DOCTORAL RESEARCH

Doctoral Studies at the Department of Nursing, Democritus University of Thrace (D.U.Th.)

Until the approval of a specific regulation by the Department, the Department of Nursing adopts the Regulation for Doctoral Studies of the Democritus University of Thrace (Internal Regulation – Articles 35–52), which defines the framework for the operation of the University’s Doctoral Study Programs (DSP).

A summary of its contents is presented below:

Purpose and Structure of DSP (Article 35)
• The DSPs aim to produce original scientific research and to advance knowledge in a specific academic field.

Admission Requirements (Article 36)
• Holders of a Master’s Degree are eligible to apply. In special cases, Bachelor’s degree holders may be exceptionally accepted under specific conditions.

Submission of Research Proposal & Candidate Selection (Articles 37–38)
• Candidates submit a research proposal in a thematic area of interest.. Evaluation is conducted by a three-member committee.
• Admissions are approved by the Department Assembly.

Supervisory Committee and Supervisor Duties (Articles 39–40)
• A three-member Advisory Committee is appointed. The supervisor is responsible for guiding the research process.

Study Duration, Monitoring and Interim Evaluation (Articles 41–43)
• The minimum duration of study is 3 years and the maximum is 6 years (with a possibility for extension).
• Interim evaluations are conducted annually to assess dissertation progress.

Doctoral Dissertation Defense (Articles 44–45)
• Upon completion of the research, the candidate publicly presents and defends the dissertation.
• The final evaluation is conducted by a seven-member examination committee.

Suspension, Termination, and Deregistration (Articles 46–47)
• Temporary suspension of studies is permitted. Deregistration may occur due to lack of progress or serious violations.

Participation in Teaching/Research – Funding (Articles 48–50)
• Candidates may participate in teaching or research projects.
• Scholarships or funding opportunities may be available.

Quality Assurance and Final Provisions (Articles 51–52)
• The DSPs are subject to evaluation and follow quality principles in accordance with National and European frameworks.

👉 Download the Regulation for Postgraduate and Doctoral Studies of D.U.Th.