University of Ljubljana

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, methodological training and supervised original research leading to a doctoral dissertation. Core study areas include microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, advanced econometrics and quantitative methods, and specialised fields within business such as finance, marketing, management, organisational behaviour and international business.

• Coursework and seminars: Advanced Microeconomics, Advanced Macroeconomics, Advanced Econometrics, Research Design and Methods, and elective seminars that reflect current research topics (for example labour economics, public economics, behavioural economics, corporate finance, marketing analytics, or innovation management).
• Methodological training: Intensive modules in applied and theoretical econometrics, time-series and panel data analysis, causal inference, and computational methods for empirical research.
• Research milestones: Preparation of a research proposal, passing a qualifying or comprehensive examination, regular progress seminars, and the completion and defence of an original doctoral dissertation.
• Teaching and transferable skills: Opportunities to gain teaching experience, present at conferences, apply for research grants, and develop academic writing, project management and research ethics competencies.
• Duration and structure: The programme typically spans three to four years of full‑time study, structured around an initial period of coursework and methods training followed by concentrated research under the guidance of appointed supervisors.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a relevant Master's degree (or equivalent) in economics, business, finance, management, or another closely related social science field, with a strong academic record. Candidates are expected to demonstrate prior research training or potential, such as coursework in advanced economics and econometrics, a master’s thesis, or relevant research experience.

• Academic qualifications: A recognised master’s degree in a relevant discipline.
• Research proposal: A clear statement of research interests and a preliminary proposal outlining the research question, methodology and contribution.
• Supervision match: Evidence of alignment between the applicant’s interests and the expertise of potential supervisors within the Faculty.
• Supporting documents: Academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, letters of recommendation, and a copy of the master’s thesis or samples of academic writing.
• Language requirements: Proficiency in English is required for many research topics and for participation in international activities; applicants without Slovene proficiency are expected to demonstrate adequate academic English. Specific language evidence requirements follow university guidance.
• Selection process: Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview or a research presentation. Prior publications or relevant professional research experience are advantageous but not mandatory.

Career prospects

Graduates of the doctoral programme go on to a range of high‑level careers in academia, research and policy. Many pursue academic appointments as postdoctoral researchers and faculty members at universities; others find roles in national and international research institutes, central banks, ministries and public policy bodies.

• University and higher‑education teaching and research positions.
• Research economist roles in central banks, government departments and international organisations.
• Analyst and senior research positions in think tanks and policy institutes.
• Research and development, data science and economic consulting roles in private sector firms and consultancy practices.
• Leadership roles in NGOs and organisations focused on economic development, finance, and business policy.

Why study at University of Ljubljana

The University of Ljubljana is the country’s principal research university and its Faculty of Economics has a long tradition of teaching and research in economics and business. PhD candidates benefit from close supervision, a strong methodological environment and access to interdisciplinary collaborations across the university.

• Research environment: Active research groups and centres covering applied econometrics, macroeconomics, finance, marketing and management research, offering seminars, workshops and visiting scholar programmes.
• Resources and networks: Access to specialised libraries, statistical databases, computing facilities and partnerships with public institutions and the business community in Slovenia and the wider region.
• International collaboration: Opportunities for joint projects, conference participation and exchange with European and international universities and research networks.
• Professional development: Structured doctoral training that combines disciplinary depth with transferable skills development to support diverse academic and non‑academic careers.