The individual doctorate is the traditional path to obtaining a doctoral degree in Germany. It centers on conducting independent research on a mostly self-chosen topic, carried out in close coordination with a supervising professor.
Unlike structured doctoral programs, the individual doctorate does not follow a fixed curriculum or require mandatory coursework. Doctoral candidates largely organize their research process independently and define milestones in consultation with their supervisor. This format offers a high degree of flexibility and allows for in-depth, self-directed research.
Typically, an individual doctorate includes the following elements:
Depending on the discipline and individual circumstances, doctoral candidates may be employed as research associates at the university, receive a scholarship, or pursue their doctorate externally.
The Graduate Centre of the University of Passau supports individual doctoral candidates through advisory services, training opportunities, and networking activities, thereby contributing to quality assurance and the successful completion of the doctoral phase.
