Kaunas University of Technology

Overview

The PhD in Political Sciences at Kaunas University of Technology is a collaborative doctoral program offered in partnership with Vytautas Magnus University, Klaipėda University, and the General Jonas Žemaitis Military Academy of Lithuania. This program emphasizes research in public policy and governance, allowing candidates to explore a variety of dissertation topics, including political theory, political communication, comparative politics, and international relations.

What you'll study

The program integrates advanced coursework with research training and dissertation development. Students engage in methodological and subject-focused seminars before transitioning to independent research, leading to a doctoral dissertation.

Core research training

• Methodology and Research Methods in Politics
• Specialised Seminar of Methodology and Research in Political Science

Advanced political science seminars

• Contemporary Analytical Political Philosophy
• Contemporary Continental Political Philosophy
• Mediatization of Politics
• Modeling of Political Systems
• Nationalism and Politics
• New Media and Political Participation
• Political Communication Analysis
• Political Development of Post-Soviet States
• Political System of the European Union
• Public Policy and Public Governance Research
• Public Policy of the European Union
• Security Studies After the Cold War

Dissertation

Candidates are required to formulate an original research project and compose a doctoral dissertation with guidance from academic supervisors. The dissertation topic should align with the thematic areas of the program and the research priorities of partner institutions.

Entry requirements

Admission is granted through an open competition, and applicants must possess a master’s degree or an equivalent qualification that provides a solid academic foundation for doctoral research in political sciences or public policy. The final eligibility assessment is conducted according to Lithuanian doctoral admission standards.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Political Sciences program can pursue diverse career paths in academia, research institutions, governmental organizations, and non-governmental organizations. The advanced skills and knowledge acquired during the program prepare students for roles that influence public policy, governance, and international relations on a global scale.