Doctoral programme "International Law and International Relations"

Brief Description

Doctoral training in International Law and International Relations at the Institute for the State and the Law of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences reflects contemporary developments in public international law and the interdisciplinary study of international relations.

The programme is designed to provide comprehensive, in-depth training that meets the requirements for the award of the educational and scientific degree of Doctor. It prepares highly qualified specialists in international law and international relations who possess advanced theoretical knowledge and practical research skills and are capable of addressing current and complex issues in contemporary international relations.

Graduates who successfully defend their doctoral dissertations acquire the theoretical and practical skills necessary to apply the primacy of public international law and European Union law, as well as to assess the compatibility of Bulgarian legislation with the international obligations of the Republic of Bulgaria.

Main Objectives and Priorities

The programme’s main objectives and priorities are:

1. To support the mission of the Institute and the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences by conducting research, providing training and carrying out activities of national and international significance; addressing issues relating to the development of Bulgarian society and the state; conducting research in accordance with universal values, national traditions and interests; and contributing to the advancement of the nation’s intellectual and material wealth.
2. To broaden the thematic scope and content of the research conducted within the doctoral programme, including research on European Union law.
3. To train and develop young, highly qualified researchers in the field who can apply theoretical knowledge effectively in professional practice.
4. To create conditions for the development of the Section’s academic staff by attracting young scholars who have obtained a doctoral degree.
5. To promote research in interdisciplinary fields.
6. To maintain and develop a research database on contemporary trends in international law and international relations.
7. To combine theoretical academic training with the development of pedagogical experience and teaching skills in public international law and international relations at higher education institutions.
8. To train highly qualified specialists for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other ministries, central government departments and state authorities requiring expertise in international law and international relations.
9. To ensure a high level of foreign-language proficiency, which is a mandatory admission requirement, together with advanced computer skills.

Professional Competences Acquired upon Completion

Graduates of the programme develop the following competences:

• Comprehensive knowledge and skills in public international law and international relations, including interdisciplinary knowledge.
• Theoretical and practical skills in scholarly analysis and in addressing theoretical and practical problems.
• Ability to use original scholarly works and the findings of the latest research in the field of the doctoral programme.
• Ability to conduct independent research.
• Ability to develop theoretical arguments through critical analysis, defend research conclusions, formulate new hypotheses and propose solutions with practical and societal relevance.
• Ability to implement research projects and participate in academic life.
• Ability to prepare legal opinions for public authorities.
• Advanced expertise in international law and international relations suitable for employment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, other ministries and central government departments, and international organisations.
• Advanced computer and foreign-language proficiency.

Potential Career Opportunities

Graduates may pursue careers as:

• Academic researchers, including researchers at research institutes in Bulgaria and abroad, and university lecturers.
• Diplomats and officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, other ministries, central government departments and state authorities.
• Professionals developing private businesses related to international law and international relations.
• Experts in public administration at all levels, including local self-government.
• Officials in international organisations.
• Highly qualified analysts in the non-governmental sector.