Questions and answers about the doctoral programme at the IWH

What are the IWH's main areas of research?
Researchers at IWH are leading experts in areas such as financial markets, legislation and regulation, macroeconomics, structural change and productivity. This broad range of research specialisations offers doctoral students the opportunity to work in various relevant and current economic fields.

What are the advantages of a doctorate at IWH compared to a doctorate directly at a university?
Doctoral positions at IWH offer several advantages: close supervision by experienced staff, excellent access to data, involvement in the Institute's activities and coverage of travel expenses to conferences. This support makes it easier for doctoral students to carry out their research and present their results at an international level.

How is the doctoral programme at the IWH structured?
The doctoral programme at IWH comprises a structured course programme with compulsory and optional courses. It includes regular presentations and publications to enhance students' research skills. Students are enrolled at a German university and benefit from comprehensive supervision that prepares them for their academic career.

Why should I consider a doctoral programme at the IWH?
IWH offers a doctoral programme in economics that is open to students worldwide. The programme is known for its excellent supervision by experienced and internationally well-connected academics. In addition, doctoral students at IWH have access to high-quality data sets and the opportunity to present their research at international conferences. The close supervision and excellent framework conditions make the IWH an ideal choice for a doctoral programme.

Do I receive a salary?
Participants in the IWH doctoral programme receive a salary. The standard payment consists of a scholarship and a so-called midi job. Doctoral students also participate in the German social security system (health insurance, unemployment insurance, pension insurance, accident insurance).

What accommodation is available?
The IWH itself does not offer its own accommodation. However, as a doctoral student you will receive a salary from the IWH, from which you can rent a flat or a room in a shared flat. Halle is a comparatively cheap place to study and smaller, simple flats are available from around 400 euros per month. The IWH team actively supports doctoral students in their search for accommodation through a broad network.

Read more: Paths of previous graduates after the IWH doctoral programme

Read more: Applying for the IWH doctoral programme (Call for Applications ongoing until 2025-01-15)