Overview

Research that shapes tomorrow

Today’s challenges cannot be tackled from one perspective alone. At the Hertie School Berlin, international researchers from multiple social science disciplines come together to exchange views, questions and develop their own thinking.

Working together with distinguished faculty, our Governance doctoral researchers pursue answers to today’s social, political, legal and economic challenges. Rigorous academic training, close supervision and institutional support, and the opportunity to develop professional skills prepare our PhDs for leading academic and non-academic careers.

The Hertie School is part of a vibrant research hub in the heart of Berlin and closely cooperates with leading doctoral programmes in the social sciences in Europe.

Programme Structure

Structure:

Throughout the doctoral journey, we offer seminars and workshops to our PhD researchers to enhance their methodological skills, support their thesis writing, develop their publishing and professional skills and support their career planning. PhD researchers will find a well-functioning support structure at the Hertie School.
Further, each candidate works with a doctoral committee which eventually comprises three dissertation advisors who provide intellectual guidance and monitor the candidate’s research progress.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-01 00:00:00

Apply anytime.

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

125

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

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IELTS

7

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Credits

180 ECTS

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Berlin, Germany

Disciplines

Political Science View 5 other PhDs in Political Science in Germany

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

125

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

We are interested in applicants with an exceptionally strong master's degree (or equivalent) in economics, law, political science, sociology, public administration, management, or related fields. The master's degree should be completed before you enter the programme.

The following documents and information will be required for application:

Completed online application forms
Abstract of research proposal (max. 400 words)
Research proposal (1,500-2,500 words excl. references)
Curriculum Vitae (max. two pages)
Letter of Motivation (max. 250-400 words)
Transcripts and certificates of all acquired (or to be acquired) university degrees
English proficiency proof (may be handed in after the deadline)

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Hertie School Berlin and/or in Germany, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

Free
EU/EEA Applies to you

Applies to you

EU/EEA Nationals

Free

Additional Details

The Hertie School does not charge tuition fees for its doctoral programmes.

Living costs

Berlin

Germany

836 - 1340 EUR / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Governance.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Research that shapes tomorrow

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

EU/EEA Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Berlin

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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