Political Science

Fribourg profile

It is possible to take a doctorate in Political Science at the Department of Social Sciences of the Faculty of Humanities.

A distinctive characteristic of Political Science in Fribourg is its specialisation in Eastern Europe. This geographical orientation stems from a longstanding tradition in Political Science at the University of Fribourg which is unique in the whole of Switzerland and offers excellent networking with universities and partners in Eastern Europe. In addition to this, Political Science places its focus on comparative politics and political theory.

The thematic focus covers fields of research – and therefore possible doctoral projects – on the following subjects:

  • Political systems of Eastern European states, comparison of political regimes
  • Political transformation processes in Eastern Europe, democratisation and authoritarianism in Eastern Europe
  • Informality and political networks
  • Political sociology
  • Political theory

Doctoral students of Political Science have the possibility of participating in the events of the CUSO Programme doctoral en science politique (PDSPO) or applying to participate in doctoral programmes with specialised thematic areas.

Professors who are eligible to supervise theses

  • Prof. Nicolas Hayoz

Areas of specialisation:
See above.

Theses can be supervised in German, French or English.

Studies organisation

Structure of studies

No ECTS credits can be earned.

Doctoral school

Admission

In order to be admitted to a doctorate the candidate must have been awarded an academic bachelor's and master's degree or an equivalent qualification from a university recognised by the University of Fribourg.

Before applying for a doctorate the candidate must contact a professor who would be willing to supervise the thesis work.

There is no general right to be admitted to a doctorate.

The respective conditions of admission for each doctoral study programme are reserved.

Key points

Degree conferred

Philosophiae Doctor in Rerum Politicarum Scientia / Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science (PhD)

Commencement of studies

An application for admission may be submitted at any time.

Regulation

http://studies.unifr.ch/go/dGLfK (French and German only)

Application procedure

Candidates with Swiss qualifications
https://studies.unifr.ch/go/Ui3b4

Candidates with foreign qualifications
https://studies.unifr.ch/go/2KPbe

Contact

Faculty of Humanities
Department of European Studies and Slavic Studies
Prof. Nicolas Hayoz
nicolas.hayoz@unifr.ch
Bd de Pérolles 90
1700 Fribourg
https://studies.unifr.ch/go/fr-politicalscience (French)
https://studies.unifr.ch/go/de-politicalscience (German)