Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do a PhD at the Leipzig School of Human Origins while predominantly living in another country?
This is not possible. PhD students who are accepted to our program will work in Leipzig, Germany.
What are the entry requirements?
The entry requirements are a Master or equivalent academic degree in anthropology, biology, biochemistry, psychology, zoology or related fields, and fluency in English. Excellent academic results and some previous research/lab/field experience are of advantage for the success of an application. We expect applicants to have a genuine interest and curiosity in the natural sciences.
How much of the program structure is taught and how much of it is research based?
Our program is mainly about doing research. We do offer a framework of courses to enhance interdisciplinary learning/thinking in our students. The minimum requirement to pass the IMPRS LSHO is to attend and pass three course weeks "Perspectives on Human Origins". Furthermore, students are expected to attend department meetings, group seminars and journal clubs.
Do I need my Master’s degree when I submit my application?
You do not need your Master’s degree at the time of application. But you must have completed your studies and have received your Master’s degree at the time when you start your PhD studies at the IMPRS LSHO.
Can I apply without a TOEFL?
For a successful application proficiency in written and spoken English is required. TOEFL is one measure to proof your proficiency but it is not an absolute requirement for your application to be complete.
Can I apply for a summer internship only?
Sorry, The Leipzig School of Human Origins does not offer such a possibility. If you are interested in doing an internship in one of the five departments of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology (http://www.eva.mpg.de/), please send an email including your curriculum vitae (CV) to info@[>>> Please remove the text! <<<]eva.mpg.de.
I missed the application deadline. What can I do?
The IMPRS LSHO recruits students only once a year. If you have missed the deadline, all you can do is apply next year.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, there is no age limit, but most students are under 26 when they start their doctoral studies and few are over 30.
Can Bachelor graduates also apply to the Leipzig School of Human Origins?
No. Only Master graduates are eligible to apply for and be accepted to our program.
Is the program open to English speakers? Is any fluency in German required?
Our program is taught entirely in English. It is not necessary to speak any German. We do offer free German courses though to facilitate everyday life in Germany for students from abroad.
Which institution will award my doctoral degree?
Typically, Leipzig University – our partner university – will award the doctoral degree. In some cases PhD students have their doctoral degree awarded by another university.
Does The Leipzig School of Human Origins also offer a program for Bachelor or Master students?
No, it does not. An overview of international Bachelor and Master programs in Germany can be found on the website of the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): http://www.daad.de/deutschland/studienangebote/international-programs/en/
Are there any tuition fees?
No, there are no tuition fees. Optionally, PhD students may register at the University of Leipzig and will then have to pay a semester fee of currently 266.90 Euros.