germany some 25,000 graduates successfully
complete the doctoral process every year – far more than in any other European country. Web addresses lead to more
Publisher And increasing numbers of up-and-coming international researchers are coming to detailed information on each
Germany to write their doctoral dissertations, to complete their doctorates as members of topic.
research teams: since 1997 the number of foreigners registered as doctoral students in
DAAD Germany has more than doubled to just under 17,000.
Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst
German Academic Exchange Service The German doctorate enjoys an outstanding reputation in all disciplines. And today Long versions of the interviews
Kennedyallee 50 universities and research institutions between Aachen and Zittau present young research- with experts are available online
53175 Bonn ers with many different paths to a doctorate. Especially the structured doctoral programmes at www.daad.de/promotion
Germany that have been established over recent years offer international graduates extremely attrac-
tive opportunities – as a member of a research team that provides intensive support and
Coordination: swift results. Nevertheless, there is no single ideal path to a doctoral degree. That is why
Alexander Haridi, Cornelia Hauswald, Section 532: Promotion of this brochure aims to present an overview of the different forms of doctoral research – from
Study and Research in Germany, Campaigns traditional individual supervision to the structured programmes at graduate schools, re-
search training groups and the International Max Planck Research Schools. It should also
Publishing House: help by providing a lot of useful information on the formal requirements as well as
Societäts-Verlag different forms of funding. International students who have decided to do a doctorate in
Frankenallee 71–81 Germany will also have their say: they report on their everyday routine and their experi-
60327 Frankfurt ences, offer tips and words of encouragement for other scholars considering taking up
Germany the challenge of doctoral research. Human resources consultant Dr. Tiemo Kracht con-
firms that this decision is worthwhile: “In any event, doing a doctorate in Germany is
Editors: a benefit.” However, he also explains that the important thing about a doctorate is not
Janet Schayan (responsible), the academic title, but the satisfaction of getting to grips with complex subject matter.
Gunda Achterhold, Dr. Sabine Giehle And that has its own lasting merit – irrespective of your subsequent career.
Design: Sylvia Bernhardt
Production: André Herzog We hope you have an enjoyable and informative read.
Translators: R.W. Culverhouse, Pauline Cumbers,
Derek Whitfield
Printer: Bonifatius GmbH, Paderborn 04 What Germany offers as a centre of 18 What you can do before you start
October 2009 higher education and research
20 Which forms of funding exist
© DAAD 06 Which paths lead to a doctorate
22 What is special about life in Germany
This publication was funded by the German Federal Foreign Office. 10 What structured programmes offer
26 How a doctorate can help your
12 What professors expect career
16 Where to do a doctorate
4 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Research in Germany 5
interchange with scholars and research in- stands out because of the close cooperation social sciences. Innovative researchers and An international comparison of completed
doctorates in the OECD countries (in absolute terms,
stitutions in and outside Germany. Germany is one of the world’s most attrac- between universities, research institutions prize-winners teach at German universi- 2006), source: OECD
tive centres of higher education: some and industry. Research institutions and ties. Humanities specialists and social
German Research Foundation (DFG) 235,000 foreigners study here (including business enterprises come together at the scientists have won 58 of the 270 Gottfried search schools and centres comparable to
The DFG is the central, self-governing re- 56,000 with a German school-leaving regional level in “excellence clusters” to Wilhelm Leibniz Prizes, the most highly Anglo-American graduate schools have al-
search organisation and the most impor- qualification). That means that more than pool their innovative force. That is also endowed German research award, that so been established in collaboration with
tant funder of research in Germany. one in ten students holds an international why Germany is one of the leading coun- have been presented since 1986. non-university institutions such as Max
passport and Germany is the most impor- tries in innovative, forward-looking re- Planck Institutes or the German Research
tant host country for international students search fields such as environmental tech- Structured doctoral programmes Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemein-
– after the USA and the UK. nology and nanotechnology. This applies to Doctoral students in Germany are part of schaft, DFG). Their structured doctoral
research and industry: for example, Ger- this research process. Gaining a doctorate programmes enrich the higher education
However, top research is not only conduct- many ranks third in relation to patent reg- is seen as the first phase of a research ca- system and expand the opportunities for Links
ed at universities. Hundreds of non-univer- istrations in nanotechnology and fourth in reer. That also explains how the traditional international students to gain a doctorate
process of attaining a German doctorate in Germany. www.daad.de
differs in many respects from the Anglo- The DAAD website offers everything you
American PhD system, in which the PhD Many scientific organizations and research need to know about higher education in
student merely acquires a degree. How institutions support young international Germany. A scholarship database helps
ever, German higher education is in the scholars with project funding, scholarships users find appropriate funding opportuni-
midst of a far-reaching process of renewal and prizes. The most important are the ties (German, English, Spanish).
and many universities already have what Federal Ministry of Education and Re-
are known as structured doctoral pro- search (BMBF), the DFG and the German www.research-in-germany.de
grammes and research training groups Academic Exchange Service (Deutscher This Internet portal is aimed at interna-
(Doktorandenkolleg). Additionally, re- Akademischer Austauschdienst, DAAD). tional scholars and provides a great deal
of useful information about the research
IncreasingImmer
Numbers
mehr of International
internationale Doctoralpromovieren
Doktoranden Students in
in Deutschland
Germany landscape in Germany. It also highlights
recent developments in German higher
18,000
education and offers advice and guidance
16,994 for research visits (German, English).
10,644
grammes and international collaborations
10,000 at this address. A database enables visi-
9,707
8,997 tors to search for doctoral programmes,
8,000
for example, or the names and addresses
of contacts at universities (German, Eng-
Modern surroundings: Norman Foster, the leading British architect, designed the Philological Library at FU Berlin 1999/00 2000/01 2001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 lish).
6 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Paths to a Doctorate
Finanzierung7
!
