Charles University

Overview

Social Ecology is a comprehensive interdisciplinary PhD program offered by Charles University, merging insights from social sciences with environmental and natural system research. This program is designed to equip students with the research skills necessary to analyze the intricate relationships between societies, economies, education, and policies, and how these factors influence, and are influenced by, human and environmental systems.

What you'll study

• Doctoral research and supervision: Students will engage in the development of a dissertation project under the mentorship of an approved supervisor from the Board of Studies.
• Research proposal development: The admissions process includes a discussion of the submitted dissertation project proposal.
• Methodological and disciplinary training: Training encompasses a wide range of disciplines within social and environmental sciences, focusing on relevant research methods and analytical approaches tailored to the student's specific topic.
• Dissertation: To successfully complete the program, students must produce a doctoral dissertation based on original research, fulfilling all program and faculty requirements, with specific formats and milestones defined by the faculty.

Entry requirements

• Academic qualifications: Specific GRE/GMAT scores and GPA requirements are not detailed; however, candidates should possess a strong academic background relevant to social and environmental sciences.
• English proficiency: English language skills are evaluated as part of the entrance process, although specific test score requirements (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL) are not indicated.
• Entrance examination components:
  • Discussion of the dissertation project proposal: This component, prepared with an authorized supervisor, is crucial for admission and can earn up to 12 points.
  • Verification of relevant background: Candidates must demonstrate a suitable background in both natural and social sciences, particularly economics, for which a maximum of 4 points can be awarded.
  • Verification of English language knowledge: This aspect can also contribute up to 4 points to the overall evaluation.
• Admission threshold: Candidates must score a minimum number of points in the evaluation of the dissertation project discussion to be eligible for admission, as determined by the Dean based on overall results and faculty capacity.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Social Ecology PhD program are well-prepared for a variety of career paths. They can pursue academic roles in universities, engage in research positions within governmental and non-governmental organizations, or work in policy development related to social and environmental issues. The interdisciplinary nature of the program provides graduates with diverse skills applicable to numerous sectors, including education, public policy, environmental management, and social research.