Doctorates provide the expertise necessary for high-level research activities in both public and private institutions.

The doctorate involves the planning and execution of a research project, by way of advanced educational programmes, individual in-depth study and, in many cases, through cultural exchanges with other countries

A doctoral degree is awarded after a period of study lasting three to four years, and following the presentation of an original doctoral thesis.

The PhD in Economics is a three-year program of the Universities of Milan and Pavia. The PhD degree is awarded after completion of coursework and defense of an original thesis. Every year, six fully-funded positions are offered to selected candidates.