Graduate Schools Additionally, however, a second route to a who is also 27 years old, decided in favour variety of factors. “First of all, it depends dents two supervisors. That means their
The graduate schools established under doctoral degree is gaining in popularity and of this kind of structured doctoral pro- on the specialist interest,” says Dr. Birgit academic support does not depend on the
the auspices of the Excellence Initiative attracting increasing numbers of students: gramme. Klüsener, DAAD. “For practical reasons goodwill of a single professor. An interdis-
are much broader in scope and more
interdisciplinary in nature than the the
Pros and Cons: Traditional Doctorate Pros and Cons: Structured Doctoral Programmes
matically more focused research training
groups. Participants are integrated in a Although the “apprentice model” qualities as a mentor. It is useful to put Structured programmes quickly lead to in a variety of ways throughout the entire
team in which they regularly present their demands a high degree of individual ini- out feelers in the department early on, a doctoral degree – as a rule in three years. doctoral process. Assistance with every-
results. Admittance is dependent on a tiative, it also offers doctoral students a because word soon spreads about who day problems is also provided, as is
performance-based selection procedure. great deal of freedom and enables them successfully supports doctoral students. Supervision is carried out by several personal guidance.
Interviews are even conducted by video to shape their own doctoral research. university teachers. Doctoral students are
link for foreign students (see page 17). A traditional doctorate takes longer – not dependent on the goodwill of a single Applicants have to complete a multi-
It is particularly well suited for doctoral roughly four to five years. professor. level application procedure. That’s why
students who would like to study for a you must plan ahead and leave enough
doctorate with a specific professor. The subjects of doctoral dissertations Special emphasis is placed on team- time for the application process.
are frequently too specialized, too little work and practical application. Students
The traditional path offers great integrated into research frameworks. frequently work on joint research projects The programme of colloquia and
freedom in the choice of subject for the and have a lot of opportunity to exchange workshops is very packed. If you attempt
doctoral dissertation (particularly in You have to take care of funding views with other students and supervisors. to take all the options available, you can
the humanities and social sciences). yourself. easily overload your timetable.
The question of funding is often re-
Finding a suitable supervisor can There are few guidelines and doctoral solved by acceptance on the programme. The subject of your doctoral dissertation
prove difficult. He or she should be an students have to struggle through on must fit in with the programme; it is often
expert in the field, but also have certain their own. Foreign doctoral students are supported not possible to select your own subject.
8 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Paths to a Doctorate
Finanzierung9
Medicine
Whether they are involved in clinical, ex
perimental or theoretical research, medical
scientists usually take the traditional route
to a doctorate. Students should complete
their doctorate before beginning their
Differences between Subject Groups ciplinary framework also enables students only have to walk across the corridor to field of theoretical physics. He meets with posts and work with colleagues within strenuous internship. In research terms, a
The kind of doctorate candidates choose to look beyond their own noses. “Different discuss a question,” enthuses the Russian his supervisor twice a week, the working their respective department. This is a de- doctoral dissertation in medicine is more
depends on the subject: disciplines work within the graduate researcher. She makes full use of the group comes together once a week. The velopment that is now also emerging comparable with a diploma thesis and in
school, so I also have dealings with histori- graduate school’s many opportunities. differences between subject groups are in other disciplines. DAAD expert Birgit volves far less input than in other disci
Humanities and Social Sciences ans and ethnologists,” emphasizes English She has courses two or three days a week considerable: while humanities specialists Klüsener says, “In principle, the struc- plines.
Large, interdepartmental research projects studies specialist Ksenia Robbe. “I could and heads a seminar for students herself or social scientists often work on their tured doctoral programmes are fostering
are rarer here than in the natural sciences. already sense the open-minded work at- every Monday. It’s a voluntary arrange- doctorate alone, natural scientists and en- a culture that has always existed in the
Although the traditional apprentice model is mosphere on the website – that was a very ment, not an obligation. “I choose the gineers are more likely to have doctoral natural sciences.”
still prevalent, a growing interest in struc important criteria for me.” subjects myself and structure and devel-
tured programmes is evident here too. A op the course,” says Ksenia Robbe.
recent study focusing on international doc The programme in Giessen relies on Has the traditional supervisor gone out of style?
torates in Germany (HIS), which involved multilevel monitoring. Doctoral and post- For Douwe Bonthuis, who is taking the An interview with Nobel laureate Professor Erwin Neher
an online survey of doctoral students at 20 doc scholars from different disciplines traditional path to a doctorate, teaching is
universities, shows that so far some 15% of work together in what are known as “re- part of his contract. The Dutchman has Professor Neher, you are the speaker of the International Max Planck Research
humanities specialists are involved in struc search areas”. “Everyone can present his a part-time (three-quarters) post at the TU School (IMPRS) for Neurosciences in Göttingen. Do structured programmes rep-
tured programmes. One quarter of doctoral or her project in these courses and re- Munich and is well able to live on the resent a more attractive route to a doctorate than the traditional path?
students are employed as research assist ceives feedback from very different direc- salary. He has to teach five seminars, each Doctoral students used to be very much left to their own devices, which is not easy,
ants at university and non-university insti tions,” says Ksenia Robbe. Interchange of them on a different subject. In the especially for international candidates. The IMPRSs offer support that makes the
tutes. A little over half of all up-and-coming also functions very well on an informal beginning he was not very enthusiastic process easier. We help students find their feet, for example, by assisting them in
researchers in the humanities conduct their level because all the doctoral students are about this obligation. Today, however, their dealings with authorities or establishing contacts with fellow researchers.
research alone. in the same building. “It’s great that I he sees the advantages: “Seminars involve Link
a lot of work, but they offer a good op Has the traditional supervisor gone out of style?
portunity to gain teaching experience and It is a good system for the best, because it offers much greater freedom – provided the www.academics.com
Most Popular Doctorate Subjects
to revise fundamental principles.” The supervisor is committed. But that is not always the case. To that extent, supervision by The joint website of weekly newspaper
Biology 14.2%
natural scientist spends the remaining a committee with several members certainly has advantages. Having to present your Die Zeit and specialist journal Forschung
Chemistry 11.6%
time doing research – very traditionally – results before a commission once a year can add a healthy element of compulsion. & Lehre offers a lot of topical information
Medicine 10.6%
on his own. “In experimental physics, under the heading “Do a PhD”. This in
Physics 8.4%
of course, the situation is very different,” How are German doctoral degrees regarded internationally? cludes articles on the advantages and dis
Mechanical Engineering 4.0%
explains Douwe Bonthuis. “Work in In our subject, very highly indeed! In biochemistry and neurosciences successful doc- advantages of a traditional doctorate and
Electrical Engineering 3.7%
the laboratory is always done in a team, toral students from Germany are highly appreciated as postdoc researchers abroad. structured programmes, advice on appli
Subjects with the most doctorates by foreign you exchange opinions and discuss cations and funding as well as background
students, 2007 (of a total of 3,499 passed
your findings.” He decided very con- www.daad.de/promotion information on the differences between
examinations), source: Destatis
sciously in favour of a doctorate in the subjects (German, English).
