University of Maribor

What you'll study

The OMHRES PhD is a primarily research-led programme built around an original doctoral thesis that makes a substantive contribution to knowledge in the Omhres field. Doctoral candidates follow a personalised study plan that typically includes advanced research methods, theoretical foundations of the chosen subfield, and topical seminars or advanced modules related to their research theme.

• Core research training: advanced qualitative and quantitative research methods, research design, ethics and reproducibility.
• Theoretical and topical modules: specialised seminars covering current theoretical debates and applied topics in Omhres, selected according to the candidate's research focus.
• Doctoral seminars and workshops: regular presentations, peer review sessions and writing workshops to develop dissemination skills and critical feedback loops.
• Teaching and transferable skills: opportunities to gain teaching experience, develop grant-writing, project management and science communication skills.
• Thesis and viva voce: independent research leading to a written dissertation and an oral defence before an examination committee.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline. Admission is based on evidence of academic ability and research potential rather than course credits alone.

• Academic qualifications: a relevant completed master’s degree or equivalent qualification in a related field.
• Research proposal: a clear, feasible proposal outlining research questions, literature context and methodological approach.
• Supervisory fit: identification of one or more potential supervisors whose expertise matches the proposed topic; successful applicants typically secure supervisory agreement prior to enrolment.
• Supporting documents: CV, transcripts, letters of recommendation and examples of prior research (such as a master’s thesis or publications).
• Language proficiency: evidence of proficiency in the language of instruction where required; other language skills may be necessary for particular research contexts.
• Interview: shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview or research colloquium to discuss their proposal and fit with the doctoral programme.

Career prospects

Graduates of the OMHRES PhD go on to a range of research-intensive careers. The programme prepares candidates for roles that require advanced analytical, methodological and subject-matter expertise.

• Academia: postdoctoral research, university teaching and tenure-track positions in relevant departments.
• Research institutions and think tanks: specialist researcher or policy analyst roles focused on the doctoral topic.
• Industry and R&D: senior research and development positions, innovation management or technical consultancy where deep subject knowledge and research skills are valued.
• Public sector and NGOs: advisory, evaluation and programme design roles that rely on rigorous evidence and evaluation skills.
• Entrepreneurship and knowledge transfer: spin-out ventures, consultancy services or knowledge exchange activities rooted in doctoral research findings.

Why study at University of Maribor

The University of Maribor offers a research-focused environment with access to interdisciplinary expertise and regional and international collaborations. Doctoral candidates benefit from structured doctoral training, dedicated supervisors and opportunities to present and publish research.

• Supervision and expertise: experienced academic supervisors across related faculties who provide guidance on research design and publication strategy.
• Research infrastructure: access to university libraries, laboratories or other facilities relevant to Omhres research, plus administrative support for funding and mobility.
• Interdisciplinary links: opportunities to collaborate across departments and with external partners, enhancing the practical impact of doctoral research.
• Professional development: workshops and courses aimed at career preparation, grant-writing, teaching practice and dissemination.
• International engagement: support for conference attendance, exchanges and collaborative projects to build global research networks.