Program Overview

Introduction to the Doctoral Program in Iberoromanic Linguistics

The Department of Language and Literature at the University of Basel offers a doctoral program in Iberoromanic Linguistics, leading to the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Dr. phil.). This program is designed for students who have completed a master's degree in a related field and wish to pursue advanced research in the area of Iberoromanic languages.

Program Description

The doctoral program in Iberoromanic Linguistics focuses on the study of the Spanish language, its geographical, social, and stylistic variations, as well as its development from the late antiquity to the present day. The program also explores the methods and models used to describe the language in synchrony and diachrony, including contacts with other languages in history and present, diaspora languages, media, language, and migration.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the doctoral program, applicants must have a master's degree in a related field, with a minimum grade point average of 5.0 (on a scale of 1-6, where 6 is the maximum). Other degrees from recognized universities may be considered equivalent, provided that additional coursework is completed if necessary.

Program Structure

The doctoral program consists of a dissertation, a educational program (curricular part), and a doctoral examination. The educational program includes courses worth at least 12 credit points for individual doctorates and 18 credit points for doctoral programs.

Doctoral Committee

Each doctoral student is supervised by a doctoral committee, which consists of a first and second supervisor, or possibly a third person. The first supervisor is responsible for ensuring the correct execution of the dissertation and must provide adequate supervision. The doctoral committee determines the educational program and provides feedback to the student on the quality and progress of their work.

Doctoral Examination

The doctoral examination consists of a defense of the dissertation, based on the previously submitted manuscripts, and a discussion that may extend to the broader field of study. The examination is not public, except in exceptional cases, and is conducted by the first supervisor and other members of the doctoral committee.

Publication and Degree

After passing the doctoral examination, the student must publish their dissertation within three years. The publication must meet the requirements of the faculty's publication regulations and the guidelines of the university library. After fulfilling the publication requirements, the student is awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Dr. phil.).

Funding Opportunities

The university offers various funding opportunities for doctoral students, including scholarships, research grants, and teaching assistantships. Students are encouraged to explore these options and apply for funding to support their research.

Research Areas

The doctoral program in Iberoromanic Linguistics covers a range of research areas, including:

• Geographical, social, and stylistic variations of the Spanish language
• Development of the Spanish language from late antiquity to the present day
• Methods and models for describing the language in synchrony and diachrony
• Contacts with other languages in history and present
• Diaspora languages, media, language, and migration

Language Requirements

The primary languages of instruction at the University of Basel are German and English. For a successful study, students should have a level of at least C1 in the language of the desired field of study, according to the European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Duration of the Program

The doctoral program typically lasts between three to five years, depending on the individual's progress and the complexity of their research project.

Conclusion

The doctoral program in Iberoromanic Linguistics at the University of Basel offers students the opportunity to engage in advanced research in the field of Spanish language and linguistics. With its rigorous academic standards, experienced faculty, and supportive research environment, this program is ideal for students seeking to pursue a career in academia or research.