Doctorate
EPFL is one of the world’s most dynamic and reputed institutes of science and technology. In the heart of Europe, it offers a combination of excitement, excellence, inspiring education, and outstanding facilities for research. Its Doctoral School is organized into 21 doctoral programs, each covering a well-established discipline or one of today’s interdisciplinary research areas. They form vibrant scientific communities that energize the exchange of scientific ideas and progress.
| Academic year 2019-2020 |
2199 |
| Switzerland | Europe | World |
20% |
50% |
30% |
| Delivered in 2019 |
424 |
| Academia | Industry | ||
35% |
65% |
Doctoral studies at EPFL
Doctoral studies structure
An EPFL PhD is typically obtained after four years of study devoted to an original and independent scientific research project.
Doctoral programs
EPFL’s Doctoral School is organized into 21 doctoral programs.
Admission criteria and application
Information about an admission to a PhD program at EPFL.
Why choose EPFL?
Thesis distinction
Each year, a distinction is granted to a selection of very high quality theses, in order to highlight the doctoral candidates’ research work and their scientific merit.
EPFLglobaLeaders
EPFLglobaLeaders is a new doctoral fellowship programme funding early stage researchers to become leaders in the transition towards sustainable societies.
EPFLinnovators
The EPFLinnovators programme aims to attract excellent PhD candidates with an interest in entrepreneurship to EPFL.
Meet EPFL representatives
EPFL regularly takes part in educational fairs and information sessions throughout the world.
Contact
In case of questions, please contact your doctoral program of interest.
You may also contact the Doctoral Students’ Office.