A doctorate (also known as a doctorate or dissertation) in Social Sciences and thus at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Basel is aimed at students with a very good Master's degree. It consists of an independent research project in which the PhD students are accompanied by two supervisors. It involves the development of professional and methodological skills by attending courses for PhD students. 

The doctoral agreement between the PhD students and the respective supervisors forms the framework of the doctoral studies. The agreement follows the formal requirements for a doctorate at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Working on a research project is diverse and interesting. In addition to independent reading, data collection, data analysis and writing, networking with peers at your own university through reading groups, colloquia and other courses, as well as attending international conferences, is an important part of the work. 

During the doctoral program, students have the opportunity to participate in academic life at the university beyond their own dissertation. PhD students take on teaching activities, organize conferences or publish the first results of their work. Doctoral studies are the prerequisite for pursuing an academic career. The majority of those who obtain a doctorate continue their career after graduation in the private sector, in public administration or in other areas of education.