Sapienza University of Rome

Overview

The Doctoral programme in Social Sciences and Economics at Sapienza University of Rome is designed for those committed to conducting rigorous research in the fields of social sciences, economics, and statistics. This programme equips students with advanced theoretical knowledge and empirical methods necessary to explore contemporary social and economic challenges within both academic and professional contexts. The typical duration for this doctorate is 36 months, although it may vary depending on individual progress and university regulations.

What you'll study

The programme is structured into five distinct curricula, allowing candidates to tailor their doctoral training plan according to their research interests. The key areas of focus include:

• Finance and Institutions
• Economics and Development
• Sociology and Applied Social Research
• Statistics and Social Data Science
• Public Policy Analysis and Evaluation

Typical components of the doctoral path include:

• Research Training: Engaging in method-focused activities such as econometrics, qualitative methods, policy evaluation, and data analysis.
• Supervised Research: Regular meetings with supervisors to review progress and refine research directions.
• Academic Outputs: Opportunities to participate in seminars, workshops, and present research findings.
• Thesis Requirement: Completion of an original doctoral thesis based on independent research efforts.

The choice of curriculum will dictate the disciplinary focus of your training and thesis topic, while the programme encourages interdisciplinary collaboration throughout the Doctoral School.

Entry requirements

To apply for this doctoral programme, candidates must possess a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification that meets the criteria for doctoral study. Admissions are determined through an evaluation of academic backgrounds and research proposals, followed by an oral interview.

Proficiency in English is required, with specific minimum scores for standardized tests, such as:

• TOEFL^® iBT: Minimum score of 80
• PTE Academic: Minimum score of 42
• IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5

Scores must be valid at the time of application. Candidates who have completed prior studies in English may be eligible for an exemption; it is advisable to confirm this with the admissions office at Sapienza University.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Doctoral programme in Social Sciences and Economics can expect to pursue diverse career paths in academia, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. The skills acquired during this programme, including advanced research methods and analytical thinking, prepare students for roles in policy analysis, economic consulting, and academic research. Additionally, the interdisciplinary nature of the programme fosters a versatile skill set that is applicable to various fields and industries.