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The doctoral courses

A doctoral program is much more than just writing a dissertation — it is an intensive period of research, reflection, and personal growth. The modules presented here guide you along this path and help you structure your academic work in a well-founded, responsible, and effective manner. You will explore the theoretical foundations of research, deepen your methodological skills, and learn to examine complex issues from diverse disciplinary perspectives. At the same time, you will develop key skills to clearly communicate and visualize your research and position it within both academic and societal contexts. Continuous exchange with other doctoral candidates opens up new perspectives, fosters critical thinking, and strengthens your ability to work independently and reflectively. This creates an inspiring environment in which you not only advance your dissertation project but also actively shape your own role as a researcher.

We also want to give you a variety of perspectives on doctoral studies. Take a look at testimonials from doctoral students, interviews with various faculty members, and an interview with Professor Henrik von Wehrden, director of the Sustainability Science Doctoral Program at Leuphana University Lüneburg.

©Leuphana Graduate School
Overview of the Doctoral Courses using the example of the School of Management and Technology at Leuphana

My Doctoral Studies

Portrait Lloyd Kwambana©Studioline

Report Lloyd Kwambana

Lloyd Kwambana is pursuing a doctorate on the realization and respect for children's rights.

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Kristin Müller©Leuphana/Ciara Charlotte Burgess

Report Kristin Müller

Kristin Müller has been pursuing her doctorate at Leuphana since 2022. here, she shares her impressions of the Engineering Doctoral Program.

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Platzhalterbild©Leuphana/Ciara Charlotte Burgess

Report Najamul Memon

As part of the Helmut Schmidt Fellowship for Public Policy and Good Governance, Najamul Memon aims to solve the social problems facing humanity.

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Teaching on the PhD programme

©Stephanie Piehl
Visiting Fellow Prof. Dr. Nora Lohmeyer: "My course will provide ample opportunity for discussion, practical training and reflection."
©Maik Schulze
Visiting Fellow Prof. Fattore: "Leuphana creates a wonderful environment for early career researchers. The very collegial atmosphere and the opportunity to learn from and with other researchers from diverse disciplinary backgrounds, are key in creating an inspiring environment."
©Dr. Katherine Christ
Visiting Fellow Dr. Katherine Christ: "My course will offer Leuphana’s doctoral candidates the opportunity to discuss key research questions that need to be answered in an interdisciplinary setting."
©privat/leuphana
Visiting Fellow Prof. Dr. Yoram Haftel: "I am eager to hear the students' perspectives and thoughts on such issues."
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Professor Henrik von Wehrden, Spokesperson of the Doctoral Research Group Sustainability Science at Leuphana University of Lüneburg, describes the Leuphana doctoral programme. Why pursue a PhD? What does it take? What does Leuphana offer?

Discussing Research Perspectives

In the module “Discussing Research Perspectives” you critically explore the foundations, responsibilities, and societal relevance of your research. Through engaging with philosophy of science, interdisciplinary debates, symbolic interactionist perspectives, and global challenges, you reflect with other students on how knowledge is produced and positioned. Interactive discussions and workshop formats help you connect theory to your own doctoral project, strengthen your methodological and ethical awareness, and develop a clearer understanding of your role as a researcher.

Recognition of external credits

Under certain conditions, the recognition of equivalent external credits for the doctoral courses is possible.

For example, the seminars offered by the "PhD Network" can be recognised for the doctoral programme.

An overview of the courses offered for doctoral students can be found in the link below.

You can find further information, e.g. the application for recognition of externally achieved achievements, in the section Organising Your Doctorate.