Doctoral Program

The doctoral program addresses the scientific, academic and professional skills that are demanded from migration scholars. The active participation of a doctoral student in the program entitles to the award of the Certificate in Migration and Mobility Studies, a diploma supplement that attests to the completion of 30 ECTS.

The Four Pillars of the Doctoral Program

Pillar I is designed to provide all doctoral students with the conceptual, theoretical and empirical tools that are needed for the preparation of a doctoral thesis within the field of migration and mobility studies. This includes a series of Core Courses.

Pillar II comprehends the scientific exchange activities leading to the interdisciplinary research integration. The main components of this pillar are the Research Days, i.e. the monthly two-day thematic workshops with international speakers organized by the fellows. In addition, the doctoral students participate in the yearly Neuchâtel Graduate Conference of Migration and Mobility Studies.

Pillar III offers training on a variety of academic (e.g. scientific writing, research and data management, publication) and transversal skills (e.g. communication, knowledge transfer, professional portfolio building).

Pillar IV of the program is oriented towards methods, contents, and skills within the own discipline. The fellows elaborate the training plan which best suits their needs.

The doctoral students are affiliated both to their home institution and to the nccr – on the move. The doctoral regulations of their home university must be observed. Activities completed in other institutions which meet the educational objectives of the different pillars may count towards the 30 ECTS of the Certificate in Migration and Mobility Studies, subject to the approval of the Education and Equal Opportunities Committee.

Associated students (doctoral students who are supervised at their home universities by nccr – on the move affiliated Project Leaders) are welcome to participate in the training activities of the doctoral program and also eligible for the Certificate in Migration and Mobility Studies.