Structured Doctoral Programmes vs the Individual PhD Model in Europe

Two doctoral cultures, one degree

Across Europe a PhD can be organised in two broad ways. A structured doctoral programme (often called a graduate school or doctoral school) runs as a cohort with a defined curriculum: some taught modules, transferable-skills training, milestones, and frequently a supervision team or thesis committee rather than a single supervisor.

The individual PhD model is supervisor-led and research-first: you work largely one-to-one with a single professor on a project, with little or no formal coursework. This model is common in Germany, Austria and parts of the Nordics, though structured tracks now exist there too. Always read the specific doctoral regulations of the university and faculty you target.

How structured programmes work

Structured programmes typically advertise fixed entry points and an application deadline, admit a cohort together, and embed you in a research group or training network from day one. They usually define expected milestones (proposal defence, progress reports, a final thesis defence) and offer methods, ethics and career-skills training.

Because the framework is defined in advance, these programmes can suit applicants who want clear structure, peer community, and a mapped path. Curriculum, credit (ECTS) expectations and duration vary by programme — verify them on the official doctoral-school page.

How the individual PhD works

In the individual model you usually secure a supervisor first — by contacting a professor whose research matches yours — and then formally enrol or take up a position. There is often more autonomy and flexibility over the project's direction, and fewer fixed taught requirements.

This route rewards self-direction and a clear research idea, but it places more responsibility on you and on the supervisor relationship. The doctoral regulations of each faculty define what is required (proposal, registration, defence), so confirm them on the official source.

Funding looks different in each model

Funding is not tied neatly to one model, but the patterns differ. Structured programmes and graduate schools are frequently attached to a funded project, a research network, or scholarship lines. Individual PhDs may be funded through an employment contract at the university, a stipend/scholarship, a research grant, or be self-funded.

Never assume a specific salary or stipend figure — funding type and amount vary by country, institution, project and source. Check the exact funding, contract type and conditions stated in each advertised position or on the official university page, and verify on the official source.

Which model fits you?

There is no universally "better" route — the right choice depends on how you work and what you want from the experience. Many applicants apply to both formats and compare the concrete offers, supervision arrangements and funding on the table.

• Want a defined curriculum, milestones and a cohort? Look at structured/graduate-school programmes
• Have a clear idea and prefer autonomy under one supervisor? The individual PhD may fit
• Check whether supervision is a single supervisor or a thesis committee
• Compare the funding mechanism (employment contract vs stipend vs scholarship) of each offer
• Read the faculty's official doctoral regulations before deciding