PhD candidates at VU Amsterdam are trained to become curious, innovative, and engaged academic researchers.
PhD candidates are experts in their field, know how to look beyond the boundaries of disciplines, and follow a program that contributes to their broad development. They are able to solve complex issues and conduct independent research: obtaining a PhD at VU Amsterdam can lead to a career in and outside of academia.
The Graduate Schools are the communities and academic networks in which PhD candidates are embedded. Our PhD candidates are part of a research culture that encourages openness, transparency, cooperation and diversity.
At VU Amsterdam, you can start a PhD program in various ways: as an employee of VU Amsterdam, or without an employment relationship with VU Amsterdam - for example with the help of a scholarship or external funding. As a self-funded PhD candidate, you conduct your PhD research entirely in your own time and with your own resources.
More information about the various aspects of your PhD program and orienting yourself toward research can be found below.