Doctoral Programme (PhD)

Pursue groundbreaking research, deepen your expertise, and shape the future as a leader and innovator in your field.

Degree title

PhD

Duration of study

3-6 years

Language of study

English

Starting a research degree is an exciting journey!

We offer a diverse range of doctoral programmes designed to empower researchers and innovators.

The following programme is subject to final approval by the Hellenic Authority for Higher Education.

They are expected to commence in October 2026.

Starting a research degree is an exciting journey! We offer a diverse range of doctoral programmes designed to empower researchers and innovators.

Our PhD programmes are subject to final approval by the Hellenic Authority of Higher Education. They are expected to commence in October 2026.

Unlike taught programmes, applying for a PhD means shaping your own research idea, finding an academic who shares your interests and can support your work, and preparing a strong research proposal. Once your proposal is approved and you meet all entry requirements, you’ll be ready to take the first step toward making your mark in your field.

Available PhD Programmes

Business & Management

PhD in Management (covering finance & economics, HR, marketing, strategy, organisational behaviour, and more)

Computer Science

PhD in Computer Science

Psychology

PhD in Psychology

Humanities

PhD in English Language & Linguistics
PhD in Translation Studies
PhD in English Literature
PhD in TESOL
PhD in Communication & Digital Media

Law

PhD in Law

How to join our Doctoral Programme

Open call: applicants are invited to submit research proposals in response to a formal call for a number of agreed research projects for which is published annually at the beginning of the calendar year
Student-initiated: applicants submit their research proposals, having confirmed that the relevant expertise and resources are available to support their project. Students can apply at any time during the academic year up until mid-June, but their applications are considered competitively at a panel in June.
Project-based: opportunities are offered within the framework of externally funded research or industrial projects. (e.g. EU-funded projects).

PhD applicants must have

All PhD applicants must make a full application which includes:

A research proposal (2,500 words)
A CV
A letter of support by potential supervisor(s)
Personal statement in support of application
Depending on department, sample of written work, portfolio submission, or any other relevant evidence.
Two reference letters.

Important note: All prospective applicants must identify a potential supervisor before submitting their proposal. They should contact the supervisor in advance to discuss their research topic and confirm the supervisor’s interest and expertise in the area.

Explore the research interests of the academic staff and available research areas by visiting the webpage of your chosen department

View our Departments

To apply for a PhD, you’ll need to meet the following entry requirements:

Academic Qualifications
A 2:1 Honors Degree (or international equivalent).
A Merit in a relevant Master’s degree, including a merit in the dissertation/capstone project.
English Language Requirement
IELTS 7.0 overall, with at least 5 in Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking (or an equivalent qualification).

We offer three main routes for PhD applications at CITY ULE:

Open Call – Each year, we publish a list of agreed research projects, and applicants are invited to submit proposals in response. This usually happens at the beginning of the calendar year.
Student-Initiated – If you have a research idea, you can submit a proposal after confirming that the necessary expertise and resources are available. Applications are open throughout the academic year until mid-June, but all submissions are competitively reviewed in June.
Project-Based – Some PhD opportunities are linked to externally funded research or industry collaborations (e.g., EU-funded projects). These opportunities vary depending on available funding.

All PhD applicants must submit a full application, which includes:

A detailed research proposal (2,500 words)
A CV outlining your academic and professional experience
A letter of support from potential supervisor(s)
A personal statement explaining why you're applying
Additional materials (varies by department)—this could be a sample of written work, a portfolio, or other relevant evidence
Two reference letters

Fee Waivers for Outstanding Applicants

We are committed to attracting top talent to our PhD programmes. Each year, we offer a number of full and partial fee waivers to exceptional candidates. Priority is given to full-time PhD students who pursue their studies on campus.

Annual tuition fees

€6,500 per year (full time, 3 years)
€3,250 per year (part-time, 6 years)

As a PhD student , you will have access to a wide range of facilities designed to support your research as well as academic and professional development. This includes a dedicated desk space with a personal computer, full access to library and IT services and specialist research facilities relevant to your field. You will also have access to all required computer software, provided under appropriate licensing agreements. Additional support services include pastoral care and disability services to ensure your wellbeing.

Our selection process in brief

The PhD selection process is rigorous, fair, and based on principles of equality and diversity. Only applicants who meet the admissions requirements are considered and their application is processed. Eligible applications must include a research proposal, personal statement, CV, and references and are reviewed by the Doctoral Programme Board, which includes prospective supervisors. Shortlisted applicants are invited to an interview conducted in line with best practices in inclusive and competency-based assessment. Offers are made only with supervisory support, and all applicants are informed of the outcome of their application.