Charles University

Key information

• Level: Doctoral (PhD)
• Focus: Contemporary European cultural history and cultural history methods
• Research training: dissertation project development, research seminars, and methodological coursework
• Delivery format: in-person (doctoral study at Charles University)
• Credits: programme structure follows Charles University doctoral study requirements (ECTS may vary by faculty regulations)
• Language of instruction: not specified in the current record—please confirm with the faculty for the latest language requirements
• Tuition fees: not specified in the current record—please confirm based on your fee status and study mode
• Admission: includes an oral entrance examination based on the dissertation project and subject orientation

Programme structure

The doctoral programme combines dissertation-focused supervision with structured academic training. Candidates develop a research proposal and expand their methodological and theoretical toolkit through seminars, workshops, and research-oriented coursework.

• Dissertation project (core requirement): development, research planning, and final dissertation writing under supervision
• Research methods and techniques: including oral history approaches
• Social science methods: qualitative and quantitative methods relevant to historical research
• Data and source analysis: secondary analyses of social-science data and critical interpretation of sources
• Culture-centred historical themes: popular culture, political culture, and religion and religiosity
• Academic development activities: research seminars and workshops supporting the candidate’s project progress

Note: The exact module list and semester-by-semester schedule should be confirmed with the faculty’s current doctoral regulations.

Admission requirements

Admission is based on an oral entrance examination and an assessment of the candidate’s research suitability for the dissertation project and its fit with faculty research activities.

• Oral entrance examination: a debate on the dissertation project (max. 10 points), a test of basic orientation in the field (max. 5 points), and a test of knowledge of foreign languages (max. 5 points).
• Research proposal: candidates prepare an oral presentation on the dissertation project (no more than 10 minutes).
• Research interest: candidates must demonstrate a clear research interest in contemporary history at the Czech and European level.
• Theory and methodology: candidates must show adequate knowledge of theory and methodology relevant to cultural history research.
• Assessment criteria: quality of the research project and its integration into ongoing faculty research projects.

English / general test requirements

• GRE/GMAT/GPA: not specified in the current record.
• English language requirements: not specified in the current record—please confirm the required language(s) and proof of proficiency with the faculty.

Documents (typical for doctoral applications)

• CV and academic background
• Dissertation proposal (topic, research questions, and methodology)
• Proof of prior degree(s) and transcripts
• Language certificates (if required by the faculty)
• Any additional documents requested by Charles University for doctoral admissions

Work Permits

Post-study work options depend on your citizenship and the Czech Republic’s current immigration rules. The information below is general guidance and should be verified with the relevant Czech authorities or your university’s international office.

• Typical pathway: After completing a PhD in the Czech Republic, graduates may be eligible to apply for a residence permit for employment or another relevant long-term stay purpose, subject to meeting legal conditions.
• Eligibility factors: valid travel document, proof of completion of studies, and compliance with Czech immigration requirements (including health insurance and financial/administrative conditions where applicable).
• Duration: residence permits are issued for a defined period and may be renewed if requirements continue to be met.
• Job offer vs. search period: some permit types may require a job contract or offer; other options may allow job searching depending on current regulations.
• Country-specific rules: requirements can differ for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and for non-EU citizens.

Next step: Check the latest guidance on the Czech Ministry of the Interior and confirm your specific eligibility with Charles University’s international office.