Vrije Universiteit Brussel
What is a PhD?
What is a PhDAcademic degreeThe degree of 'doctor' is the highest academic degree awarded at Flemish universities. It is a third cycle degree of Higher Education, after the first (Bachelor 1+2) and second cycle (Bachelor 3 and Master). Doctoral ThesisThe degree of doctor can be awarded after a period of research which ends in an individual doctoral thesis and a public defence. By taking this PhD examination the PhD student demonstrates his/her capacity for independent, original scientific research as well as his/her ability to report on this both orally and in writing. TimeA PhD usually takes 4 to 6 years, sometimes even longer. SupervisionDuring your research you will be supervised and guided by at least one supervisor ('promotor' in Dutch). A supervisor is a professor of the university whose expertise is closely linked to your research topic. TasksThe main task of a PhD student is research. Sometimes PhD students are required to take on some teaching assignments and they are also supposed to attend conferences, give presentations and publish scientific papers. At the Vrije Universiteit Brussel, taking part in or completing the Doctoral Training Programme is in principle not compulsory, but developing a wider range of skills is highly encouraged.
Why study for a PhD?Are you passionate about research and science? Are you curious and innovative? Do you have the ambition to work in an international competitive environment? Then, doing a PhD might just be your thing! Studying for a PhD makes it possible for you to focus on a fascinating research topic, under expert guidance. Not only will you improve your academic research skills; you will also be able to develop a wider range of skills, highly valued on the job market, such as language and communication skills, project management, leadership and teamwork.
Doctor's degrees at the Vrije Universiteit BrusselThe Vrije Universiteit Brussel awards PhD degrees in more than 30 disciplines. While the disciplines are rather fixed, the actual titles might change. We try to keep following list as up-to-date as possible. These are the degrees for which you can apply: Faculty of Arts and Philosophy
Faculty of Law and Criminology
Faculty of Psychology en Educational Sciences
Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy
Faculty of Sciences and Bio-engineering
Faculty of Engineering
Faculty of Economic, Social and Political Sciences & Solvay Business School
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy
Interdisciplinary
If your research topic is interdisciplinary in a way it crosses faculty boundaries, you can (from 2009-2010 on) apply for an Interdisciplary PhD. A special interdisciplinary commission, composed of the three Doctoral School Directors, the vicerector Education, vicerector R&D and minimum 1 representative of the assisting academic staff, will decide whether or not your application is interdisciplinary.
Last update:
14.12.2010 9:54
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