The SEPT program offers graduates from all over the world the opportunity of a further doctoral study in the University of Leipzig. The PhD students could conduct their research project related to the development of small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs).

The program relies on an interdisciplinary approach; it will give all participants the opportunity to become acquainted with various scholarly cultures; among other means, through courses taught by international faculty and through research-trips to partner-institutions. PHD-students will be given access to work facilities and computers - contingent on available funding -- at the SEPT centre.

PHD-students who wish to do so may also avail themselves of opportunities to teach and gain experience in academic management. Forums for the presentation of ongoing student research include doctoral student discussion groups and the Program's research-seminars.

The ideal candidate for the SEPT PhD program must be highly qualified academically and have some relevant business experience. The total number of PhD students accepted each year is about three to five. Of this number approximately 70% will be international, i.e. from outside of Germany.

Requirements

• A university degree, at least Master level, from a reputable university
• Broad knowledge of economic issues
• Good knowledge of German and English
• Age limit at the time of commencing: 32 years

Admission Process

• Applications for admission should be submitted on an official application form, which is obtainable from SEPT directly or as a download. The official application form has to be sent along with the following required documents:
• A comprehensive research proposal (as the detailed plan of your doctoral thesis)
• Curriculum vitae
• Certificates (officially authenticated copies, an officially authenticated translation into English or German, if applicable, accompanied by an explanation of the grading system)
• all university diplomas and degree certificates indication the final grades
• language certificates, giving evidence of the applicants level of proficiency in English and German at the time of application
• Record of professional employment/ practical work experience
• Letter of recommendation
• Letter of confirmation of scholarship-donor if applicable or the status of the application's procedure (i.e. copy of a letter of application)

The research proposal is a very important part of the application. The structure required for a proposal is obtainable from SEPT directly or as a download. The quality of the proposal is the decisive factor for student admission.

Please return your application to the following address:

SEPT
Beethovenstrasse 15
D-04107 Leipzig
Germany

Fees

There are no study fees in our PhD program. Candidates should take into account that, unless they already live in the area, they will need to provide for return scholarships to Leipzig and living expenses during their stay in Germany. Please calculate living expenses of about EUR 500 per month (including health insurance). A semestral fee for the Studentenwerk Leipzig is mandatory (approx. 80 EUR per Semester). By paying this ammount you will have access to the students' refectories and cafeterias and gives you the right to apply for a room in the dorms.

Scholarships
SEPT has a keen interest in attracting a student body composed of talented individuals from around the globe. We cannot offer direct financial aid in form of scholarships, but we are willing to support excellent applicants in the process to obtain scholarship from DAAD and other German foundations. Please download our list of scholarship providers to look for more financial aid (check our Download-Box on this page for further information).