The PhD programme represents the third cycle of education in the Italian academic system and provides advanced skills for conducting high-level research in universities, public bodies, or private organizations. It also supports access to careers in public administration and the integration of highly innovative professional pathways (Ministerial Decree 226/2021).
Doctoral training:
- advances knowledge through education in both basic and applied research
- promotes interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary, and transdisciplinary learning opportunities
- contributes to strengthening transnational and international research collaborations
- includes the acquisition of transferable skills to facilitate their development and application in scientific and professional contexts
Master’s degree/Specialist degree or another qualification obtained abroad, recognized as suitable.
For some PhD programmes, additional admission requirements may apply; these are specified in the call for applications.
Admission to PhD programmes is subject to passing a specific selection process.
There are no age or citizenship restrictions for PhD admission. Applicants must hold a master’s degree or specialist degree, or a degree awarded prior to the implementation of Ministerial Decree 509/1999, or a suitable foreign qualification.
The annual call for applications is issued by Rector’s decree and published on this website, on the EURAXESS European portal and on the Ministry’s website.
The selection process is based on qualifications and examinations. Examinations consist of a written test and an interview. Candidates must also demonstrate their proficiency in one or more foreign languages. Each doctoral programme offers a set number of fully funded places (with scholarship) and additional unfunded positions (without scholarship).
The doctoral programme concludes with the preparation of a doctoral thesis conducted using scientific methodology. Upon passing the final examination, which consists of the thesis defence, the title of Doctor of Philosophy ("Dott. Ric." or "Ph.D.") is awarded. The doctoral programme concludes with the preparation of a doctoral thesis conducted using scientific methodology. Upon passing the final examination, which consists of the thesis defence, the title of Doctor of Philosophy ("Dott. Ric." or "Ph.D.") is awarded.
Upon request, the University issues the standard Diploma Supplement for all doctoral programmes.
Minimum 36 months.
PhD in Linguistic, Philological and Literary-Artistic Studies
The doctoral program offers training in the areas of historical, theoretical, descriptive, and applied linguistics, in language teaching methodologies, and in Italian linguistics, also in relation to the use of digital technologies. Other key areas include the study of Italian linguistic, textual, and literary traditions from their origins to the present day, as well as philology, which is explored through research on forms including para-literary, documentary, and editorial texts. These tracks are part of a broader project to promote the heritage of the Italian language worldwide, combined with the study of its artistic and audiovisual expressions from the Middle Ages to the present.
Coordinator: Prof. Francesca Malagnini
PhD in "Frontier Sciences in Sustainability, Diplomacy and International Cooperation"
The PhD programme offers a transdisciplinary educational and research pathway on strategic topics relevant to contemporary society. The main areas of study encompass research trajectories spanning the three dimensions of sustainability—economic, social, and environmental—in line with the goals of the 2030 Agenda, with a particular focus on diplomacy, international cooperation, and vulnerability.
Coordinator: Prof. Francesco Asdrubali