Can you do a PhD with a degree from a University of Applied Sciences?

Background and legal framework

Universities of Applied Sciences (HAW) do not have the right to award doctorates. The academic title ‘Dr.’ is conferred by universities and higher education institutions of equivalent status. However, graduates of HAWs also have access to doctoral programmes.

In Saxony – as in many other federal states – access to doctoral studies is regulated in the State Higher Education Act through the so-called ‘cooperative doctoral programme’ (Section 40, sentences 4 and 5 of the Saxon Higher Education Act). Universities of Applied Sciences and universities collaborate within the cooperative doctoral programme. The research work, however, can be carried out entirely at HTWK Leipzig. In principle, cooperation is possible with any university.

In accordance with the resolution of the KMK (March 1999), Master’s degrees from universities and universities of applied sciences generally entitle the holder to pursue a doctorate. In April 2000, holders of Master’s or Magister degrees obtained at universities or universities of applied sciences in accordance with Section 19 of the Higher Education Act (HRG) were placed on an equal footing with holders of Diplom and Magister degrees obtained in accordance with Section 18(1). This has been explicitly enshrined in the Saxon Higher Education Act (SächsHSFG) since 2013.

Tip: The key reference is the doctoral regulations of
the faculty at the partner university!

Tip: You should allow between 6 and 12 months for the preparatory phase of your PhD project.

Particular attention should be paid to the funding periods set by the funding body, especially in the case of project funding.