PhD Economics and Business

PhD Economics and Business – University of Ljubljana

The PhD in Economics and Business at the University of Ljubljana (UL) is a four-year doctoral programme offered by the School of Economics and Business (SEB) in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Delivered in English, the programme consists of eight semesters and carries 240 ECTS credits.

The programme is designed for graduates seeking advanced academic knowledge, independent research competencies and expertise in economics, business and management. It combines advanced scientific research, critical thinking and specialised academic study to prepare doctoral candidates to contribute original knowledge to their chosen research fields.

Programme Overview and Research Objectives

The doctoral programme provides an opportunity to explore advanced theories, methodologies and contemporary research developments across economics and business disciplines.

Students develop an in-depth understanding of their chosen research areas while strengthening their analytical abilities, critical thinking and capacity for independent scientific investigation.

The programme emphasises original research and the creation of new knowledge, supported by academic supervision and interaction with researchers specialising in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.

Study Tracks and Specialisations

The doctoral programme offers two principal study tracks and 13 majors.

Economics Track: Students may specialise in Economics, International Economics, or Money and Finance. These areas support advanced research into economic systems, international economic relationships and financial issues.

Business Track: Students may choose Financial Management, Information Management, Management and Organization, International Business, Operations Research, Entrepreneurship, Business Logistics, Accounting, Marketing, or Tourism.

Students must select a major when enrolling in the doctoral programme.

International Research and Academic Collaboration

The University of Ljubljana School of Economics and Business provides opportunities for doctoral students to participate in international academic exchanges and research activities.

Students may attend courses, seminars and workshops organised by the School, partner doctoral institutions and international schools with accredited doctoral programmes.

Part of the doctoral programme may be completed abroad at an institution approved by the student’s academic mentor and programme coordinator.

The School of Economics and Business is a member of the European Doctoral Programmes Association in Management and Business Administration (EDAMBA) and the Central and South-East European PhD Network (CESEENET).

Admission Requirements

The doctoral programme is open to candidates who have completed a second-cycle Master’s degree or another eligible academic qualification recognised under the university’s admission rules.

Applicants with certain older higher education qualifications, relevant specialisations or integrated Master’s qualifications may also be eligible.

International applicants may apply, subject to the recognition of their previous foreign qualifications in accordance with University of Ljubljana procedures.

Selection Criteria and Research Potential

When enrolment is restricted, selection considers previous academic performance and an oral examination.

The oral examination may assess scientific and research potential, motivation, previous research achievements, academic publications, international aptitude tests such as GMAT or GRE, awards and other relevant academic accomplishments.

The specific weighting of selection criteria is determined by the Faculty Senate.

Study Format and Doctoral Qualification

The programme is available through full-time and part-time study, with lectures conducted in English.

Students complete doctoral coursework and prescribed research requirements over four years. Successful completion leads to the academic title Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.).

Tuition Fees

The stated tuition fee is €4,700 per year, identified in the supplied programme summary as originating from the University of Ljubljana School of Economics and Business price list for 2026/27.