This is a three-year programme in which students have opportunities to develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills. During their first year, doctoral candidates attend six compulsory seminars focused on theories and methodologies in public policy, as well as two elective units that may cover any of the following areas: social policy, defense and external relations, education, health, the environment, immigration, media, science and technology, energy and development. In the following two years, candidates prepare their theses through conducting research in the Centre for Research and Studies in Sociology (CIES-IUL). In addition, candidates attend a research seminar, an international conference cycle and the Public Policy Forum.

Students who finish the first year of the course will receive a Diploma of Advanced Studies in Public Policy with 60 credits (ECTS).

The staff of teachers and conference speakers combines international and Portuguese specialists, including social scientists, lawyers and economists, former ministers, experts and high-level policy-makers.

The coordination of the PhD programme is managed by Pedro Adão e Silva.

Iscte may award merit scholarships to candidates for this course.

Useful links

International PhD Conferences Cycle

X ESPP PhD Colloquium | 27, 28 & 29 of May 2024

Public Policy Forum 2024

Centro de Investigação e Estudos de Sociologia (CIES-Iscte)

General Regulatory Standards for Iscte Doctorate Degrees | EN

Specific Norms of the PhD in Public Policy (2016) | PT

Alteration of acceptability - Project | Public Session | PT