Recommended events depending on the stage of your PhD
Depending on which stage of your PhD you are currently at, we can particularly recommend certain course topics from our curriculum.
To this end, we have divided the PhD programme into three broad phases:
- Preparation and induction phase
- Research and writing phase, and
- Final phase.
Of course, you are also free to enrol on courses according to your personal needs and availability. These recommendations are intended merely as a guide.
The recommended modules are listed here by doctoral phase and module.
You can find detailed module descriptions here.
1. Preparation and initial phase: Identifying topics – Timetable – Research
During this phase, you will further narrow down the scope of your PhD topic and refine your research question. You will draw up a timetable and conduct in-depth literature research.
Many of the suggested courses can help you to manage your literature in a structured way right from the start, or to write alongside your research activities. This will provide you with the best possible support to work effectively on your thesis and complete it within the set timeframe. You should also acquire skills and methodological tools that will prepare you as well as possible for the next stages of your PhD.
Modul Forschungsfinanzierung
- Das gelungene Exposé zum Promotionsvorhaben
2. Research and writing phase: Preparation of the doctoral thesis
During this phase, you will focus on writing your dissertation. To this end, you can make effective use of the knowledge you have acquired from the courses recommended in the first phase.
The modules listed here are designed to prepare you to develop and present your research topic and initial findings at (international) specialist conferences and to the general public. In addition, you can undertake further training for a (future) career in teaching.
3. Final stage: Defence and career after the PhD
During this phase, you will finalise your doctoral thesis and prepare for your thesis defence, during which you will need to present your research methodology and findings and defend them against critical questions. It is helpful here to have strong rhetorical skills and to be able to present your arguments clearly and effectively.
You should also now consider how you wish to progress in your career. The recommended courses not only support you in taking on leadership roles in research, but also equip you for positions outside academia. If you wish to remain in academia, you will often need to help secure funding for your future research project – and thus for your post or a research group – yourself. Our courses provide information on the various funding programmes and offer tips on how to submit a successful application.
