Programme Overview
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research-oriented doctoral degree spanning 180 ECTS over 36 months, designed for candidates seeking to make substantial, original contributions to their field through independent scientific research.
Through a structured yet flexible approach, students develop strong research skills, theoretical depth, and methodological expertise under close, continuous academic supervision. The programme combines individual 1:1 supervisory guidance with live group sessions and Work in Progress seminars.
Our PhD is European-accredited through WOOLF and Malta's MFHEA at MQF Level 8. Upon successful completion and defence of your thesis, you are entitled to the title Dr. — one of the most universally recognised academic credentials in the world.
The SHW PhD welcomes candidates across a range of disciplines aligned with our academic strengths, including politics, law, business, psychology, psychoanalysis, social sciences, and humanities.
Three-Tier Programme Structure
The doctoral programme is divided into three consecutive study tiers of 60 ECTS each, completed in sequence over 36 months — from research planning through independent investigation to thesis completion and examination.
Year 1 – Advanced Research Planning & Methodology (60 ECTS)
Prepare for original research at MQF Level 8. Complete a comprehensive Research Plan under supervisor guidance, establishing the theoretical and methodological foundations of your doctoral work.
- Research question formulation
- Research design & methods
- Theoretical approaches
- Ethics & data protection
Year 2 – Advanced Research Progress & Review (60 ECTS)
Conduct supervised original research leading to 2–4 completed thesis chapters. Regular feedback sessions with your supervisor, participation in Work in Progress seminars, and academic conference engagement.
- Independent research work
- Bi-weekly then monthly supervisor meetings
- Work in Progress seminars
- Conference participation
Year 3 – Thesis Completion & Viva Voce (60 ECTS)
Finalise the dissertation with a coherent, polished argument. Prepare for the oral examination before a panel of internal and external examiners. Upon successful defence, the PhD degree is conferred.
- Complete first draft
- Harmonise overall argument
- Editorial refinement
- Viva voce preparation & examination
Research Disciplines
The SHW PhD is open to candidates researching in areas including (but not limited to):
Who Should Apply?
University lecturers and researchers seeking the highest academic qualification for career advancement in academia.
Professionals conducting applied or theoretical research who wish to formalise their expertise at doctoral level.
Senior professionals, policy advisors, and public intellectuals seeking to ground their work in original scholarly contribution.
Motivated Master's graduates ready to commit to three years of independent, supervised, original research.
Investment & Payment Options
The tuition fee of €24,000 covers the complete 36-month programme — all course materials, individual 1:1 supervision, live group sessions, Work in Progress seminars, examination, and degree certification. No hidden costs.
| Payment Option | Total | Monthly | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Plan (36 months) | €24,000 | €500.00 | — |
| 5% Discount (18 months) | €22,800 | €933.34 | Save €1,200 |
| 10% Discount (12 months) | €21,600 | €1,300.00 | Save €2,400 |
| 15% Discount — Best Value (6 months) | €20,400 | €2,400.00 | Save €3,600 |
A deposit of €6,000 (25% of total tuition) is required prior to formal admission, enrolment, and registration. No fees apply during the preliminary eligibility review. Thesis submission only after full payment.
Admission Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Proof of a recognised master's level qualification (EQF 7 / MQF 7) — MA, MSc, LLM, MBA, or equivalent. Copies of diplomas and transcripts required.
Curriculum Vitae: A detailed CV demonstrating academic background, research experience, publications (if any), and professional achievements.
Research Topic (optional): A brief description of your proposed research topic (max. 1 A4 page) for preliminary review and supervisor matching. Optional but strongly recommended.
Language: English proficiency required. The programme is conducted entirely in English.