Area Studies PHD Programme
Programme Introduction
The doctoral program in Area Studies focuses on various aspects of contemporary developments in North America, Europe, and Eurasia, as well as theoretical and methodological issues in area studies. It offers a multidisciplinary education combining approaches from major social sciences (political science, international relations, sociology, economics, media studies, law). The programme is internationally oriented and provides a wide range of opportunities for study and work worldwide. It is supported by top experts, including regularly returning foreign professors, and the Institute of International Relations Prague, a research organization of the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which offers mentoring, consulting, and participation in internal research seminars.
Students are assigned to specific departments and research centres of IMS based on their dissertation topics, where they engage in scientific, teaching, and other activities. Their studies aim to acquire knowledge and skills for conducting top-tier, internationally competitive research.
The programme can be studied in full-time or combined form.
Supervisors and Consultants
Supervisors are typically internal IMS staff with the title of associate professor or professor. They guide students throughout their studies and serve as the first point of contact for research and academic questions. Supervisors usually lead dissertations in areas aligned with their expertise. Supervisors are assigned by the Programme Board.
Each student is also assigned a consultant, an expert from IMS or other research institutions, who complements the supervisor’s expertise. Consultants are appointed by the Programme Board based on the supervisor’s and programme director’s recommendations.