10 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Paths to a Doctorate 11
How can foreign students who are interested in doing a doctorate in Germany
best use REx? Links
I’m doing a doctorate in the For an initial overview of the higher education institutions that offer your particular
environmental technology sector subject, you just have to select the subject and you will be presented with a list. The www.research-explorer.dfg.de
second step then leads to the website of the institute, which will present up-to-date Research Explorer is the research direc
and am investigating cost-benefit information and the relevant contacts. Cooperation with another partner, the Ger- tory of the DFG and DAAD. Continuously
analyses of waste water treatment man Rectors’ Conference (HRK), will make it possible to use REx to conduct direct updated, it includes details of some 20,000
plants. Water is an important subject in searches of doctoral study opportunities at higher education institutions from the institutes at German higher education in
beginning of 2010. stitutions and non-university research
my country. I need to exchange views establishments which can be searched ac
with other researchers. Next door there Can you describe the most effective way of carrying out a search? cording to geographical, subject and other
are statisticians and chemists – I can To gain an initial impression, you can first select a city from the map to see which structural criteria (German and English).
institutes are available at that location. If you want to find an institute with a specific
discuss results with them at any time. subject specialization, you use the Search Assistant to select a subject group. You www.helmholtz.de
can then gradually narrow down the area of research until you obtain the desired The Helmholtz Association provides infor
Jaime Cardona, Columbia result. mation on its website about vacancies for
The economist is completing a doctorate at doctoral students under the heading
the Helmholtz Interdisciplinary Graduate School www.daad.de/promotion “Working at Helmholtz” (German, English,
for Environmental Research in Leipzig. Chinese, Russian).
12 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Paths to a Doctorate
Finanzierung13 13
Meeting the Challenge An interview with Professor Marion Gymnich, University of Bonn
Moussa Sangare has just held a conference available when he needs him. This dia-
with his working group on Skype and logue is important for Sangare. Which is
exchanged ideas with five other doctoral why he cycles to his office at the Institute
Research Training Groups students about the next phase of their for Vocational Education as early as possi-
Doctoral research training groups com- research. The 39-year-old African has been ble every morning. Over the past weeks, he
bine elements of the traditional supervi- studying for a doctorate at the TU Dresden has taken advantage of every minute so as
sion of individual doctoral students with for the past two years. He is writing his to complete the theoretical part of his
the innovations of structured doctoral pro- doctoral dissertation on the quality of pri- work.
grammes. These groups are supported in vate universities in his country, Ivory
institutionalized form by an association of Coast. Regular exchanges of ideas in small He opens his laptop every day on the dot of
university professors whose aim is to working groups and scheduled lectures ten, works at his dissertation until early
jointly train and advise doctoral students. and seminars are part of the programme evening and then, to counterbalance this,
Compared with the traditional approach, offered by the research training group on does two hours of sport. After that, he
this improved supervision is intended to lifelong learning. This encourages net- works at his desk often until late into the
considerably shorten the time required to working and forms a clearly defined frame- night. He is surrounded by piles of books,
complete a doctorate. What is more, doc- work, thereby integrating significant com- which he was able to order and collect
toral research training groups offer more ponents of structured doctoral from the university library.
opportunities for feedback and help candi- programmes.
dates find their place in the scientific com- Moussa Sangare is a bit behind in his When I start on the theoretical part of my dissertation,
munity. This is ideal for overcoming the Dresden is another example of the trend schedule. He has a scholarship from the I’ll be in my university office every day and make sure my
frequent social and scientific isolation ex- towards graduate schools and postgraduate Hans Böckler Foundation, which supports
perienced by traditional doctoral students research groups that is catching on at Ger- the research training group. This political day is properly structured. I couldn’t work at home.
and minimizing the risks that can arise man universities. “We meet regularly for foundation also expects sociopolitical in-
during the doctoral process. Universities workshops and colloquia where we present volvement from its scholarship-holders, so Szilvia Major, Hungary
can concentrate their doctoral research our research findings,” says Sangare. The Sangare has already written a book about The sociologist is doing her doctorate at Giessen University and also advises foreign doctoral students.
training groups in centres for postgradu- doctoral students receive feedback from all the political situation in his country. Now
ate studies. four professors in the participating depart- he has to make up for the time he devoted
ments. These research groups are small to that publication. The scholarship is for
and the working language is German – three years, during which he has to com- date works three times a week as a aration.” Anyone like Szilvia Major who German
which is no problem for the African stu- plete his dissertation. “At the moment, my counsellor for foreign doctoral students at aims to study for a doctorate on the basis Although you can get by with English in
dent, who studied German and trained as best friend is discipline.” the University of Giessen. She is clear of the traditional “apprentice model” relies many doctoral programmes and in most
a teacher of German in Abidjan. “If I do about her career goal: “I would like to work heavily on the commitment of a single uni- university towns, you will miss out on
have a question, I simply have to go to my Sociologist Szilvia Major is planning to in partnership counselling, which is what versity professor. Given that she is a coun- many aspects of everyday life if you have
colleagues next door and they help me im- take a lot more time for her doctoral disser- my dissertation focuses on.” The 27-year- sellor for international doctoral students, no knowledge of German. And don’t for-
mediately.” His doctoral supervisor, who tation on long-term partnerships. To fi- old is taking the traditional doctoral path, she hears many a lament about this partic- get that German is an important language
already supervised his Master’s, is also nance her doctorate, the Hungarian candi- so she is able to combine writing her dis- ular topic. Her own experience, however, is of business and research. More than 100
sertation with a part-time job at her univer- that a committed university professor can million people speak German as their
sity’s International Office. “I think it’s im- have a great impact, even within the tradi- mother tongue and another 24 million
portant that I gather practical experience tional doctoral framework. “My professor’s people worldwide can speak the language.
