University of Bologna PhD in Political and Social Sciences 2026/2027 in Italy (Fully Funded)

University of Bologna PhD in Political and Social Sciences 2026/2027 in Italy (Fully Funded)

The University of Bologna has officially opened applications for its prestigious PhD in Political and Social Sciences 2026/2027, offering a fully funded doctoral opportunity for international students and researchers worldwide.

This internationally recognized doctoral programme is designed for students interested in:

• political science
• sociology
• governance
• public administration
• economic policy
• social sciences research
• interdisciplinary policy studies

Conducted entirely in English, the programme provides candidates with an exceptional academic and research environment at one of Europe’s oldest and most respected universities.

Applications for the second round close on:

15 June 2026 at 11:59 PM

About the University of Bologna

Founded in 1088, the University of Bologna is widely regarded as the oldest university in the Western world and one of Europe’s leading research institutions.

The university is globally recognized for:

• academic excellence
• interdisciplinary research
• innovation and policy studies
• international collaborations
• global mobility programmes

Its doctoral programmes aim to prepare highly skilled researchers capable of contributing to:

• academia
• international organizations
• public institutions
• NGOs
• think tanks
• policy research centers

Programme Overview

Financial Benefits

The programme offers generous financial support for selected doctoral candidates.

Scholarship Coverage

The funding allows students to focus fully on research and academic growth during the programme.

International Mobility Opportunity

One of the major highlights of the programme is the international mobility component.

Selected PhD candidates may spend:

Up to 6 months abroad

during their doctoral studies.

This opportunity helps students:

• build international research collaborations
• access global academic networks
• conduct fieldwork abroad
• strengthen international career opportunities

Research Areas and Academic Focus

The programme encourages interdisciplinary and innovative research across political and social sciences.

Major Research Areas

Political Science

• Comparative politics
• Democracy and governance
• Political participation
• Public policy analysis
• International relations

Sociology & Social Policy

• Social inequalities
• Welfare systems
• Migration studies
• Labour markets
• Social transformation

Economic & Statistical Analysis

• Political economy
• Quantitative social research
• Economic governance
• Data analysis

Public Administration

• Institutional reforms
• Governance systems
• Public sector administration
• Policy implementation

Students are encouraged to develop original research projects addressing contemporary global challenges.

Why Study at the University of Bologna?

1. World-Class Academic Reputation

The University of Bologna is internationally respected for its research excellence and academic history.

2. Fully English-Taught Programme

The PhD is conducted entirely in English, making it accessible for international applicants.

3. Strong International Research Environment

Students collaborate with global scholars, researchers, and faculty members.

4. Interdisciplinary Learning

The programme combines:

• political science
• sociology
• economics
• law
• statistics
• governance studies

5. Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue careers in:

• universities
• international organizations
• public institutions
• NGOs
• research centers
• policy consulting

Eligible Applicants

Applications are open to:

• International students
• Domestic students
• Graduates in political and social sciences
• Researchers interested in interdisciplinary social science research

Required Qualifications

Applicants should generally possess:

• Master’s degree or equivalent qualification
• Strong academic background
• Research interest in political and social sciences
• English language proficiency
• Strong analytical and research skills

Relevant academic fields may include:

• political science
• sociology
• economics
• law
• statistics
• governance studies

Required Documents

Applicants may need the following documents:

Candidates should carefully review the official application guidelines before submission.

Selection Process

Admission to the programme is highly competitive and based on:

• academic excellence
• research potential
• quality of research proposal
• motivation
• alignment with programme research areas

Strong research proposals significantly improve selection chances.

Living in Bologna, Italy

Bologna is considered one of Europe’s best student cities and offers:

• vibrant international student life
• strong academic culture
• affordable lifestyle compared to other European cities
• rich Italian history and culture
• excellent public transportation
• dynamic innovation ecosystem

The city provides an outstanding environment for research and higher education.

How to Apply?

Interested candidates should submit applications through the official University of Bologna application portal.

Application Steps

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.

Official Links

Final Thoughts

The University of Bologna PhD in Political and Social Sciences 2026/2027 offers an exceptional opportunity for students passionate about governance, political systems, public policy, sociology, and interdisciplinary research.

With:

• fully funded financial support
• international mobility opportunities
• English-taught doctoral training
• access to one of Europe’s oldest universities
• strong international academic exposure

this programme provides an outstanding platform for future researchers, policymakers, and academics seeking global academic careers.