Animated three-dimensional mesh sphere with internal moving geometric forms – innovative representation of international relations, political systems and public policy analysis in Political Sciences PhD doctoral program at Kaunas University of Technology.

Political Sciences

This is a joint doctoral programme together with Vytautas Magnus University (the coordinating institution), the General Jonas Žemaitis Military Academy of Lithuania and Klaipėda University. The programme focuses on developing a deep understanding of public policy, administration and political processes, as well as applying advanced research methods. The programme develops independent research skills, critical thinking, and the competencies essential for policymaking and improving the public sector.

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Values of the Science Field

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Relevance

These studies prepare political science researchers to analyse public policy and administration processes in national and international contexts. The studies provide insights into global political and governance challenges, developing the skills needed to create applicable solutions at multiple levels.

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Opportunities

Graduates of the Political Sciences PhD programme can pursue careers in academia, as well as in the public and private sectors, where they can engage in policy analysis, strategic planning or consultancy. These studies equip students with the skills needed to address complex governance and political challenges at multiple levels.

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Benefits

Doctoral students have the opportunity to pursue a double degree programme with the University of Bologna, receive the Doctor Europaeus Certificate and present their research findings at science outreach events. They can also participate in paid project work and develop their science communication, data management and academic writing skills in English.

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Funding

There are various financial opportunities available to doctoral students, including study scholarships, support for conducting and presenting research results at international conferences, funded research placements at overseas institutions, and additional scholarships for high academic performance and scientific activity.

Admission Requirements and Study Modules in the Field of Science

Cycle – third cycle

Form, duration – full-time studies (4 yr.)

Language – Lithuanian, English

Degree awarded – Doctor of Science

Study Modules

Main modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Methodolody and Research Methods in Politics	8
Specialized Seminar of Methodology and Research in Political Science	4

Elective modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Contemporary Analytical Political Philosophy	6
Contemporary Continental Political Philosophy	6
Mediatization of Politics	6
Modeling of Political Systems	6
Nationalism and Politics	6
New Media an Political Participation	6
Political Communication Analysis	6
Political Development of post-Soviet States	6
Political System of the European Union	6
Public Policy and Public Governance Research	6
Public Policy of the European Union	6
Security Studies After the Cold War	6
Theoretical Background of Foreign Policy Analysis	6
Theories of International Relations	6

Core skills modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Academic and Technical Research Writing	1	Blended learning
Design Thinking in Research	2	On-campus learning
Digital Support and Tools for Research Writing and Publication	2	Blended learning
Research Data Management	1	On-campus learning
Research Ethics	1	On-campus learning
Research Project Grant Management	2	Blended learning
Science Communication for the Public	1	Distance learning
Systematic Literature Review	1	Blended learning

Good to know

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Admission requirements and minimum competition scores

Persons with a Master's Degree or equivalent degree of higher education may participate in an open competition for admission to doctoral studies.

The candidates to doctoral studies must collect no less than 7 points from the motivational interview.

Selection criteria and their weighted coefficients

	0,2	the point calculated in a ten-point grading system for scientific publications
	0,4	the final point of assessment for scientific research project
	0,2	the grade point average of the marks in the annex/supplement to Master’s degree or other diploma certifying the reward of the corresponding qualification
	0,2	the final score obtained for the motivational interview

admission requirements dates and deadlines for admission all science (art) fields

Testimonials

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KTU impressed me with its culture of nurturing doctoral students, as well as its consistent focus on data and methods. Personally, KTU gave me the opportunity to combine academic work with professional activities and develop an interest in public policy analysis. This helped me deepen my theoretical knowledge and conduct research directly related to current social issues, ranging from civic resilience to the quality of public policy.

Vytautas Valentinavičius

Researcher

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I am glad I chose to study at KTU, as it has a practical approach and a contemporary environment. I really appreciate the involvement of the lecturers and the opportunities to combine my studies with other activities. KTU has helped me to establish valuable connections, given me confidence in my professional growth, and helped me to discover new ideas for developing my future career.

Gabrielė Masiulytė

PhD student

FAQ

What is the duration of doctoral studies?

In Lithuania, the duration of doctoral studies is four years (full-time). During this period, students prepare a dissertation (or art project), conduct research, write scientific articles, participate in conferences, and engage in various project activities.

When does admission take place?

The main admission to KTU PhD studies takes place in August/September. Exact admission dates can be found in the section “Dates and Deadlines”.

What scholarship will I receive during PhD studies?

PhD students receive a scholarship calculated based on the state-established Basic Social Benefit (BSI). In the first year of studies, the scholarship amounts to 19.0 BSI per month, while second, third and fourth-year doctoral students receive 22.0 BSI per month.

In 2026, the monthly scholarship for first-year students is 1,406 EUR, and for second to fourth year doctoral students it is 1,628 EUR per month.