while writing my dissertaion – even if it doctoral students all meet twice a month
takes longer as a result.” for a weekend where he lives to present
their research findings,” says Major. They
My best friend is discipline. I Szilvia Major is reckoning with a period of stay at the local youth hostel. “It’s not ob-
would like to complete my four or five years to complete her doctor- ligatory, but it’s very useful.”
doctorate quickly. We regularly ate: “I’m still in the reading phase, when I
can occasionally take a book with me to the Szilvia Major is married to a Hungarian
discuss our findings in work- swimming pool,” she says. But when she trainee doctor. They don’t know if they Link
shops, which I find very helpful. starts on the theoretical part, she intends to want to return to Hungary. Moussa San-
work in her office at the university every gare on the other hand is very keen to fin- blog.scholarz.net
Moussa Sangare, Ivory Coast morning and to lock her door from midday ish his doctorate for personal reasons. He Everything on this communication plat-
The German teacher is doing his doctorate at the to devote herself fully to her dissertation. has three children he only sees once a year. form for junior researchers revolves
research training group on lifelong learning at the She is convinced this is a good plan: “That “My goal is to return home immediately af- around studying for a doctorate and writ-
TU Dresden. way, the day is structured. But it all re- ter my doctorate to work there at the uni- ing a doctoral dissertation. Also of interest
quires self-discipline, which is why I could versity and be able to lead a normal family are the posts on “working scientifically in
never work at home. I need the spatial sep- life.” Web 2.0” (German, English).
16 Doing
Promovieren
a Doctorate
in Deutschland
in Germany Locations 17
Higher Education and Rankings cities. Rankings do not traditionally play Research Training Groups and Inter- a group at the German university and a
a great role in students’ choice of universi- national Research Training Groups partner group abroad. Doctoral students
The German higher education system of- ty. Reliable rankings based on various draw up a personal doctoral plan with a
Higher Education and fers a wide range of different institutions. indicators of academic performance and The German Research Foundation (DFG) fixed time frame in conjunction with their Binational Doctoral Programmes
Education Policy Germany’s 360 higher education institu- quality have only been produced for a currently supports 227 research training professors. Study and research pro- Binational doctoral programmes, also
Germany is a federation of 16 Länder, tions include universities, technical univer- few years. The following rankings can be groups (Graduiertenkolleg, GRK), including grammes are developed jointly and the known as cotutelle programmes, involve
or states, each of which has its own, sities, colleges of art, music and film as recommended: 58 international research training groups doctoral students are supervised by two cooperation in the supervision of doctoral
although limited sovereignty. The Fed- well as the universities of applied sciences (IGK). One or more international universi- professors, who belong to different univer- candidates between (at least) one interna-
eration and the Länder cooperate on (Fachhochschule, FH), which, however, do www.che-ranking.de ties cooperate with a German university sities. Additionally, bilateral doctoral tional university and one German univer-
educational matters, but fundamentally not have the right to award doctorates. Aca- www.dfg.de/ranking in the international research training support entails a six-month stay abroad sity. As a rule, this includes working visits
education policy, which also includes demic excellence is not only found in big www.humboldt-foundation.de/ranking groups. Doctoral students are supported by with the respective partner. to produce the doctoral dissertation at the
the administration of higher education participating institutions as well as the
institutions, is largely the responsibility participation of external supervisors in the
of the Länder. The Federation is primarily final doctoral examination process. Per-
responsible for the fields of educational Flensburg manent partnerships have been formed,
research, vocational training, further train- for example, in the international research
ing as well as degrees and research fund- 3 Kiel training groups supported by the DFG and
ing at higher education institutions. Schleswig-
2 Rostock Greifswald the 25 Franco-German graduate colleges
Holstein organized under the umbrella of the
Lübeck
Mecklenburg-Western Franco-German University (FGU). Howev-
Pomerania er, this process does not conclude with
7 Hamburg
Hamburg the award of a “binational” doctorate, but
Bremen Lüneburg a doctoral degree gained on the basis of
Oldenburg 2 Bremen
German examination regulations.
Brandenburg
Lahr Baden-
Ulm outside Germany. In September 2009 the change between doctoral students and pro- Research Schools (German, English).
Augsburg
Universities with the right to Württemberg proportion of international doctoral stu- fessors of related subject areas. Fast-track
award doctorates 5 Munich
2 3 Freiburg Trossingen Martinsried Garching dents among the 2,100 IMPRS partici- programmes can enable especially highly www.helmholtz.de/
Cities with several universities Weingarten Seewiesen-
with the right to award doctorates Starnberg pants was 53%. The doctoral examination qualified candidates to start at the graduate graduiertenschulen-kollegs
Weilheim-
Excellence Initiative Graduate Bierbronnen Friedrichs- Benediktbeuern can be completed either at a German high- school after only one Master’s year. The ex- The Helmholtz Association supports
Konstanz hafen
Schools er education institution or the student’s amination can also usually be completed in young researchers in graduate schools
International Max Planck
Research Schools home university. English. and research schools (German, English).
