The University of Bologna, Italy’s oldest university and a leading European institution, is inviting applications for its PhD Programme in Political and Social Sciences for the academic year 2026–2027.

This program provides a rigorous, research-driven environment for students aiming to advance knowledge and expertise in political, legal, economic, and social disciplines.

Program Overview

The PhD in Political and Social Sciences is a four-year doctoral programme designed to prepare highly qualified researchers capable of addressing complex societal, political, and economic challenges.

The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary research, critical analysis, and empirical methods to equip students with the skills necessary for academic and professional leadership.

• Coordinator: Prof. Roberto Rizza
• Cycle: 42nd
• Language of Instruction: English
• Duration: 4 years
• Doctoral Start Date: 1 November 2026

The program integrates seminars, workshops, and research projects with active mentorship from leading scholars, fostering a rich academic environment conducive to producing innovative, impactful research. Students will also have access to the University’s extensive resources, including libraries, data archives, and research networks.

Research Focus and Subject Areas

This PhD program spans multiple disciplines, reflecting the University’s commitment to interdisciplinary research in the social sciences. Areas of study include:

• Political Science: Comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and governance studies.
• Legal Sciences: Public law, international law, human rights, and legal institutions.
• Economic Sciences: Political economy, development studies, and institutional economics.
• Statistical and Quantitative Analysis: Social research methods, survey design, and statistical modeling for social sciences.

Through these focus areas, doctoral candidates are encouraged to develop research projects that address both theoretical questions and real-world societal challenges.

Scholarships and Funding

The University of Bologna offers competitive scholarships for PhD students, supporting full-time research and study. For the 2026–2027 academic year, scholarship awards are as follows:

• Intermediate Scholarship: €1,350 net per month
• Note: Scholarship amounts may vary depending on contributions to Italian professional pension funds or other employment income that affects social security rates.

Scholarships aim to ensure that talented researchers can dedicate themselves fully to their doctoral studies while maintaining financial stability.

Admission Requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate:

• A relevant Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in political, legal, economic, or social sciences.
• Proficiency in English, the language of instruction.
• Strong analytical and research skills, evidenced by academic performance, publications, or professional experience.

Candidates are also encouraged to submit a clear research proposal aligned with the PhD program’s themes and to demonstrate motivation for contributing to interdisciplinary social science research.

Application Process

Applications for the 42nd cycle of the PhD programme must be submitted online by 30 March 2026 at 11:59 PM. Interested candidates should carefully review the call for applications and prepare the required documentation, including:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Research proposal
• Letters of recommendation (if required)

The University encourages prospective students to consult the PhD programme website for additional information regarding research topics, program organization, and specific submission instructions.

Why Choose the University of Bologna

The University of Bologna offers an exceptional academic environment for doctoral studies, including:

• Historical and international prestige: Recognized as Europe’s oldest university, renowned for its excellence in research and teaching.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: Opportunities to work across political, legal, economic, and social science disciplines.
• Research infrastructure: Access to extensive libraries, archives, laboratories, and global academic networks.
• Professional development: Training in research methods, academic writing, and career preparation.
• Cultural immersion: Study in Bologna, a vibrant city with a rich intellectual and cultural heritage.

Contact Information

For further information, applicants may contact the program coordinator:

• Prof. Roberto Rizza
• University of Bologna – Department of Political and Social Sciences
• Email and official contact details are available via the University website.

Key Dates

• Application Deadline: 30 March 2026, 11:59 PM
• Program Start Date: 1 November 2026

The PhD in Political and Social Sciences at the University of Bologna provides an internationally focused, research-intensive environment, enabling students to become leaders in academia, policy, and social research.

By combining rigorous theoretical training with practical, empirical research, this program empowers candidates to address the challenges of modern political and social systems on a global scale.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the scholarships. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.