Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Department of Social Sciences - Berlin Graduate School of Social Science

Curriculum & Milestones

The curriculum of the Berlin Graduate School of Social Sciences offers multiple programs and tracks, tailor made to the specific needs of aspiring young researchers. It focuses on the systematic training of doctoral researchers combined with intensive supervision and mentoring. 

Hence, the doctoral curriculum of the BGSS comprises high-level courses on theory, methods, supporting courses and doctoral workshops. Annual milestones ensure continuous progress and mutual feedback.

The first and second year of membership are each limited to one year and the prolongation depends on the fulfillment of the curriculum. At the end of every summer semester, the membership committee decides on the extension, basing on the completion of the requirements.

Milestone 1st year: The positive evaluation of the Dissertation Prospectus (equivalent for publication-based thesis, see curriculum below) is the most important criteria for the prolongation of the BGSS membership into the second year. The supervisor will give feedback by filling in the Progress Report 1st year.

Milestones 2nd year: The positive evaluation of two Thesis Chapters (equivalent for publication-based thesis, see curriculum below) is the most important criteria for the prolongation of the membership into the third year. The supervisor will give feedback by filling in the Progress Report 2nd year.

Milestone 3rd year: The last milestone of our doctoral program is the third Thesis Chapter (equivalent for publication-based thesis, see curriculum below). The supervisor will give feedback by filling in the Progress Report 3rd year.

 

Soft Skills and Professional Training

Professional training as well as soft skills training complete course work at BGSS accordingly to individual professional goals and qualifications.

Mentoring

Additionally, the HGS offers a mentoring program to accompany doctoral researchers' transition to a post-doctoral or professional career.

Important Information: From doctoral generation 2015 on BGSS will not be able to cover individual costs of trainings and mentoring.

 

Track Record

The BGSS provides its members with a Track Record of all academic activities pursued during the time of the BGSS membership. At least once a year, members will receive an e-mail requesting an update of those activities. For the defense of the dissertation, the BGSS will issue a transcript of records listing all achievements.