Paths to a Doctorate

Support for early-career researchers at Coburg University of Applied Sciences and Arts covers all phases and areas of doctoral studies. A doctoral dissertation is an independent scholarly achievement and is typically supervised by two professors in the relevant field. In addition, students have the opportunity to benefit from the training program. At Coburg University of Applied Sciences and Arts, you can pursue a doctoral degree in specific research-intensive fields as well as in collaboration with a university. Earning a doctorate is a crucial first step toward a career that includes a doctoral degree, such as a professorship at a university of applied sciences.

You can pursue a doctorate—that is, write an independent dissertation—by

• at the Doctoral Center at Coburg University of Applied Sciences and Arts Analytics4Health (A4H)
• at the Sustainable and Intelligent Systems (NISys) Doctoral Center in collaboration with THWS University of Applied Sciences, THAB, and Coburg University of Applied Sciences and Arts
• in the form of a cooperative doctoral program
• With its regional focus, the Upper Franconia Technology Alliance (TAO) offers the opportunity, in cooperation with the University of Bayreuth or the University of Bamberg, to participate in the Energy-Self-Sufficient Buildings” Graduate Research Training Program .

Your doctoral studies begin with your idea and your interest in a topic. What particularly appealed to you during your undergraduate studies, and which professor inspired you? What would you like to investigate, and in what area do you want to become an expert? What makes your research topic relevant, and why will your research question still be important in three years? In addition to questions about time, it’s also crucial that your financial security is ensured – whether through a job within or outside academia, a fellowship, or other funding opportunities, such as a partnership with a company.

Women pursuing doctoral degrees are still underrepresented in the fields of engineering and the natural sciences. We support you in realizing your potential through a doctoral degree and are committed to promoting equal opportunity.

For women living in Bavaria who are pursuing a doctoral degree, support programs are available through the HAW—State Conference of Women’s and Equal Opportunity Officers at Bavarian Universities (lakof-bayern.de).

1. You contact a potential advisor at the Coburg University of Applied Sciences and Arts with your idea for a dissertation topic. Together, you narrow down the topic.
2. The professor at Coburg University will supervise your dissertation and assist you with your application to the Doctoral Center or in finding a partner university.
3. Check the requirements for pursuing a doctorate, for example, by referring to the doctoral regulations.

If you have any questions about pursuing a doctorate at Coburg University of Applied Sciences and Arts, you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Renate Lucke, the doctoral advisor.