Doctoral Studies - VDU Ekonomikos ir vadybos fakultetas

Doctoral Studies

Vytautas Magnus University Faculty of Economics and Management (VMU FEM / EVF) trains researchers who can independently conduct scientific research, generate new knowledge, and address relevant challenges in economics and management. EVF offers Doctoral Studies in two fields: Economics and Management. Since doctoral studies were launched at the university (after VMU was re-established in 1989), more than 80 dissertations were defended in 1993–2020—this is a strong line of academic tradition that continues today.

Why choose it?

  • A strong research environment. Research clusters, methodological mentoring, and publishing + conference practice from the first year.
  • International dimension and networks. Research stays, projects, and partnerships in Lithuania and abroad (including VMU’s international networks).
  • A link to practice. Collaboration with business and the public sector, data-driven problem definition, and opportunities to create real impact on policies and organizations.
  • Academic career development. Teaching, leading seminars, participating in projects, and preparing grant applications—building readiness for a researcher/lecturer pathway.
  • A clear tradition. 30+ years of doctoral experience at the university and consistent dissertation output—a reliability anchor.

How does it work?

  • Fields. Economics and Management.
  • Structure. Advanced theory and methods courses, individual research with a supervisor, publications, conferences, research stays; the final stage is the PhD dissertation defense.
  • Organization. Doctoral studies are implemented in line with VMU doctoral regulations; inter-institutional supervision and co-authorship with partners are possible.
  • Admissions. Competitive selection based on academic achievements, a preliminary research idea/topic, possible motivation interview, and supervisor(s) alignment. Admissions information.
  • Research areas (examples). Macro- and microeconomics, applied economics, finance, innovation, organizational management, strategy, marketing, consumer behavior, sustainability, digitalization, and more.
  • More information. VMU website.

Rights and partnerships

  • VMU doctoral rights. In 2011, the university was granted the right to deliver doctoral studies in 18 fields of science; since 2019—in 23 fields together with Lithuanian research and higher education institutions.
  • Partners. Šiauliai Academy, Klaipėda University, Mykolas Romeris University, and ISM University of Management and Economics.