Finding a Supervisor
Pursuing a doctoral program in Germany means undertaking independent research work with the support of a professor. Usually a doctoral program takes three to five years to complete. The research results are presented by the student in the form of a written thesis, called a dissertation. In addition to the written thesis, the award of a doctorate requires an oral examination (rigorosum or disputation). When pursuing your doctoral program, you usually focus on your own scientific work rather than attending any courses.
In Germany it is an important part of doing a PhD to find
your supervisor yourself. However, before sending out an email
to lots of professors, there are a few questions to ask and
steps to take.
First Steps
First, check whether any of the faculties cover your field of research.
If this is the case, you can look at the respective
faculty's website in more detail and look through the
departments and work groups that relate to your field of
expertise. Please also check what information the faculty
offers for PhD candidates.
Requirements
For you to be admitted to a PhD program, you must hold a
scientific degree (e.g., Master's, Magister, State
Examination). Foreign degrees might be accepted as entrance
qualification for doctoral programs; the decision is taken
by the PhD Admissions Board of the faculty in charge.
Please be aware that a PhD thesis written in English or
other languages than German may not be possible with some
professors.
Finding a Supervisor
Before getting in touch with a professor, you should check
whether they are a allowed to take on PhD students. Most
professors are but there are some exceptions. A good
indication is to check whether any PhD students – former or
present – are listed on the website. Next, you should read
some of their publications to find out if they really are a
fit for the research you want to do for your PhD. If all of
this is the case, you can proceed with the next step.
Contacting a Professor
Once you have decided on one prospective supervisor, you
can contact them directly. Please include a CV (one, max.
two pages, certificates, awards etc.) as well as a motivational letter/exposé in which
you outline your research aims or planned project, motivation, as well as your
academic background. It is also good to include how your
research relates to theirs. Please be aware that professors
can receive a number of applications and that it is,
therefore, important for you to pick the person who is
academically most suited to be your supervisor, and to
write a convincing application.
PhD Admissions Board
A PhD Admissions Board is responsible for a number of formal affairs with regard to the acceptance of PhD candidates, and the admission to and awarding of doctoral degrees etc. It is, therefore, paramount to have the PhD Admissions Board of your respective faculty check whether you are eligible to do a doctorate in your field of choice, and to admit you officially to your PhD studies.
Once you have a place as a PhD student at the University of Siegen and want to start planning your stay in Siegen, you can get in touch with the Welcome Center for International Researchers, who will help you with your preparations and will support you throughout your stay. You can also find further information on the website.