PhD Program in Mathematics

The Doctoral Research Program in Mathematics is a collaborative initiative involving the University of Parma, the University of Ferrara, and the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia. Established in 2013, this program has gained recognition both nationally and internationally. Enrolled students not only benefit from a diverse array of educational resources across the three campuses but also, most importantly, from the extensive research expertise of the faculty members of the Graduate Committee, totaling over 60 researchers across the three universities. The Program offers a comprehensive curriculum covering all areas of Mathematics, providing students with a broad spectrum of knowledge. The diverse skills within the faculty ensure a robust and high-quality research experience. With an extensive network of national and international collaborations and the expertise of the research staff, the program offers an intensive research experience in Mathematics. Currently coordinated by the University of Ferrara, the PhD Program in Mathematics invites eligible Master's graduates, including those with equivalent degrees from abroad, in the scientific-technological field, demonstrating robust and documented mathematical proficiency.

The program spans over three years, encompassing disciplinary activities such as courses, workshops, seminars, conferences, and graduate schools, as well as interdisciplinary activities and research. Doctoral students are required to acquire 60 credits (CFU) annually. Around 20 CFU should be earned through Ph.D. courses, including 16 CFU from disciplinary courses and 4 CFU from interdisciplinary courses. At least 40 CFU should be obtained instead through research activities. 

Each graduate student is assigned a Faculty Member of the Graduate Committee as a Tutor. Over time, the role of the Tutor transitions to the Thesis Supervisor chosen by the student. At the beginning of each year, graduate students present a Plan of Research Activities approved by their Tutor or Thesis Advisor. Subsequently, they submit an annual activities report at the end of each year.

The University of Parma has entered into two collaborative agreements, facilitating the achievement of a dual degree in Mathematics. The first partnership is established with Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (Belgium) and involves their PhD program in Engineering Science. The second collaboration is with Universidade do Minho (Portugal) and encompasses their PhD Program in Mathematics.

According to the terms of each agreement, PhD students from either institution, upon dedicating a substantial period to the host institution and actively engaging in a mutually agreed-upon research project, will be eligible to fulfill the requirements for a PhD degree at both universities. Consequently, these students will be conferred with a PhD title from each University, resulting in the attainment of a dual PhD title.