The PhD programme represents the third cycle of higher education in the Italian academic system and provides advanced research skills for careers in universities, public institutions, or the private sector. It also prepares graduates for entry into public administration and the enhancement of highly innovative professional pathways (Ministerial Decree 226/2021).
Doctoral education:
- advances knowledge by training in both basic and applied research
- promotes interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary, and transdisciplinary training opportunities
- contributes to strengthening transnational and international research collaborations
- includes the development of cross-cutting skills, facilitating their transfer and growth within scientific and professional contexts
Supplementary admission calls are open until 15 October for the following PhD programmes:
Master’s degree or equivalent qualification obtained abroad, recognized as valid.
For certain PhD programmes, additional admission requirements may be specified in the call for applications.
Admission to PhD programmes is granted through a specific selection process.
Applicants of any age and nationality holding a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification, a degree awarded under the pre-reform system prior to Ministerial Decree 509/1999, or a suitable foreign qualification, are eligible to apply for admission to a PhD programme.
The call for applications is published annually by Rector’s decree and is made available on this website, on the EURAXESS European portal, and on the Ministry’s website.
Selection is based on assessment of qualifications and examinations. The examinations include a written test and an interview. Candidates are also required to demonstrate proficiency in one or more foreign languages. Each PhD programme offers a certain number of positions with scholarships and some without scholarships.
The academic program concludes with the development of a doctoral thesis following scientific methodology. Upon passing the final examination, which consists of defending the thesis, candidates are awarded the title of Doctor of Philosophy ("Dott. Ric." or "Ph.D."). The academic program concludes with the development of a doctoral thesis following scientific methodology. Upon passing the final examination, which consists of defending the thesis, candidates are awarded the title of Doctor of Philosophy ("Dott. Ric." or "Ph.D.").
The University issues, upon request, the standard Diploma Supplement for all doctoral programmes.
Minimum 36 months.
PhD Programme in Linguistic, Philological and Literary-Artistic Studies
The doctoral program offers training in the areas of historical, theoretical, descriptive, and applied linguistics, language teaching methodology, and Italian linguistics, including the use of digital technologies. Other relevant fields include the study of the Italian linguistic, textual, and literary tradition from its origins to the present, as well as philological research focusing on a broad spectrum of forms, including para-literary, documentary, and editorial materials. These pathways fall within a wider project to promote the value of Italian language heritage worldwide, which is also linked to the study of Italian artistic and audiovisual expressions from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Coordinator: Prof. Francesca Malagnini
PhD in "Frontier Sciences in Sustainability, Diplomacy and International Cooperation"
The PhD program offers a transdisciplinary educational and research pathway focused on strategic themes for contemporary society. Areas of study encompass research trajectories that span the three dimensions of sustainability—economic, social, and environmental—in line with the goals of the 2030 Agenda. Particular emphasis is placed on diplomacy, international cooperation, and issues related to vulnerability.
Coordinator: Prof. Francesco Asdrubali