Research Master’s and PhD programmes

At the Tilburg University Graduate Schools, the combination of education and research creates a perfect learning and working environment for ambitious students.

Research Masters and PhD programs

Tilburg University has a strong position in research development. The university is involved in different partnerships and joint ventures with other universities and research institutes all over the world. The continuous exchange of knowledge and ideas in these networks makes it possible to create excellent educational programs in research.

The Research Master

The Research Master is a two-year Master’s degree. It gives you a solid, thorough training in the art of thinking: clear reasoning, critical analysis, deciphering complex subjects, and techniques such as conveying your thoughts accurately. As a Master’s graduate you will be able to make a valuable contribution to the intellectual debate, both amongst colleagues and in wider social circles.

In many cases a Research Master prepares you for a PhD program and an academic career. There are eight Research Masters on almost every discipline, meant for talented and motivated students. Usually, a Research Master shortens the PhD program by one year.

PhD Programs

After you have completed a (Research) Master, there are several ways to obtain a PhD degree at Tilburg University. You can be employed by Tilburg University, you can be an external PhD candidate, you can be a PhD candidate with a grant or you can be a dual PhD candidate.

Tilburg University Graduate Schools

The Research Masters and the PhD programs are under the responsibility of the Graduate Schools. To create an excellent quality within the Graduate School, education and research are closely linked. This results in a scientific environment in which (research) master students, PhD candidates and researchers can meet and stimulate each other.