PhD Programme in Agricultural Science (PAG) at University of Göttingen University of Göttingen in Germany

The PhD Programme in Agricultural Science (PAG) at the University of Göttingen offers doctoral candidates specialised training across eight majors: Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology, Agronomy, Animal Production, Management of Natural Resources, Agribusiness, Tropical and International Agriculture, Global Agri-Food Systems, and Animal Welfare. The programme is designed for students seeking advanced research opportunities in agriculture and related fields, with a strong emphasis on independent research and professional development.

Teaching is conducted in English, and the dissertation must also be written in English. The programme is modular, combining lectures, seminars, tutorials, and methods courses, as well as training in scientific writing, publishing, and soft skills such as teamwork and problem-solving. Students are encouraged to participate in international conferences and workshops, and the programme includes elective courses to broaden expertise.

To complete the PhD, students must successfully defend their dissertation, which can be submitted in a traditional format or as a collection of scientific publications. The degree awarded may be PhD, Dr sc agr, Dr rer nat, or Dr rer pol, depending on the focus of the research. The regular study duration is six semesters, and students must earn at least 24 ECTS credits through modules in colloquia, methodology, expert knowledge, and key competencies.

International elements are integrated, with opportunities for collaboration and presentation at international conferences. The university provides support for travel, translation, and methodological aspects of research. While there are no tuition fees, students pay a semester contribution of about 400 EUR, which covers public transport and cultural discounts. The average cost of living in Göttingen is approximately 850 EUR per month, including accommodation, food, health insurance, and books.

Applicants must hold an outstanding MSc or equivalent in agriculture, biology, geography, or related fields. Proof of English proficiency is required for non-native speakers. Admission requires finding a professor at the University of Göttingen willing to supervise the research. Applications are processed online, and there is no application deadline. The university offers support services for international students, including accommodation assistance, buddy programmes, orientation week, and career advisory services.

Part-time employment is possible, with job listings available through the university's portal. Non-EU students may work up to 120 full days per year. Accommodation services are available, though limited for doctoral students with low income. The university also provides structured research supervision, training, and career support, including start-up guidance for entrepreneurial students.

For more information and to apply, visit the university's application portal and consult the detailed course catalogue and support services.