PhD with a degree from a university of applied sciences.
A Master’s degree from a university of applied sciences generally entitles the holder to pursue a PhD. This usually involves a partnership, which has its own set of rules.
A Master’s degree from a university of applied sciences is formally equivalent to a university Master’s degree. As the right to award doctorates lies predominantly with universities, this gives rise to the collaborative PhD programme: supervised academically by a professorship at the university of applied sciences in conjunction with a university, and awarded by the university. Some federal states have granted universities of applied sciences their own right to award doctoral degrees, subject to certain conditions.
How the partnership works
You are admitted to the university as a PhD candidate. Academic supervision is usually shared between a professorship at the university of applied sciences and one at the university. The procedures, examination and award of the degree are the responsibility of the university.
The advantage: you retain your connection to applied research, in which your topic is usually rooted, whilst benefiting from the university’s academic framework. The cost: two institutions, two academic calendars, two sets of expectations. Clarifying the roles early on helps avoid friction in the third year.
Common requirements
Faculties require evidence if your previous degree is in a different subject area or if your course contained a lower proportion of academic study. This is not a sign of mistrust, but a precaution: the requirements regarding theory and methodology at university are often higher than those you are used to from your UAS studies.
What goes wrong in practice
Dates, deadlines and expectations vary. A clear division of roles between supervisors must be established at the outset, in writing.
Practical topics do not always fit into a university subject. The allocation must be clarified before acceptance.
University faculties often expect a greater theoretical grounding. This can be learnt, but it takes time in the first year.
Professorships at universities of applied sciences involve heavy teaching loads. Clarify how much supervision time is realistically available.
Independent doctoral degree-awarding powers for universities of applied sciences
Several federal states have granted universities of applied sciences their own right to award doctorates, subject to certain conditions; this is usually limited to research-intensive areas and linked to an examination procedure. Where this applies, cooperation is not required.
Check on a case-by-case basis whether your university and your subject area are covered by these provisions. The regulations vary considerably from one federal state to another, and they are subject to change.
Frequently asked questions.
Does a Master’s degree from a university of applied sciences qualify you for a PhD?+
Yes, it is equivalent to a university Master’s degree. Specific admission requirements are governed by the doctoral regulations of the host faculty.
What is a collaborative PhD?+
A PhD programme jointly supervised by a university of applied sciences and a university. The degree is awarded by the university.
Do universities of applied sciences have their own right to award doctorates?+
In some federal states, subject to certain conditions, for research-intensive fields. This is the exception, not the rule.
Are conditions common?+
Frequently, particularly where the previous degree is in a different subject area. The scope and nature of the conditions are set out in the decision on admission.
Is the degree the same?+
Yes. The standard doctoral degree awarded by the university is conferred, with the same requirements and the same examination.
Does a collaborative PhD take longer?+
Not necessarily, but it requires more coordination. Clear agreements between both supervisors help to keep the timetable on track.
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