Program Overview

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Introduction to the PhD Global Health Program

The PhD Global Health program is a collaborative effort that brings together various fields of expertise to address contemporary issues in global health. This program is designed for individuals who are passionate about research and want to make meaningful contributions to the field.

Why Pursue a PhD in Global Health?

Pursuing a PhD in Global Health is a significant undertaking that requires dedication, hard work, and a clear understanding of one's motivations. The right motivations for pursuing a PhD in Global Health include:

• A passion for research and the desire to make meaningful contributions through original work and publications.
• The goal of accomplishing career objectives, such as becoming a professor, leading a project group, or working at a prestigious institution.
• The desire to diversify one's skill set and grow as an academic.

What is a PhD?

A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is the highest academic degree awarded by universities in many countries. It is typically pursued after completing a bachelor's and/or master's degree. In a PhD program, individuals conduct original research in a specific field of study under the guidance of faculty advisors and/or mentors.

PhD vs. Dr. (German Doktortitel)

The PhD and Dr. (German Doktortitel) are two different academic degrees with distinct characteristics. The key differences between the two are:

• Supervision: PhD programs typically have a team of supervisors, while Dr. programs usually have a single supervisor.
• Process: PhD programs are often structured and comparable to a study program, while Dr. programs are more individualized.
• Duration: PhD programs typically have a restricted timeframe, while Dr. programs have a self-defined duration.
• Structure: PhD programs focus on general scientific research, while Dr. programs focus on personal scientific goals.
• Title: Holders of a PhD may also use the title of Dr. in many cases, but holders of a Dr. may not use the PhD title as a Dr.-equivalent.

Research Project

The research project is a critical component of the PhD Global Health program. Candidates are expected to propose a research project that is feasible within the 3-year timeframe and has the potential to make a significant contribution to the field. The project should be developed in consultation with potential supervisors.

Supervisory Team

The supervisory team plays a crucial role in the PhD Global Health program. Candidates are expected to find their own supervisors and develop a research topic in consultation with them. The supervisory team typically consists of three people: a main supervisor and two co-supervisors.

Program Structure

The PhD Global Health program is a 3-year program that starts in the fall. The program includes:

• A core course in Global Health, which takes place in person in Berlin during the first semester.
• A mentored teaching course in Global Health, which takes place in person in Berlin during the third semester.
• A research proposal seminar, which is an online course that takes place once per month in every semester.
• Elective courses, which can be taken remotely and are spread out over the course of the 3-year program.

Duration and Funding

The PhD Global Health program is officially 3 years (6 semesters) long. However, candidates may need more time to complete their research project, and there is no penalty for extending the time. The program does not provide scholarships, stipends, or financial support to students. Candidates are expected to secure their own funding or find alternative sources of support.

Language Requirement

The official language of instruction in the PhD Global Health program is English. Candidates are required to provide proof of at least C1 level English proficiency. This can be demonstrated through various means, including TOEFL or IELTS scores, or by showing that they have completed at least 20 ECTS of English-language courses during their university studies.

Application and Admission

The application process for the PhD Global Health program typically takes place from January 15 to March 1. Candidates are required to submit their applications online and participate in an online interview as part of the application process. The interview includes a 15-minute presentation of the candidate's proposed research topic and supervisory team.

Studying Remotely

The PhD Global Health program allows candidates to study remotely, but they are required to attend two courses in person in Berlin during the first and third semesters. Candidates are also encouraged to spend time abroad as part of their research project, but this is not a requirement.

Further Information

For more information about the PhD Global Health program, please refer to the program's website or contact the program administrators. The program is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all candidates, and we look forward to receiving your application.