Bielefeld University
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Bielefeld Graduate School in History and Sociology (BGHS) Doctoral Programme Bielefeld University in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Anthropology
Funding
Available
Deadline
Jun 15, 2027
Country
Germany
University
Bielefeld University
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About this position
The Bielefeld Graduate School in History and Sociology (BGHS) at Bielefeld University is an interdisciplinary doctoral programme for researchers whose work connects history, sociology, political science, anthropology, and gender studies. The programme is designed to provide a creative, supportive research environment with small working groups, individualised guidance, and a strong community of doctoral researchers.
BGHS welcomes applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds. While it offers international doctoral programmes in sociology and history, it also explicitly invites doctoral researchers from other fields whose projects have a clear sociological and/or historical focus. The graduate school emphasizes independent initiative, interdisciplinary exchange, and international orientation.
The programme includes a joint curriculum and structured research and supervision, along with research training and discussion formats. It also aims to prepare doctoral researchers for both academic and non-academic careers in Germany and abroad. Career support includes career service offerings, support for skills development, and opportunities to participate in international conferences and international research networks.
Teaching and programme language are mainly German, with up to 30% of courses in English. The programme duration is nine semesters or more, and intake is possible for both the winter and summer semesters. Application periods are open to applicants from all countries, with deadlines of 15 June for the winter semester and 15 January for the summer semester.
Additional support is available for international doctoral candidates, including welcome activities, a buddy programme, visa support, help finding accommodation, registration assistance, and German language and academic writing support. Bielefeld University also provides a range of general services for international students and researchers.
Tuition fees are not charged. Prospective applicants should review the BGHS programme page carefully for the latest application instructions and any documents required for admission.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants should be doctoral researchers with a research project that fits the graduate school’s sociological and/or historical focus. The programme explicitly welcomes candidates from other fields if their research has a promising sociological and/or historical orientation. The description does not mention a required GPA, specific degree class, language certificate, or other formal test requirement; teaching is mainly in German with some English courses, so applicants should be prepared to work in both languages.
How to apply
Register by 15 June for the winter semester or by 15 January for the summer semester. Use the programme application link provided on the BGHS website to submit your application. Check the university page for the current intake instructions and any required documents.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.