18 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Requirements 19
Anyone who wants to study for a doctorate ceptance as a doctoral student. As a rule
in Germany has to have a recognized you need a certificate from your supervisor,
university degree. This usually means certified qualification documents, and a
Recognition of a having a qualification equivalent to a Mas- certificate recognizing that your university Doctoral Regulations
University Degree ter’s degree, or a German Magister, Dip- certificates make you eligible for doctoral These contain the most important aca-
Applications for recognition of university lom or Staatsexamen. In exceptional cases studies. The next step is enrolment for a demic and departmental rules governing
degrees can be made at the dean’s office, you may also be accepted as a doctoral can- doctoral degree course. However, you do the doctorate procedure. They cover ad-
the respective department’s doctoral ad- didate with a Bachelor’s degree. The next not have to enrol for doctoral studies in all What does an application to become a doctoral student need to be success- mission to a doctoral programme, admis-
missions board or the university’s interna- step is to find a supervisor – a Doktorvater subject areas. It depends on the respective ful? An Interview with Professor Sandra Klevansky, Director of the Graduate sion conditions (degree qualifications,
tional office. In some cases, final admis- or Doktormutter in German – or to apply department’s doctoral regulations, which School of Fundamental Physics at Heidelberg University grades, etc.), regulations on submitting
sion to the doctoral process is made for a place in a structured doctoral pro- everyone should read through very carefully. the dissertation and drawing up expert
dependent on a further examination to es- gramme. They can be found on every department’s Professor Klevansky, what requirements do doctoral students have to meet in Ger- opinions, as well as the details of the oral
tablish whether the candidate has an website. Enrolment as a doctoral student many – apart from the academic ones? examination.
equivalent level of proficiency to that of a At present the most common path to a doc- has many advantages – for example, a bet- First and foremost they have to be able to work independently and autonomously. This
German qualification. Law faculties fre- torate in Germany involves working under ter status under Aliens Law. Admission to is important in Germany. DSH
quently make additional demands result- the supervision of a professor. Everyone the course of study is a prerequisite. This The German Language Examination for
ing from the differences in curricula relat- has to decide for themselves which field of is usually issued by the registrar’s office on What should an application for acceptance as a doctoral student include in order to University Admission (DSH) consists of a
ing to respective national legal systems. research they want to pursue, and which submission of your qualifications, the cer- be successful? And what mistakes can be avoided in advance? written and an oral exam and is usually
universities and professors are on their tificate of recognition and – if necessary – We expect outstanding grades, a comprehensive application with all the necessary docu- free of charge. Some universities charge
Studying for a Doctorate short list. The potential doctoral student proof of your language skills. You have to mentation (certificates, transcripts of records, references) – and a clearly formulated inter- fees. An alternative is to furnish proof of
with a Bachelor’s Degree then has to apply personally to these uni- provide evidence of your knowledge of est in the subject. Applicants should not take an unprepared, naïve approach. They should having passed an examination in your
Particularly well-qualified foreign appli- versity professors. It is important to do so German (DSH or TestDaF examinations) if find out how the process in Germany differs from studying for a doctorate in their own home country according to the TestDaF
cants can also be admitted to doctoral in good time, preferably in person (or in your dissertation is to be written in Ger- country in order to avoid unnecessary surprises – for example, that doctoral students do procedure (www.testdaf.de).
studies with a Bachelor’s degree. As a writing) – and you should be well-prepared man. This is by no means always the case, not only conduct research but may also have to attend courses or give lectures.
rule, admission is subject to an aptitude with information about your previous and it depends upon the respective doctoral Residence Permit
test. This is usually preceded by a one- background and academic performance degree regulations. All doctoral students from non-EU coun-
www.daad.de/promotion
year preparation period. Individual univer- and your academic goals. “Well-prepared” tries or countries outside the European
sities decide on the procedure and access also means that you should already have a In principle, if you are applying for a place Economic Area require a residence permit.
to it. Decisions on admission are always brief synopsis of the doctoral dissertation in a structured doctoral programme or at a It is issued by the local aliens authority
taken on a case-by-case basis. Candidates you are planning to write. Then you have research training group or graduate school, letter of application – with your CV, first definitely not enter the country on a tourist (Ausländeramt), where you can also ob-
should therefore contact the responsible to convince your chosen supervisor to you will have to take similar steps. In this degree thesis, a synopsis of your planned visa. This cannot be converted later, and tain the application for a residence permit.
faculty. Regulations can also be found in accept you. After all, the relationship be- case, however, the application for the pro- dissertation and the reasons for your appli- you may be forced to return to your home A residence permit is always limited to a
the respective department’s doctoral tween supervisor and doctoral student gramme takes top priority. The research cation – is submitted to the responsible country. certain time period, but can be extended.
degree regulations. is supposed to last several years – usually subject for the planned doctoral disserta- dean’s office or school. You may then be The application for renewal must always
three to five – and involves a lot of work tion must fit in with the main focus of the asked to submit a detailed application with Top of the to-do list on arriving in Germany be submitted before the permit expires.
for both sides. programme, and students must have grad- a more comprehensive synopsis and at is registering with the local residents’ reg-
uated with a “good” or “very good” grade in least two references from university teach- istration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) or
Once you have found a supervisor, the an examination that is recognized in Ger- ers. The third stage usually consists of a citizens’ service centre (Bürgerservice).
most important step has been taken. The many. The application, which can often be personal interview. The programme and Everyone has to register there. Furthermore,
responsible department or the doctoral made over the Internet, usually – but not college websites provide information on if you don’t come from an EU country, Ice-
admissions board must confirm your ac- always – proceeds in several stages. First, a the exact procedures. If your application is land, Norway or Liechtenstein, you also
successful, you will take part in a doctoral have to go to the local aliens authority
programme with seminars and tutorials (Ausländeramt) to apply for a residence Links
geared to a doctoral student’s needs, and permit. For this you need proof of your
Seven Steps to Becoming a Doctoral Student be given individual supervision by a team health insurance (you also need this for en- www.internationale-studierende.de
of university professors. A personal tutor is rolment, see page 22). You will automatically Comprehensive and very useful informa-
If neces- If necessary, usually available to help with formalities. have health insurance cover if you have a tion for international students provided by
Find and convince If neces- contract of employment. It is also important Deutsches Studentenwerk, the student
sary, apply apply for admis-
a supervisor, sary, apply Practical advice to look for a place to live early enough. You services organization (German, English).
