The PhD programme in Medical Sciences consists of 240 ECTS of which at least:

60 ECTS correspond to the teaching part of the programme, 

120 ECTS to the research part and 

60 ECTS to the Thesis Writing and presentation stage.

Two different pathways would be available for candidates depending on their academic background:

1. For candidates who do not hold a Medical Degree (MD) 

an MSc degree will be a prerequisite for enrolment in the PhD programme. All candidates holding an MSc (including MD graduates who also hold an MSc degree) will be exempted from the teaching part of the PhD programme (up to 60 ECTS). 

2. For candidates who hold a Medical Degree (MD)

will be partially exempted (30 ECTS) from the teaching part of the PhD (due to the 6-year length of study of the MD course). 

The remaining ECTS, must be obtained through the following elective courses:

a) Group A (minimum 15 ECTS)

These courses are taught as part of the Medical School’s MSc programmes (MSc in Precision Medicine in Clinical Practice & MSc in Methods in Medical Research) based on candidate’s PhD research topic. 

b) Group B (minimum 10 ECTS)

These courses cover broader academic areas, enabling students to choose subjects relevant to their doctoral research.

The remaining 5 ECTS may be obtained from either Group A or Group B.

• Letter(s) of Reference
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Research Interests

The following documents will be required as part of the student’s application to meet the eligibility criteria for the postgraduate programme:

•Medical Degree from a recognized University (for medical doctors) or

•Bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from a recognized University – relative subjects (for nonmedical graduates) 

•At least two letters of recommendation by University Professors familiar with the candidate and his/her academic performance. Candidates are expected to request letters of recommendation to be sent directly to the Coordinator of Postgraduate Studies of the Medical School

•Evidence of good knowledge of the English language (at IELTS level or above)

•A preliminary research proposal for a PhD place

•Each of the potential research supervisors may also add desirable criteria, depending on the field and the particular topic of the PhD, and quality indicators such as: 

(a) relevant publications in scientific journals

(b) students’ participation in seminars, symposia, research programmes,

(c) presentations by students at conferences,

(d) professional experience