WHY DO A JOINT PhD IN I.U.+B.L.C.U.?

The Ionian University and Beijing Language and Culture University are both international universities where in-depth research is combined with interdisciplinary collaboration, a focus on talent development, and strong ties to international organizations and industry. Through this unique joint English-speaking doctoral degree (European Union University + Chinese University) in the fields of human and social sciences, the respective institutions are determined to attract talented PhD students from all over the world.

The Joint Doctoral Program aligns with the principles of the European Higher Education Area and international standards for doctoral training. It aims to attract talented doctoral candidates globally and provide them with a robust, interdisciplinary research environment spanning both Europe and China. Graduates of the program will contribute to scientific knowledge and be equipped to work internationally, as the degree awarded is fully recognized in both the European Union and China without further formalities. 

Joint Double Degree Framework
Upon completion of all requirements of the joint doctoral program, the candidate will be awarded a doctoral degree (Ph.D.), one by each institution (double doctoral degree), receiving, in effect, two doctoral diplomas, one issued by IU and one by BLCU.

A single doctoral dissertation and examination process will serve for both awards, reflecting the truly joint nature of the program. The two universities, through this program, affirm their commitment to uphold all applicable regulations and quality standards of Greece, China, and European joint program guidelines in the execution of the protocol.

Join an ambitious, dynamic research environment
As a PhD student at both IU and BLCU, students will be part of a diverse body of researchers working in an environment characterized by a culture of collaboration and openness combined with high academic ambitions. The atmosphere is informal, and there is an emphasis on open dialogue, which leads to a working culture that strongly encourages creativity and independent decision-making.

Great working conditions
PhD students are eligible to be offered working opportunities within the institutions and enjoy access to the Chinese and Greek social security systems. The standard of living in Beijing and Corfu is high. Accommodation and leisure are therefore relatively expensive in both Corfu and Beijing compared to other townships and urban centers. However, the collaborating universities and the HSC are in a position to offer support in meeting these needs. 

Requirements
During your PhD studies, you are required to

• Take the compulsory course and at least two relevant courses or similar educational modules from the PhD program offer.

• Attend active research environments away from the institution to which you are admitted by taking study trips to other institutions.

• Gain experience in teaching or in other types of research dissemination.

Career opportunities
The PhD has become an extremely attractive qualification for careers outside academia, for example, in large companies in the consulting sector, the financial sector, international organizations, and public administration.

The double-joint PhD degree from IU and BLCU is simultaneously a European Union University and a Chinese University degree without any further procedures. Accordingly, you will be able to independently undertake high-caliber research, development, and teaching projects in both the private and public sectors in Europe and in China. The majority of PhD students from international joint PhDs find employment before graduating or in immediate continuation of their PhD studies.




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