PhD Research
Do you have a master’s degree, or are you about to graduate? A PhD could be the perfect opportunity to explore a topic that fascinates you in greater depth. On this page, you’ll discover what a PhD entails and what you need to consider.
What is a PhD?
A PhD is the highest academic degree you can earn. It demonstrates your ability to conduct independent, in-depth scientific research.
As a PhD researcher (doctoral candidate), you will carry out innovative and independent research over several years on a specific scientific problem. You’ll develop expertise in your subject and gradually build your research skills.
Your research results are presented in a doctoral thesis. This can be a monograph – a coherent work in book form – or a collection of peer-reviewed academic articles, possibly supplemented with book chapters. Your PhD journey concludes with a public defence of your thesis.
PhD degrees at our faculty
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Doctor of Criminological Sciences
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Doctor of Law
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Doctor of Maritime Science
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Doctor of Notarial Law
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Interdisciplinary PhD: You can also obtain a joint doctorate in two (or more) disciplines at Ghent University. This requires at least one supervisor from each involved discipline.
Why start a PhD?
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Deep dive into a research question
Explore a scientific issue in depth and contribute to new knowledge. -
Develop and strengthen your skills
Improve your research, writing, and critical thinking abilities, and build on your existing expertise. -
A great deal of autonomy
You manage your own time – independence is key. -
Opportunities abroad
A PhD can open doors to international research, conferences, and networking.
How to begin your PhD journey
To begin a PhD, you need the following:
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A supervisor: a professor or researcher who will guide you. You can find potential supervisors through our research explorer or research groups
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A research topic: a clearly defined subject you wish to investigate
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Faculty approval: the faculty must formally accept your application
Doctoral training programme
The faculty’s PhD training programme supports you throughout your doctoral journey and helps you develop your research skills. It focuses on skill development, connection, and researcher wellbeing.
More information
Explore Ghent University’s full PhD offering
Questions?
Contact our research policy advisor Dr. Arne Vandenbogaerde: arne.vandenbogaerde@ugent.be