The latest EUA-CDE survey report, Policies in Doctoral Education: Navigating Geopolitical Change and Technological Acceleration While Advancing Europe’s Society and Competitiveness, offers a comprehensive look at how universities across Europe are responding to the evolving landscape of doctoral education.
Published in 2025, this second set of survey findings draws on responses from 217 universities in 37 countries, providing an unprecedented overview of institutional policies and strategies aimed at strengthening doctoral programmes. The report focuses on how universities navigate complex challenges, including heightened security concerns, rapid technological developments, and the rise of artificial intelligence, while maintaining their role in advancing European society and competitiveness.
Key areas explored include the ways universities collaborate with societal actors at the doctoral level, safeguard academic freedom, and implement research security measures. The survey also examines how doctoral schools are adapting assessment practices, career support, and the use of AI in research, providing practical insights for institutional leaders and policymakers.
Importantly, the report reflects on expectations for the next generation of European research and innovation programmes (2028–2034), offering guidance for universities seeking to align doctoral education with broader European research priorities.
By presenting the policies, practices, and perspectives of institutions across Europe, this publication serves as a vital resource for universities, doctoral schools, and stakeholders who wish to understand the current state of doctoral education and plan for its future development. It also informs the ongoing work of EUA-CDE, supporting member institutions in building doctoral education capacity that meets societal and economic needs.
The report can be accessed here
The EUA-CDE is the European University Association – Council for Doctoral Education. It is a specialised body within the European University Association (EUA) that focuses specifically on doctoral education and research training across Europe.