Apply for for accept- sion to the doc-
or apply to join for admis- If necessary, Irrespective of whether you will be study- usually need a certificate of enrolment to
recognition ance as a toral process (at
Degree a doctoral sion to a enrol as a ing with a supervisor or in a structured get a place in a student hostel. Student ser www.research-in-germany.de/faq
of your doctoral some universi-
programme or course doctoral student programme, the bureaucracy is the same vices will help with accommodation. Doc- This central website on research in Ger-
degree student in ties this is not
research training of studies for everyone. Future doctoral students toral students also need a current account. many offers an information brochure
the depart- necessary until
group from non-EU countries need the appropri- You can open one at any bank or savings “FAQs – Prepare your research stay”, which
ment later)
ate visa to enter the country. They should bank – it is usually free of charge. you can download as a PDF file (English).
20 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Funding 21
funded by a foundation that specifi- How can people find the right foundation for a doctoral project? origin and academic status (German, Eng-
You won’t find all foundations in the scholarship databases. You have to search indi- lish, Spanish).
cally supports development coopera- vidually. That is often difficult for foreigners because many foundations have only
tion in the field of renewable energies. a German website. But it’s worth investing some time here. Supply often exceeds www.euraxess.de
I’m grateful for these very good condi- demand, especially in the case of small foundations. The “funding database” of the Alexander
von Humboldt Foundation also includes
tions, because I want to research my What do the foundations expect of their scholarship-holders? programmes for visiting researchers (Ger-
subject as thoroughly as possible. Foundations want to promote success, so they are looking for an important piece of man, English).
work that really has an impact, a leverage effect and continues having an influence after
the scholarship period. Conversely, foundations do not only offer their students finan- www.stipendienlotse.de
Patricia Chaves, Brazil cial support, but also strong networks – and that can be very important “social capital”. This well-structured database can be used
The engineer is doing a doctorate at Oldenburg University. www.daad.de/promotion to make a detailed, targeted search for cur-
rent scholarship programmes (German).
22 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Living in Germany 23
Cosmopolitan or Cozy:
Living in Germany
Most weekends, Yang Ji and his wife a two-room apartment in the student dis-
Hang Zhao can be seen riding around on trict of Schwabing. “The owner is a gradu-
Cost of Living their bikes. They cycle through the Eng- ate of the TU Munich,” Ji says, “so we
According to a survey by the Deutsches lish Garden or to the Olympic Park, have something in common.”
Studentenwerk, an average student in stretch out on the grass and enjoy the
Germany has about 770 euros a month summer. “Munich is a very beautiful Yang Ji is employed as a research assistant
at his or her disposal. Of this, 266 euros city,” says the Chinese computer science at the Computation in Engineering Depart-
is spent on rent, 147 euros on food and graduate, who is studying for his doctor- ment. There are no fixed working hours.
50 euros on clothing. The average stu ate at the TU Munich. “The people are “We come in between nine and ten in the
dent spends 82 euros a month on travel; open, the environment is very interna- morning and work until six in the
health insurance costs 54 euros. Tele tional, and everything is very green here.” evening.” The computer scientist spends
phone, Internet, radio and TV fees add up After graduating from the Friedrich the early evening with his wife. He then
to 43 euros. Another 35 euros is needed Schiller University, Jena, in 2007, Ji had takes care of some organizational work at
for equipment and study materials such two offers of a doctoral position, one in home, filling in forms or preparing a semi-
as books. That leaves 62 euros for leisure, Munich and one in Stuttgart. He let his nar. “At the beginning there was a minor
culture and sport – so that the monthly newly married wife decide – it wasn’t a crisis between us,” he says. “I had so many
costs average 739 euros. difficult choice for her. Hang Zhao had things to do at the same time, and my
first come to Munich as a student in 2001 thoughts were elsewhere in the evenings.”
Health Insurance to take German courses. “I still have It’s a major challenge for many scientists
Everyone must have health insurance in many friends here from that time.” She to make progress with their own research
Germany. Proof of health insurance is subsequently went to Jena to study Ger- while assisting with exercises or work-
required both for enrolment at the univer man as a foreign language. shops at the same time. The TU Munich
sity and for your residence permit. You therefore offers targeted training courses
can be insured with either a statutory or for all doctoral students, where they can
Main Countries of Origin
a private health insurance company. The improve their skills in presentation and
terms vary, depending on the purpose of
China 8.2%
personal time management. “These We enjoyed living in Jena. A small town has the
India 7.1%
residence and your age. Student services
Poland 5.1%
courses have helped me a lot,” Ji stresses. advantage that you can settle in more easily. But we
have more details on this. “I’ve learned to set priorities and work my
Russia 4.9%
way through one thing after another in a
also like Munich very much – especially its inter-
Italy 3.9%
concentrated way.” national flair and the mentality of the people here.
Greece 3.5%
Romania 3.4%
The atmosphere is very relaxed in his de- Ji Yang and Hang Zhao, China
Austria 3.3%
partment, he says. “It doesn’t matter what The computer scientist is studying for his doctorate at the TU Munich; his wife Hang Zhao
France 3.0%
country you come from. Everyone is re- is studying in Munich and Jena.
Turkey 2.7%
garded as a colleague.” His teammates also
The most common countries of origin of foreign doc-
toral students, 2007 (from a total of 3,499 examina-
have things in common apart from re-
tions passed), source: Destatis search. They do sport and go hiking in the
mountains together. Once a week they just 19 years old at that time. He tried to staff – it was a bit like a family. You can Links
Moving from the small university town in cook together with the professor in the in- speak a lot of German from the beginning. settle in more easily.” In Munich, by con-
Thuringia to the Bavarian capital in stitute kitchen. “It’s a good opportunity to “Most people react very patiently and open- trast, everything is much more interna- www.daad.de/aaa
southern Germany was quite a change for exchange ideas over lunch and sometimes ly, and they’re friendly about helping you – tional, he says. But the couple like that, The DAAD’s database lists the international
the young couple. “In Jena, it’s easy to have a laugh about everyday academic life,” there’s no need to have inhibitions.” too: “I can go out for a Chinese or Thai or offices (Akademische Auslandsämter)
find an apartment for 200 euros at the says the doctoral student. “For example, Vietnamese meal here. You can find sim- at German universities. They can help you
most,” they explain. “We lived in a student about the bureaucracy in Germany,” he His wife, Hang Zhao is just about to fin- ply everything – even speciality food with key issues of higher education and
hostel and didn’t pay much.” But the cost adds mischievously. ish her course of study. She’s writing her shops,” says Yang Ji. everyday life (English, German, Spanish).
