Doctoral Studies in Germany: Opportunities and Pitfalls

digital | 20.11.2026

Doctoral studies in Germany are characterized by special features that are unique in international comparison. One example of this is the specific relationship between supervisors and doctoral candidates, which is traditionally reflected in the terms "doctoral supervisor" and "doctoral supervisor".

The doctoral period is also a special phase for a variety of reasons, which can pose a number of problems for doctoral candidates regardless of their origin. International doctoral candidates are often confronted with additional questions resulting from the different cultural and institutional contexts.

This workshop aims to give participants an introduction to the history and structure of the German doctoral system and thus to German academic history, as well as providing a space to share their own experiences of doing a doctorate in Germany. Possible challenges during the doctoral phase will be discussed, as well as the rights of doctoral candidates and contact points in the event of conflicts or difficulties.