Joint PhD Programs

A joint or dual PhD is a doctoral program completed at two institutions, where the student is formally enrolled in both and satisfies the academic requirements of each. 

This guide is written from the perspective of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Each higher education system has their own traditions and regulations regarding admission procedures, compulsory course work, composition of the reviewer committee, examination rules or other requirements. 

Through a joint or dual PhD you will:

• Access expertise, resources and world-class training at UNL and a leading institution abroad, spending at least 12 months of your candidature at each institution.
• Be exposed to multiple academic systems and methodologies and become part of two high-quality research environments and cultures.
• Conduct research across two partner universities while receiving joint supervision and access to global research resources.
• Gain complementary skills from international colleagues to increase the impact of your research
• Grow your international networks and develop a truly global perspective.
• Have the joint nature of your PhD recognized by two institutions – one from each partner university.

Before admission, but also during your doctoral studies, there are a number of administrative to-dos and regulations at both universities you will be enrolled. The checklists below gives a general summary of those that apply at the UNL. Your academic department may also have specific requirements. 

Joint and dual PhD candidates are expected to:

• Meet academic and administrative requirements at both universities 
• Maintain regular communication with both supervisors
• Participate in progress evaluations and milestone reviews
• Manage logistics such as visas, housing, and travel
• Complete dissertation and defense in compliance with joint regulations

For more information, please contact your specific academic department.