of living varies quite a lot in Germany, thesis in Munich and travels to Jena by
and Munich is one of the most expensive The scientists talk English among them- train every two weeks to keep appoint- Furthermore, he is particularly fond of www.deutsch-uni.com
cities in the country. The rents are high, selves and the working group is very inter- ments at the university there. Ji feels it the mentality of people in the Alpine foot- This website compiled by the German-as-
and finding a place to live is difficult. “The national and diverse. “Even so, it’s very, was a great advantage that he spent his hills. “I love Munich because the Bavari- a-foreign-language experts at LMU in
university’s international office helps in- very important to learn German,” says first years in Germany in a smaller city ans have a culture and identity of their Munich makes it easy to find courses for
ternational doctoral students in their Yang Ji. He came to Germany eight years where everything was within comfortable own and are so proud of it,” says Yang Ji. learning German at home on your own
search,” says Ji. He himself quickly found ago from north China to study for the Ger- reach. “I used to walk the same route And, of course, he also appreciates the computer. Some of the courses are
a place on his own through an Internet man Abitur (school-leaving) exam and from my room to the campus every day; I famous beer. “I think the Oktoberfest is personally supervised by tutors (in six
website. The scientist pays 780 euros for learn German at a college in Jena. He was knew the lady at the bakery and the library great!” languages).
24 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Living in Germany 25
!
Pros and Cons: Doing a Doctorate in a Big City Pros and Cons: Doing a Doctorate in a Small Town Links
Anyone who likes opera, theatre, Yet all these advantages have their You’re more likely to get value for Small towns are quieter, but also www.thesis.de
e xhibitions and big-city bustle in gener- price. Rents are high, as is the general money here. Apartments are cheaper and more provincial. The range of cultural This interdisciplinary network for doctoral
al will love cities like Berlin, Munich, cost of living. The capital Berlin, of all often easier to find than in big cities. events is more limited (but the quality and postdoc students already has about
Cologne, Hamburg or Frankfurt. places, is an exception here: living in This is a major advantage, especially for isn’t necessarily poorer). 600 members. They are organized in local
Berlin is much cheaper than in other families. and regional networks and also meet
Shopping is almost like being home; major German cities or comparable Eu- There are usually fewer international for regular get-togethers and events (Ger
the cosmopolitan flair of big cities also ropean capitals. It’s often easier to settle in here: every- restaurants and grocery stores. man).
rubs off on the kind of shops that are thing is much smaller, less complicated,
available. It’s no problem here to find A new language, new surroundings, you can find your way around quickly And although major corporations www.internationale-studierende.de
international specialities. new job, little free time. Finding your and are soon meeting familiar faces. don’t settle exclusively in metropolitan The Deutsches Studentenwerk website
way around as a newcomer in a big city areas, they do tend to be more concen- has collected lots of tips for a smooth start
Large cities usually also have a high isn’t easy. Get on your bike! Being close to nature trated there. This is a drawback when to your time in Germany under the head
concentration of international compa- is one of the great advantages of the more you’re looking for a potential employer. ing “On arrival” (German, English).
nies. This is particularly interesting for And you need a lot of luck if you rural towns.
people who want to do a doctorate in a bring your family with you, because Longer travel times to the nearest air- www.studenten-wg.de
company or make job contacts at an crèches and nurseries are completely Typical university towns like Heidel- port. You can use the search function here
early stage. overrun in many city districts. It can be berg, Freiburg or Constance have a to look for apartments or rooms in shared
difficult to find childcare places. strong student infrastructure. apartments throughout Germany
(German).
26 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Career Opportunities 27
A doctoral degree takes a lot of time, a lot Top Universities for Doctorates As a postdoc researcher
of effort and it means waiting several
years before you can start your first real
by Foreign Students in Berlin I’ll gain even
University of Heidelberg 6.5%
Careers in Higher Education job. Whether all this effort is worth it de- LMU Munich 5.2%
more experience in my
Since education in Germany is a matter pends both on your subject area and your University of Göttingen 4.2% subject area. Later I wish
for the Länder, or states, it can be worth- career plans. A doctorate is a prerequisite
while to keep an eye on German geogra- for a career in research or higher educa-
TU Munich 3.3%
to advance my career as a re-
German universities with the most doctorates by
phy in your career planning: according to tion, which can, for example, begin with a foreigners, 2007 (out of a total of 3,499 passed searcher in India. I would
examinations), source: Destatis
calculations by the specialist journal For- post as junior professor. Natural scientists then like to initiate interdisci-
schung & Lehre, the remuneration of pro- will also not get very far in German indus-
fessors can fluctuate by up to 15% from try without one. A Dr. med degree is sectors in which a Dr. phil is a definite
plinary projects with col-
one state to the next. almost obligatory for physicians who want advantage – for example, in publishing or leagues from India and Ger-
to get off to a good start in their profes- in senior library administration. Large many.
Junior Professors sion and they usually complete the neces- law firms and business consultancies also
This is an attractive alternative to complet- sary research paper during their university place great emphasis on a doctoral degree.
