Third Cycle (PhD) Programmes

Third cycle higher education programs in Albania include the following forms:

• Executive Master Programs

• Specialization Diplomas

• Doctoral Studies

Third cycle programs correspond to Level 8 of the Albanian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and EQF Level 8. Executive Master programs provide advanced scientific and professional education, normally lasting one or two academic years and comprising 60 or 120 ECTS credits. They conclude with a thesis and confer the "Executive Master" degree in the relevant field.

Long-term specialized programs are professionally oriented, providing specialized knowledge, lasting at least two academic years with no fewer than 120 ECTS credits. They conclude with a comprehensive examination or a thesis, awarding a "Specialization Diploma" in the relevant field.

Organisation of Doctoral Studies

Doctoral studies are designed as individual programs promoting independent research in the field offered by the base or main academic unit. They are based on scientific research and creative activities. Doctoral studies last a minimum of three academic years and a maximum of five years. Completion leads to the award of the "Doctor" (PhD) degree. HEIs establish annual evaluation criteria for candidate progress and research output. HEIs eligible to offer doctoral programs may apply for funding from the National Agency for Scientific Research and Innovation or other funding bodies.

Doctoral studies may be full-time within the base unit or part-time when the candidate is employed as academic staff in another HEI or as research staff in a basic or applied research institution. Collaborative programs with other HEIs may involve conducting parts of the research project at partner institutions. The base unit provides the number of doctoral students, and each student’s research project must align with the unit’s research activities. Students may receive external funding or self-finance their studies.

Admission Requirements

Admission to third cycle programs is open to candidates holding a Master of Science degree who meet the admission criteria set by the HEI. Additionally, proficiency in one of the five EU foreign languages (English, French, German, Italian, Spanish), certified by internationally recognized exams, is required. A previously obtained degree in one of these languages satisfies this requirement. Base units provide admission criteria according to state-defined quality standards, which are publicly available. HEIs transmit the list of doctoral graduates to the relevant ministry to be recorded in the national registry of academic degrees and credentials.

Status of Doctoral Students/Candidates

All doctoral students are entitled to be candidates for the PhD degree.

Supervision Arrangements

Doctoral programs are designed by universities, and supervision agreements are formalized by HEIs.

Employability

Information same with previous sections

Assessment

As the final stage of study, the doctoral thesis is evaluated based on its scientific or artistic significance and contribution to the relevant field. It represents independent scientific research. Each HEI establishes general rules for the application process and defense of the doctoral thesis, applicable to all its departments.

Certification

Upon completion of all required examinations and successful defense of the doctoral thesis, students are awarded the degree certifying the title "Doctor" (PhD).