Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Lucerne (GSL)

Objective

The Graduate School of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Lucerne (GSL) is a new doctoral program offering highly qualified students a well-structured and closely supervised curriculum in the fields of the humanities and social sciences (KSF). It provides with a clear structure, and resources aimed at the successful completion of a thesis within a manageable time frame. Thus, offering good opportunities to pursue a career in both academic and non-academic sectors. The Graduate School ensures regular support throughout the entire span of doctoral studies. It does so in a personal and interdisciplinary manner. It stands for academic quality and promotes the professional competences of PhD students, both from a theoretical and methodological perspective. A postgraduate training program, comprising scientific conferences and regular seminars, forms the mainstay of the curriculum. PhD students have the possibility to enhance their research through summer schools and other external courses that complement the activities of the KSF. Participation in scientific conferences and publications is strongly encouraged. This allows students of the Graduate School to acquire general competences both through the program and through external fora. In such working groups, PhD students have the opportunity to network with their peers in both the University of Lucerne and other research institutions.

Completion of the doctoral program usually takes six semesters. The program allows for flexibility in terms of time and in the general set-up of the program. The required deadlines are intended to help the doctoral candidates to plan and structure their dissertation projects so as to conclude them within the time span envisaged. The requirements (attending courses, seminars and international conferences; creating a research design and presentations) promote research quality and help doctoral students to consolidate their way into the scientific community.