Branch programme/details

The aim of the study field is to prepare highly qualified experts in the field of the civic sector with a sufficient overview of relevant theoretical approaches, a reliable mastery of research methodology and a thorough knowledge of the current situation and practical problems in this area in the Czech Republic and abroad. Graduates are able to participate in basic and applied research in academic departments and universities, but also to engage in work in the civic sector, in the public sphere (especially the state administration) and in the market sector (corporate social responsibility, donation and volunteering). The programme allows for studies with a focus on sociological or socio-economic analysis of the civic sector.

The entrance exam includes
1. an evaluation of the dissertation project and an oral debate on the project (maximum 15 points). The debate will take place partly in English, as a form of additional verification of the applicant's language skills, which are a prerequisite for study. In particular, (a) the research problem, objectives, research questions; (b) the theoretical framework demonstrating professional orientation on the topic; (c) relevant and justified methodology; (d) overall clarity, structure and referencing of sources. In the case of an application for a specific invited project, a clear and sufficiently detailed idea of the link between the dissertation and the invited research project is also assessed.
2. Evaluation of the publication activity, including an evaluation of a sample of your own professional text (the scientific quality of the publications and their relevance are assessed, as well as the writing style, knowledge of professional terminology and clear and systematic handling of sources and data) (max. 2 points).
3. Evaluation of the professional CV (assessing the applicant's readiness to successfully complete the study in the regular period of study) (max. 3 points).

The applicant may either
a) apply with their own dissertation project or
b) apply for a topic listed in the student information system by some supervisors. If the candidate applies for a specific project that has funds to co-fund a PhD scholarship, the candidate may be awarded up to 4 extra points for this. It is possible for more than one candidate to apply for a single topic if capacity allows. The supervisor may grant permission for more than one candidate to apply for the same topic with the proviso that the selection will be made as part of the admission procedure. In this case, the candidate does not submit his/her own project in the admission procedure, but specifies in detail how the dissertation is implemented within the framework of the supervisor's or supervisor's existing project, in a minimum of 5 standard pages. The text must demonstrate an excellent technical understanding of the topic, knowledge of the research methods and a clear idea of the involvement in the research project and the relationship of the dissertation itself to the research project (e.g. in terms of objectives, research questions, data, analysis, publication outputs).
A total of 24 points can be obtained in the entrance examination. The Dean will determine the score required for admission based on the outcome of the admissions procedure and taking into account the economic and capacity possibilities of the faculty.

The following attachments are part of the application form:
- dissertation project, which clearly states the research objectives and research problem, describes the theoretical background, research question or questions and justifies the chosen methodological approach. The project shall include a detailed research plan after submission of the dissertation, which shall not exceed 4 years. The project concludes with a list of the literature used. The project shall be a minimum of 5 standard pages (maximum 10 standard pages) excluding the reference list;
- written consent of the supervisor to supervise the dissertation project, which will be included in the application form as a separate attachment;
- a brief professional CV;
- a list of publications;
- a sample of the candidate's own professional text (this may be a sample of a published text, or a qualifying thesis, or an unpublished research report with a clearly defined authorial contribution by the candidate); a link to an electronic resource is added, or the text is attached as an appendix
- a document certifying successful completion of a national or international language examination in English at least at B1 level

Admission to Doctoral studies is conditioned by successful completion of a Master's study programme.

Verification method:	entrance exam
Confirmation date (of entrance exam) from:	10.06.2024	Until:	18.06.2024
Alternative date (of entrance exam):	25.06.2024	Until:	28.06.2024

The graduate of the doctoral study program Civil Sector Studies is a highly qualified specialist endowed with a deep understanding of the fundamental theoretical approaches to the civil and not-for-profit sector, relevant analytical skills, and solid knowledge of the civil sector in the Czech Republic and other countries as well as in the European Union.
The study program provides necessary qualifications to those willing to work in basic and applied research at research institutes and Universities of the given thematic orientation. The graduates are also well prepared to occupy managerial and creative positions at all kinds of civil sector organizations and are qualified to work at such positions in public service or the private sphere where familiarity with the civil sector is an indispensable asset.