International Dimension

Doctoral education without borders

International experience is an integral part of doctoral education at UNICAM. PhD candidates develop their research within international networks, collaborate with institutions and researchers abroad and may undertake part of their doctoral pathway at a qualified host organisation.

International by design

Expand your research through international collaboration

A period outside UNICAM provides access to new methods, facilities, academic communities and professional environments. It also strengthens scientific independence, intercultural skills and the international visibility of the doctoral project.

6 months

normally expected abroad

≥ 50%

additional support when applicable

12 / 18

maximum funded months under current rules

These figures describe the current general UNICAM framework.
Requirements may differ according to the PhD cycle, Programme, call for applications, scholarship funding line or specific institutional agreement.
Consult the applicable PhD Regulations →

International opportunities

Different ways to internationalise your PhD

01 · RESEARCH ABROAD

Research periods at host institutions

Carry out part of your research at a foreign university, research centre, laboratory, company or other qualified organisation relevant to your doctoral project.

02 · RESEARCH NETWORKS

International scientific collaboration

Work with researchers from different countries, contribute to shared projects and participate in the international scientific networks connected with your PhD Programme.

03 · SPECIALIST TRAINING

Courses, schools and scientific events

Attend international doctoral schools, advanced courses, workshops, seminars and conferences that support the research project and individual training plan.

04 · CO-TUTORSHIP

Joint thesis supervision

A thesis co-tutorship is established through a specific agreement between UNICAM and a foreign university. The candidate works under supervisors from both institutions and alternates research periods between the partner universities.

05 · INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS

Joint and special mobility projects

International agreements may support dedicated scholarships, mobility opportunities, joint research activities or doctoral pathways involving several academic and research institutions.

06 · SCIENTIFIC COMMUNICATION

English and international visibility

English is central to doctoral education at UNICAM and supports participation in international research, publication, collaboration and communication of scientific results.

Your international pathway

From the research project to the experience abroad

STEP 01

Define the objective

Identify the scientific purpose and expected contribution to the doctoral project.

STEP 02

Identify the host

Select an institution, research group or organisation with the expertise and facilities needed.

STEP 03

Agree the research plan

Discuss dates, activities and expected results with the Supervisor, host and Programme Coordinator.

STEP 04

Complete the procedure

Obtain academic authorisation and complete all administrative requirements before departure.

Thesis co-tutorship

A structured doctoral pathway between two universities

Co-tutorship is not simply an extended research visit. It requires a formal agreement defining supervision, mobility, enrolment, thesis preparation, final examination and the qualification awarded by the partner institutions.

The possibility should be discussed with the Supervisor and Programme Coordinator at an early stage, allowing sufficient time for academic approval and preparation of the agreement.

Before applying

Check the international requirements of the specific position

Some scholarships and research topics are linked to international projects, partner universities, mandatory mobility periods or additional reporting obligations. Always consult the Programme information, official call and relevant annexes.

Current PhD candidates

Planning an actual period abroad?

Consult the operational mobility section for prior authorisation, host-institution documents, scholarship increase, missions, certification of activities, insurance and administrative support.

Plan and manage your mobility →

Information and support

Discuss your international pathway early

Contact your Supervisor and Programme Coordinator for scientific planning. Contact the Advanced Studies Office for assistance with the applicable administrative procedure or institutional agreement.

Contact the Advanced Studies Office →