Incoming Doctoral Researchers

The doctoral journey at the Cologne Graduate School is designed to provide a structured, supportive, and research-intensive environment from admission to graduation.

Upon being selected for a research assistant position or awarded a CGS scholarship, candidates begin by applying for admission to doctoral studies and enrolling in the respective doctoral programme. During the first year, each doctoral researcher establishes a supervision agreement with their primary supervisor and a second supervisor. This agreement defines the supervisory framework and includes a structured research and timeline plan to support the successful completion of the doctorate.

After completing the coursework and training components of the doctoral programme, candidates focus on their independent research and the preparation of their dissertation. Once the dissertation has been submitted, it is evaluated by at least two reviewers, typically the primary and second supervisor. The doctoral examination concludes with an oral defense.

Following the successful defense and publication of the dissertation, graduates are awarded their doctoral degree—either the Dr. rer. pol. or the PhD, depending on the programme.