Central & East European Studies PhD
The University of Glasgow has a long history of research excellence related to the former socialist countries of Central and Eastern Europe following the establishment of the Department for the Study of the Social and Economic Institutions of the USSR during the late 1940s.
- PhD: 3 years full-time; 5 years part-time;
Overview
We have a dynamic and thriving PhD student community which plays a significant role in the research activities of the subject area. Our students regularly deliver papers at leading international conferences, publish their findings in leading scholarly journals, and are helping to shape the research agendas in their respective areas.
Postgraduate students are provided with numerous opportunities to advance their research skills and subject knowledge. These include regular talks and classes by leading academics via an extensive visiting scholars programme, cross-institutional workshops and mini-conferences, an annual international Summer School and regular joint events with the Aleksanteri Institute, University of Helsinki.
In addition, CEES Postgraduates are supported by:
- Work in Progress Seminar Series for the discussion of key findings and methodological issues;
- CEES Seminar Series which attracts leading scholars and policymakers working in the region;
- Individual postgraduate review panels at which the Doctoral Convenor and individual supervisors can meet to discuss progress with each student;
- CV development through opportunities to tutor and teach at both Undergraduate Level and Postgraduate Level and to actively participate in research projects.
PhD Supervision
Our staff provide supervision in a wide range of subjects linked to our strengths in both historical processes and contemporary societal changes within the region. We are also involved in joint supervision teams with colleagues from across the College of Social Sciences. Research groups include:
- Assessing Accession - Central and Eastern Europe in the EU
- Glasgow Baltic Research Unit
- History, Legacy and Social Transformation
- Identity, Culture and Welfare
- Centre for Russian, Central and East European Studies
Study options
PhD: 3 years full-time; 5 years part-time.
Final assessment involves the submission of a thesis of between 70,000 and 100,000 words and an oral examination (viva voce).
Entry requirements
Our research degree applicants will usually possess a good Master’s degree (or overseas equivalent), with a significant component in central and east european studies.
English language requirements
Fees and funding
Fees
2025/26
- UK: £5,005
- International & EU: £26,580
Fees are based on the annual fee for full-time study. Tuition fees for part-time study will be charged at half the full-time annual fee.
Irish nationals who are living in the Common Travel Area of the UK, EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status, and Internationals with Indefinite Leave to remain status can also qualify for home fee status.
Alumni discount
We offer a 20% discount to our alumni on all Postgraduate Research and full Postgraduate Taught Masters programmes. This includes University of Glasgow graduates and those who have completed a Junior Year Abroad, Exchange programme or International Summer School with us. The discount is applied at registration for students who are not in receipt of another discount or scholarship funded by the University. No additional application is required.
Possible additional fees
- Re-submission by a research student £540
- Submission for a higher degree by published work £1,355
- Submission of thesis after deadline lapsed £350
- Submission by staff in receipt of staff scholarship £790
Depending on the nature of the research project, some students will be expected to pay a bench fee (also known as research support costs) to cover additional costs. The exact amount will be provided in the offer letter.
Fully funded scholarships
Support
The College of Social Sciences Graduate School draws together internationally recognised scholars and respected practitioners to offer a range of research programmes.
Our programmes are based on thorough training in research methods and we encourage you to take part in numerous exciting seminars, conferences and events. We offer modern library, IT services and a wide-range of support services. You will be living in one of Europe’s most exciting cities which has a vibrant cultural and social life.
Our Graduate School Researcher Development Programme will support you to plan your professional development over the course of your PhD and ensure your employability.