At present the PhD programme lasts four years - the maximum period for such a programme normally allowed by Polish law (limited additional time is permitted for students interrupting their studies f or various reasons). In consultation with the students a reform of the programme is now underway, as a result of which students will spend only two of their four years as doctoral students attending taught courses, devoting the remaining two years entirely to research.

In the first two years of the PhD programme students will be expected to take 5 courses per year with a minimum average mark of 3,5. Six credits will be awarded per 30 hour course. Courses can be chosen from those taken also by students following the MA programme, or from additional courses offered solely for PhD students. Students may also audit courses (i.e. attend but not for credit).

In the third and fourth years of the PhD programme students need not take any courses. However, if they choose to do so in order to maintain a broader range of interests than strictly encompassed by their PhD topic, they may take further courses for credit.

In the third and fourth years of the PhD programme students will be expected to complete at least 20 credit points per year (more than 20 to count as 20). Ten credit points may be gained:

• by publications and/or;
• by teaching activities and/or;
• by attending conferences and summer schools and/or;
• by taking additional courses (see above).

Students will also be expected to join a research project (10 credit points per year).