Programme overview
Doctoral (PhD) studies at Vytautas Magnus University (VMU) offer unique opportunities for academic research and study, contributing to the development of future generations of highly qualified specialists. Graduates of doctoral studies at VMU are capable of conducting independent scientific research and experimental (social and cultural) development, as well as addressing pressing issues in Lithuanian, European, and global science.
VMU offers doctoral studies in the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, technological sciences, and agricultural sciences. A list of detailed research fields is provided below.
Motivated candidates are invited to participate in the open competition for the dissertation topics approved for admission.
Forms of studies
VMU offers two types of doctoral studies, each with a different duration and intensity: full-time (4 years) and part-time (6 years).
Scholarships and Tuition Fees
There are both state-funded places with scholarships and self-funded places available.
The amount of the scholarship is determined by the Government of the Republic of Lithuania and is as follows:
- EUR 1 406 per month during the first year of studies;
- EUR 1 628 per month during the second–fourth years of studies.
Tuition fees for all research fields are as follows:
- EUR 12 680 per year for full-time studies;
- EUR 8 453 per year for part-time studies.
Requirements during studies
In order to successfully complete the doctoral programme and obtain a doctoral degree upon the defence of the doctoral thesis, doctoral candidates are required to:
- Pass doctoral study examinations and collect 30 ECTS credits.
- Publish at least two research articles in peer-reviewed academic journals.
- Participate in at least two international conferences.
- Complete an internship at a foreign research or academic institution.
For more information, please contact the VMU Doctoral School: doktorantura@vdu.lt
The open competition for admission is announced in the following research fields:
| Programme | Application deadline |
| Ethnology | August 17 |
| Philology | August 20 |
| Philosophy | August 21 |
| History and Archaeology | August 17 |
| Art Criticism | August 21 |
| Theology | August 31 |
| Education Science | August 14 |
| Economics | August 19 |
| Political Sciences | August 14 |
| Psychology | June 15 |
| Sociology | August 24 |
| Law | July 3 |
| Management | August 31 |
| Communication and Information | June 22 |
| Biology | August 17 |
| Ecology and Environmental Science | August 17 |
| Biochemistry | August 17 |
| Informatics | June 19 |
| Agronomy | July 17 |
| Forestry | July 17 |
| Environmental Engineering | June 19 |
| Mechanical Engineering | June 19 |
