Duration

4 years

Starting Date

September

Application Deadline

1st of February

Tuition Fee

15,000 per year

Location

Vienna, Austria

Degree

Dual Austrian and the U.S. degree

Earn a valuable degree

The advantages of the PhD program in Comparative History at Central European University (CEU) are the classes and discussions among students specializing in different topics, different periods, and different geographical regions, whereby new research questions can be formulated, even about one’s own national history.

The department especially welcomes students onto the PhD program in Comparative History at Central European University (CEU) who have PhD dissertation research that contributes to:

  • the integration of the study of different layers of historical processes (social, cultural, economic, political)
  • the integration of history and theory (conscious reflection of the basic approaches of research)
  • comparative approaches in historiography (Central, Southeastern and Eastern Europe being neither “different” and “incomparable,” nor a “belated copy” of developments elsewhere)

Study your passion

Program Structure:

  • The first year of the program concentrates on coursework and preparation for the comprehensive examination, which focuses on major topics in the comparative history of two of the three regions mentioned above.
  • A detailed, extensive research dissertation proposal is also prepared, and discussed as part of the comprehensive examination.
  • The second year is devoted to research in relevant archives and libraries. Students are encouraged to seek support for spending at least six months during the third year of their studies at one of the leading Western universities or research centers.
  • The final year is spent in residence at CEU presenting research results in the PhD research seminar, writing the thesis, and fulfilling teaching assistantship duties.

Apply

Admissions requirements:

  • In addition to meeting the general CEU admissions requirements, applicants should submit letters of recommendation from three professors familiar with their post-graduate work and a three-page research proposal ( see sample proposal 1 and sample proposal 2).
  • The topic of the proposal should fall within the broad thematic focus of the program as described above and should address issues of method and substance, as well as previous work done in the field, in appropriate detail. Applications are welcome from candidates with a Master’s degree that includes a Master’s thesis.
  • Applicants interested in Nationalism Studies or Jewish Studies at the doctoral level can apply for a PhD in History and should follow the general admissions requirements for the History doctoral program; a joint committee reviews applications. The degree received will be a PhD in History.

Application deadlines:

  • February 1, 2025 for master’s and PhD studies with financial aid
  • March 15, 2025 for self-financing master’s candidates who will require a study visa
  • August 15, 2024 for self-financing master’s candidates who will not require a study visa

Interested? Get started today!