History-PhD at Tallinn University

What the program is

The History PhD programme at Tallinn University prepares researchers, lecturers, and academic specialists in the broad field of history, including archaeology and art history. The programme develops skills for independent research and provides advanced knowledge of contemporary approaches in the humanities and cultural theory. Research may address areas such as pre-modern art and visual culture, Estonian and neighbouring regions’ prehistory, urban archaeology, the history of the Baltic States, Russia and Europe, Baltic-German cultural history, and environmental history and studies.

Study structure

The programme is designed for full-time doctoral study and has an official duration of 4 years. Doctoral studies combine coursework and a thesis component, with substantial individual work conducted in cooperation with a supervisor. Students participate in doctoral seminars and may be involved in academic conferences, research projects, teaching, and scholarly writing. For Summer 2026 admissions, the programme offers 1–3 Junior Research Fellow positions and 1 Doctoral Student position.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have a completed Master’s degree or equivalent and provide proof of English proficiency. Candidates must submit a research proposal of approximately 5 pages / 2,500 words, developed with a prospective supervisor, covering the research topic, objectives, questions, methods, state of the art, previous relevant research, intended research content, expected results, sources, and research timeline. Where applicable, fieldwork scope, duration, and financing must also be described. Applicants must additionally submit an expanded teaching plan, CV including publications, and proof of English proficiency. Admission is based on an interview using the submitted research proposal and other documents.