Doctoral Programme Democracy Studies

The Doctoral Programme Democracy Studies is an interdisciplinary doctoral training at the University of Zurich under the Social Sciences group in the Graduate School of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

Democracy Studies supports the study of diverse and multifaceted qualitative and quantitative approaches to the phenomenon of democracy and its manifestations.

Democracy Studies UZH

What members say:

“The DPDS gave me a heartfelt and supportive environment, where I could learn and grow during my time as a PhD student, expand my academic horizon, and establish wonderful friendships that will remain.” D.K.

“With its close-knit and supportive cohort of peers, the varied and stimulating course offer, and an enjoyable and well-adjusted environment, DPDS has been one of the best educational/professional decisions I have ever made.” C.V.

“It feels enriching to be a newcomer to the Democracy Studies community after a gap year without attending any uni courses. For me, Democracy Studies means an exciting exchange with like-minded people. We can grow together.” R.C.

Spring Semester 2026

Activity	Date	Instructor	Location	Notes
Democracy Studies Workshop Democracy in Practice - Democracy Goes to School	TBD	Monika Walids (FHNW)	AFL F 101 Bern Bundeshaus	Democracy Studies Curriculum - Advanced Module
Democracy Studies Research Colloquium	TBD	Doreen Spörer-Wagner	AFL F 101	Democracy Studies Curriculum- Core Module (members only)
Swiss Summer School in Democracy Studies DEMOCRACY, INEQUALITY AND MINORITIES	22-26 June 2026	Prof. Nathalie Giger Prof. Nenad Stojanović	University of Geneve	Democracy Studies Curriculum- Core Module