Agricultural Economics and Rural Development (Doctoral Studies)

The University of Hohenheim, which was founded in 1818, is located outside the city of Stuttgart close to the airport. The main building is an old castle surrounded by large parks and two experimental farms. Short distances between all campus facilities make the orientation for new incoming students easy and allow a familiar atmosphere. Agriculture is a dominant faculty with a large number of international students, extensive curricula and a high proportion of Ph.D. students.

• Master’s degree or equivalent is required with a minimum grade of A or B (the better the grade, the higher the chances)
• Master’s exam should have been completed at least two years before applying to ensure that the candidate has ample work experience
• TOEFL with a minimum of 213 points computer based, 550 points paper based, 79 points internet based or equivalent is prerequisite

• a) German language course (four months) at the University of Giessen in June every year
• b) Course work (four months) at Giessen or Hohenheim, three modules and exams selected from areas relevant to the thesis topic
• c) Research design (two months), literature review, conceptional preparation or research and fieldwork
• d) Fieldwork in the home country (maximum six months). Ph.D. students will go to their home countries to
  • create a base of information for the dissertation,
  • promote contacts with native institutions,
  • ensure a cultural link between candidates and their home countries.

Close collaboration between Giessen/Hohenheim and the home institution/university is supported. The supervisor from Giessen/Hohenheim will visit the home country of the Ph.D. student before the start of data collection.

• e) Analysis and Problem Solving Strategies (22 months). After returning to the University of Giessen/Hohenheim, processing of information and analyses of past development and current situation related to the research problem and objectives is needed. This is followed by future impact modelling and testing of alternative strategies to assess future problem solving activities.
• f) Writing of the Dissertation and Examination (4 months). During this period the candidates are simultaneously encouraged to publish articles and submit posters and papers to international workshops and symposia. The dissertations are published and are therefore easily accessible to the international research community.

Candidates are also encouraged to find a sponsor or funding organisation and scholarship through own activities. For any support in such activities, please contact the Programme Office in Giessen or Hohen- heim. A list of German institutions offering scholarships can also be provided.

The final decision on the topic of the thesis is made jointly by the candidate and the supervisor. The research should fit into the overall research programme of the supervisor. The language of the courses and seminars as well as of publications, including the Ph.D. thesis, is English. Very good English language proficiency is a precondition for writing the Ph.D. thesis.

Continuous cooperation It is in the philosophy of the programme to support continuing relations and establish cooperation between the University of Giessen/Hohen- heim and the doctoral graduates as well as the respective institutions in which they work.