Doctoral programme at the Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School

Our structured doctoral programme at the FSGS includes certain obligations and the requirement to earn credits. At the same time, it offers opportunities that would, in the case of an individual doctorate, typically require greater administrative effort and a strong personal network. These include integrated research stays abroad, the organisation of workshops and teaching events, the invitation of guest speakers, as well as participation in training courses for transferable skills and career-specific mentoring.

Initial data indicate that participation in structured doctoral programmes does not result in longer completion times compared to traditional individual doctorates. On the contrary, in many cases the dissertation can be completed successfully within approximately three and a half years. Interdisciplinary exchange and opportunities for discussion foster the confidence needed to complete the project efficiently. Practice-oriented workshops help clarify future career paths, while examples of former candidates can reduce uncertainty regarding career transitions.

Our overview of the doctoral programme shows how many credits must be earned in the different areas (dissertation, seminars, transferable skills workshops, colloquia). Transfers of credits between these areas are not possible.

The individual development of the dissertation constitutes by far the largest component. The dissertation in literary studies at the FSGS is, and remains, a qualifying academic work through which you demonstrate your ability to conduct independent and responsible scholarly research.

A residence requirement applies during the dissertation phase, meaning that you are expected to live in Berlin in order to ensure continuous supervision by your supervisory team.

Seminars on methodology and literary theory are offered each semester. Participation in at least one of three mandatory FSGS seminars is required. Seminars attended at institutes of Freie Universität Berlin or Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin are recognised, as are seminars completed during research stays at partner universities abroad. For recognition, the number of contact hours, regular attendance, and thematic relevance (literary theory and methodology) are decisive. Please complete the confirmation of attendance form [PDF] in advance and have it signed by the responsible instructor at the end of the semester. After submission of the forms to the FSGS together with the annual progress report, the administrative office will process the recognition.

For transferable skills you may attend workshops offered by the Dahlem Research School,the Humboldt Graduate School or the Berlin University Alliance. One credit point must be obtained in the area of “Good Academic Practice.” Additional credits can be earned through individually selected events. Each workshop day counts for 0.5 credit points. Please keep your own record of attended workshops and list them in your annual progress report. Teaching activities (5 credit points) and the organisation of events are also recognised within the transferable skills area. For the latter, please arrange an appointment with the managing director in advance.

The FSGS colloquia are mandatory and cannot be replaced by other events. They take place during the winter semester and are led by FSGS principal investigators. Your supervisor is invited to the session in which you present your own research, and you are also welcome to invite additional guests with whom you wish to discuss your dissertation project.

The schematic study plan [PDF] may serve as guidance for structuring your doctoral studies but is not mandatory. We are happy to advise you on planning your doctoral trajectory in a way that best supports your dissertation and career development.

The final phase of your doctoral studies includes the submission of the dissertation, the disputation, and the publication of the dissertation.