Modern History

Explore contemporary history from the nineteenth century to the present through an internationally oriented PhD program focused on Europe, North America, and the post-Soviet space in their global connections. Emphasizing transnational, comparative, and interdisciplinary approaches, the program combines advanced research training with strong international collaboration, including opportunities through the Czech Academy of Sciences and leading partner universities abroad. Graduates gain the analytical expertise and research skills for careers in academia, public institutions, international organizations, and beyond.

Program description

This PhD program focuses on contemporary history from the nineteenth century to the present. It takes Europe, North America and the post-Soviet space as its core regions, while also examining their global entanglements and connections with other parts of the world. The program approaches these areas from a range of perspectives, with particular emphasis on transnational and comparative approaches. Students may also choose the specific research focus area in the History of Science within the program.

The program is offered by the Institute of International Studies in cooperation with the Czech Academy of Sciences, providing PhD students with additional opportunities such as internships and involvement in the activities of this leading Czech research institution. PhD students are integrated into the Institute’s academic life through membership in research groups and participation in territorially focused departments.

Students benefit from the Institute’s extensive contacts with prominent universities abroad, including the École des hautes études en sciences sociales in Paris, the University of Vienna, the University of Warsaw, the University of St Andrews, the University of Groningen, the University of Düsseldorf and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. They may also pursue double supervision of their dissertations through cotutelle arrangements.

For more information about the program, please click here.

After graduation

You will be trained to conduct independent as well as collaborative research on past and present social phenomena and processes, employing advanced scientific methods and approaches. The program equips you with strong analytical and conceptual skills, logical and structured reasoning, and a broad interdisciplinary knowledge base. These competencies prepare you for careers in academia and higher education, as researchers or lecturers, as well as in analytical and expert positions within public administration, international organizations, and the private sector.