University of Graz·Social and Economic Sciences
Doctor of Philosophy (Dr. rer. soc. oec.)
This Doctoral Programme focuses on the independent development of research interests and enhances methodological skills through rigorous academic exploration. Students are encouraged to engage deeply with their subjects, contributing to knowledge and innovation in social and economic fields. This program prepares graduates for a successful academic career through comprehensive training and research opportunities.
In the Doctoral Programme of Social and Economic Sciences, students study a wide range of topics related to social and economic theories, methodologies, and empirical research. The program emphasizes critical reflection and holistic thinking within these fields, equipping scholars to engage deeply with contemporary issues.
The program is structured over 6 semesters of full-time study and culminates in the writing of a doctoral thesis. Students engage in research under the supervision of experienced faculty, fostering a collaborative academic environment and allowing for discussions that enrich their research process.
Graduates will develop advanced methodological and analytical skills in social and economic sciences. They will gain the ability to conduct independent research and contribute to scholarly debates, along with the expertise necessary for authorship of publications at an internationally recognized level.
No tuition
EU/EEA students, within the standard study period (plus the ~€25 ÖH student union fee per semester).
€727 / semester
Non-EU / third-country rate. Always confirm on the official site.
€ 25,20 ÖH-Beitrag plus gegebenenfalls anfallende Studiengebühren im Umfang von € 363,36 bzw. € 726,72
Third-country (non-EU/EEA) applicants generally need to have their prior qualifications legalised and translated for the admission application. Exact rules depend on the country that issued each document — always confirm with the university's admissions office.
Program-specific items — a CV, letter of motivation, an entrance exam (e.g. GMAT, GRE, SAT) or a portfolio — vary by degree. Check this program's requirements above and its official page.
The level of legalisation your certificates need depends on your country of origin:
Apostille
If your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, an Apostille from the competent authority of the issuing country is sufficient.
No legalisation
A small number of countries have a bilateral agreement with Austria and need no further legalisation.
Full diplomatic legalisation
For all other countries: the full chain — pre-certification by the issuing country's authorities (e.g. Ministry of Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs), then legalisation by the competent Austrian representation (embassy/consulate).
Translations are usually done after legalisation. Check the required order with the issuing authorities and the Austrian representation.
After admission: proof of sufficient funds, health insurance and the student residence permit are part of the visa process — not university admission. We cover those in the guides.
Austria's second-oldest university (1585), the University of Graz offers a broad range of humanities, sciences, law, and business programs and shares the NAWI Graz science programs with TU Graz.
Visit university site€300–€500 / month (dorm room)
8010 GrazSingle rooms, double rooms
8010 GrazSingle rooms, double rooms, studios, apartments
8047 GrazSingle rooms