Dr. Jayaseelan Murugaiyan, India
ing a Habilitation, the German postdoctor- studies. A doctorate does not only document an
The biochemist completed a doctorate in
al degree that traditionally entitles its ability to thoroughly investigate a complex
Leipzig and is now starting postdoc research
holder to become a professor: junior pro- Yet a doctoral degree is by no means a subject. It also looks good on a business
at the Free University in Berlin.
fessorships enable outstanding young re- prerequisite for climbing to the top of the card.
searchers to teach and research at Ger- career ladder: the closer a job is to the
man universities without Habilitation. product or the customer, the less impor- Fundamentally, the proportion of senior
There are already some 800 junior profes- tant a doctorate. A doctorate tends to play managers with doctoral degrees is above
sors. In addition to junior professorships, a rather secondary role in achieving a suc- average in Germany. In certain operational
posts are also available for heads of cessful start in sales, marketing or prod- sectors in industry – for example, research
groups of young researchers – for exam- uct management, says Dr. Ulrich Langer and development – applicants with doctor- After studying at the Lomonosov Moscow A survey conducted by Hochschul-Infor- Postdocs
ple, under the auspices of the Emmy of the graduate team at the Federal Em- ates are preferred. “Without a doctorate I State University, Natalia Ragozina complet- mations-System GmbH (HIS) documents Germany offers a raft of research scholar-
Noether Programme of the DFG, in the ployment Agency in Düsseldorf. “In these would never have become laboratory man- ed a doctorate in pharmaceutical analysis the great significance holders of doctorates ships for highly qualified international
Helmholtz Association and in the Max fields, practical skills like eloquence or the ager,” explains Dr. Natalia Ragozina. The at the German partner university in Mar- attach to the character-building aspect: postdoc researchers that open the door
Planck Society. There are also postdoc re- ability to handle customers are more im- 31-year-old Russian is responsible for a burg. “The German degree definitely a dissertation is viewed as a vehicle for for the next step in their research careers.
searchers who lead groups within one de- portant than formal qualifications.” Even team of five employees at the Boehringer helped me find a job,” she says. “It’s sim- personal study and an opportunity to work DFG research scholarships enable post-
partmental unit. Selection procedures, in the humanities the situation is more Ingelheim pharmaceutical company. “At ply easier for local companies here to as- on an interesting subject. That is an aspect docs of all disciplines to work on their
framework conditions and funding differ complex that it might initially seem. In first, of course, taking responsibility for sess the quality of the training.” that employers also highly appreciate (see own project in cooperation with a selected
very considerably. The jobs with the view of the uncertain prospects on the staff is a very new experience for research- page 29). research host, for example, for a period
Helmholtz Association have a tenure track, labour market there are very considerable ers,” says the chemist. “As a rule, however, Dr. Jayaseelan Murugaiyan, a biochemist of up to two years. In 2008, 355 of these
which offers career security. dangers involved in delaying entry into candidates with doctorates immediately who studied for a doctorate in Leipzig, is Gaining a doctorate has a corresponding- projects were supported. The DAAD also
the world of work. Nevertheless, there are start working in a managerial position.” also sure his doctoral degree from an inter- ly positive impact on a career. The re- awards postdoc scholarships; applications
nationally recognized German university spondents of the HIS survey gained a def- can be submitted during the final phase of
will make it easier for him to make a name inite advantage. Above all, doctoral graduates a doctorate. The Alexander von Humboldt
for himself in specialist circles. He is in in the natural sciences, medicine and law Foundation and many other foundations
the process of moving to Berlin, where he saw their career prospects improved by a are also good addresses for postdoc
has accepted a postdoc position at the Free doctorate. Especially the self-employed – researchers who want to realize their own
University. “As a member of staff at a Ger- for example, doctors or lawyers – and research projects.
man university with a doctoral degree I can economic scientists in commercial occu-
develop interesting contacts with other pations found they received greater recog-
researchers in the biotechnology field,” he nition from customers, clients and busi-
says. “That’s an important basis for later ness partners. However, a doctorate does
being able to initiate exciting interdiscipli- not only open doors, it also pays off finan-
nary projects with colleagues from India cially. According to a recent study by
and Germany. That’s my objective.” Kienbaum Executive Consultants, gradu-
ates without a doctorate receive a gross
The vast majority of holders of doctorates annual salary of 43,500 euros. So-called
believe their doctoral dissertation was a high potentials with international experi-
worthwhile investment – and not only as a ence and very good degrees can earn
springboard for their future career. They between 45,000 and 50,000 euros. The
Doctorate wanted: German industry prefers applicants with doctorates in areas like research and development place a high value on the personal benefit. annual salary for graduates with doctor-
28 Doing a Doctorate in Germany Career Opportunities 29
www.daad.de/sommerkurse www.facts-about-germany.de and promote cooperation between national associations of junior re- www.stipendiumplus.de
The database assists in finding the right summer course at a German “Facts about Germany” provides background information on all as- searchers. Its website offers news and information and publishes de- This website presents the 11 organizations funded by the Federal
university – the ideal opportunity to get to know Germany and its high- pects of life in Germany. An entire chapter is devoted to education and tails of events and the reports of various work groups. (English). Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) to foster young talent
er education system. Courses cover subjects ranging from German-as- research (in 17 languages). as well as their common goals and the criteria for and content of
a-foreign-language to engineering. Most of these courses, which are blog.scholarz.net their support programmes. It offers an overview of the various pro-
especially designed for international students, take place between www.magazine-deutschland.de Everything on the communication platform for junior researchers re- grammes and naturally also provides links to the individual organ
June and September. However, there are also some programmes The website of Deutschland magazine offers reports, articles and back- volves around the subject of doing a doctorate as well as experiences izations (German).
available in winter (German, English). ground information about topical themes in German politics, culture and insights gained while writing a doctoral dissertation (German,
and science (in 10 languages). English). www.stipendienlotse.de
www.academics.com The “scholarship pilot” is a new and very clearly structured easy-to-
This website, which is run by the weekly newspaper Die Zeit and high- www.studenten-wg.de www.dab-ev.org use scholarship database of the Federal Ministry of Education and Re-
er education journal Forschung & Lehre offers information on doing a An Internet accommodation exchange enables students to look for The website of the German Federation of University Women is specifi- search (BMBF). Doctoral students can find detailed information about
doctorate in Germany as well as an up-to-date overview of vacancies apartments and rooms in shared apartments nationwide free of charge cally aimed at female researchers and also offers contacts to regional current scholarship programmes on the basis of various parameters
for doctoral students at German universities (German, English). (German). networks (German). (German).