Curriculum

In the course "Philosophical and Methodological Foundations of Social Science Analysis" (English, 6 credits) we explore the theoretical and normative principles of economics, social sciences and law. In this way, scientific questions will be linked to methodologically based implementations.

The "Proposal Colloquium" (English, 6 credits) allows you to develop a coherent research project and to get helpful feedback before you submit the research proposal for the doctoral thesis.

Various courses relating to methodological and thematic questions are offered in the areas of political science, economics and institutional organisation theory. At least one core elective course has to be attended (English, 4 credits).

You have the possibility to attend up to two elective courses (each 4 credits) and to choose from a range of seminars organized by both the GSERM (Global School in Empirical Research Methods) and other doctoral programmes at the HSG. If you want to attend external courses at other universities you have to submit a request in advance. When accepted by the programme commission the courses can be credited.

During the coursework stage you submit a research proposal for the doctoral thesis. The research proposal sets out the topic, the objective and the chosen method.

The dissertation committee (supervisor and co-supervisor) will carry out a colloquium with you on the research proposal. This lasts at least 30 minutes and is not open to the public. The dissertation committee decides either to accept the research proposal, return it for revision or to reject it.

In the "Essay Seminar" you will work on an essay suitable for publication.

In the "Dissertation Seminar" you will present the interim results of your doctoral thesis.

You can submit the thesis in the form of a complete book (monograph) or several essays (cumulative dissertation). You should decide on the format with your supervisor. For further details concerning the cumulative dissertation please refer to the corresponding guidelines.

In the defence you demonstrate whether you have met the requirements of the doctoral thesis. The dissertation committee hosts the defence and assigns an appropriate grade. The defence lasts at least 60 minutes and is open to the public.