Doctorate

PhD at OTH Regensburg – Pathways to a Doctorate at a University of Applied Sciences

An application oriented research environment and reliable supervision shape the doctoral experience at OTH Regensburg.

Since 2023, universities of applied sciences (UAS) in Bavaria have been able to award doctorates independently in particularly research intensive fields. Together with Munich University of Applied Sciences and TH Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm, OTH Regensburg operates six joint doctoral research centers in future-oriented research areas. At the same time, it remains possible to pursue a cooperative doctorate in collaboration with a university.

Framework and Quality Assurance

At OTH Regensburg, independent doctoral studies are embedded in a quality assured environment. They take place within cross university doctoral research centers that ensure close academic supervision, shared standards, and exchange between the participating institutions. The combination of academic depth and application oriented research is a defining feature.

The doctoral procedures are based on binding and transparent structures: Supervision agreements ensure reliable and clearly regulated support throughout the doctorate.

Joint doctoral regulations of the participating universities create transparent and consistent conditions for the doctoral process. The research is embedded in contexts with strong practical relevance. Through accompanying qualification programmes, the Graduate Centre enables targeted and interdisciplinary training opportunities for doctoral researchers.

Support for International Doctoral Researchers

OTH Regensburg is continuously expanding its services for international researchers. Individual guidance is available in English, and selected workshops are also offered in English. The Graduate Centre provides targeted support, networking opportunities, and accompanies early career researchers throughout their doctorate.

Insight into Doctoral Life

A short video featuring doctoral researcher Verena Marterer offers an example of a typical working day at OTH Regensburg – from arriving on campus to conducting laboratory research and simulations, teaching, and exchanging ideas with colleagues.

Further Information

If you are interested in pursuing a doctorate in Germany and would like to learn more about the framework and opportunities at a university of applied sciences, you can find additional information on the website of the Graduate Centre.

Those considering a career as a professor can find an overview of the role and current opportunities on the professors page.

As one of the first female PhD candidates at OTH Regensburg, Dr Lisa Grabinger is a champion of expanding PhD opportunities at universities of applied sciences. Photo: Linda Misch/OTH Regensburg
At the first dok.Forum, a networking event organised by the Graduate Centre, PhD students and guests took the opportunity to engage in face-to-face discussions and to network. Photo: Linda Misch/OTH Regensburg
Verena Marterer offers fascinating insights into her daily life as a PhD student at OTH Regensburg. Photo: Carla Sure and Anna Fieber/OTH Regensburg