Business Economics

The programme is divided into two stages: the preparatory phase and the dissertation phase.

The preparatory phase consists of a series of curricular components. During this stage, methodological and subject-specific skills are further developed. In addition, doctoral students prepare a preliminary study or research plan for their dissertation, which they present in a colloquium.

The second stage of the programme is the dissertation phase. The research work is carried out independently, and the results are presented in the form of a dissertation. The dissertation is concluded with a disputation, that is, an oral defence.

If a candidate is in employment outside the University of Liechtenstein, it must be possible to complete their degree and research within the specified timeframe. This requires a significant reduction in their working hours.

Working more >50 can only be successfully combined with a PhD programme if there is a clear overlap in content or synergy between the work and the research topic, and if the employer supports the studies.

Curriculum

With a doctoral degree in economics from the University of Liechtenstein, you will have a wide range of career opportunities. You will be qualified for leading academic positions, such as professor or research director at universities and research institutions. In business, you can take on top positions in large companies, consulting firms or international financial institutions. Your expertise in areas such as entrepreneurship, management, information systems and international financial services will also make you a sought-after expert for strategic and academic consulting. Additionally, you can work in policy consulting, with international organisations or in corporate research to develop innovative solutions and concepts.

To apply for the doctoral programme in business economics at the University of Liechtenstein, you must have completed at least 270 ECTS credits in consecutive or equivalent higher education programmes. A university master's degree or equivalent university degree is required. Your previous education must be relevant in the field of business economics. In addition, you must have language skills at level C1 in the language of instruction. The application is submitted via our Application  Form. Your application must be complete by the end of the application period. We look forward to receiving your application.

Please note that admission to the doctoral programme does not include a position as a research assistant at the university, and that we do not offer scholarships.

PhD students are not entitled to a residence permit in Liechtenstein due to the programme. Therefore, an application only makes sense for students who hold a residence permit already for Liechtenstein, Switzerland or EU.

Admission Guidelines

Guidelines for future doctoral students

Campus life combines academic learning, practical experience and an active community. The student-founded initiative UniVision offers projects in strategy and process management, while START Vaduz fosters entrepreneurial thinking with pitch events and networking. “Spinnerei” shapes social life on campus and runs the “Red Cube Bar” as a popular meeting place. Numerous sports activities provide exercise and balance alongside your studies. This creates a campus environment that offers valuable connections, practical experience and a wide range of leisure opportunities. You can find more information and details on the Student Life page.