Pursuing a fully funded PhD in Europe is a dream for many ambitious students who want to build an international academic career, contribute to global research, and work with world-class scholars. For students passionate about sustainability, social sciences, and responsible management, this opportunity can truly be life-changing.
If you are looking for a prestigious, fully salaried doctoral position in one of Europe’s most respected business schools, the Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship could be the perfect next step. This scholarship is not just financial support—it is a professional academic position that allows you to grow as a researcher, teacher, and global scholar.
Denmark is globally recognized for its strong education system, work-life balance, and research excellence. Studying at Copenhagen Business School (CBS) places you at the centre of cutting-edge sustainability research while enjoying one of the highest living standards in the world.
Why You Should Apply for This PhD Opportunity
The Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship is designed for high-achieving graduates who want to make a real impact through research. This program offers much more than a degree—it provides financial security, international exposure, and long-term career prospects.
As a PhD fellow at CBS, you will work in a supportive academic environment, collaborate with experienced supervisors, participate in international conferences, and contribute to teaching activities. The program ensures that students develop strong research, analytical, and academic communication skills, preparing them for careers in academia, policy, or industry.
Most importantly, the scholarship is open to applicants from all countries, making it an inclusive and globally competitive opportunity.
Brief Description (Key Comparison Table)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| University / Organization | Copenhagen Business School (CBS) |
| Department | Department of Management, Society and Communication (MSC) |
| Course Level | PhD |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded (Salary + Benefits) |
| Study Mode | Online Application |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| Location | Denmark |
| Eligible Nationality | Domestic & International |
| Application Deadline | 15 February 2026 |
About Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
Copenhagen Business School is one of Europe’s leading business universities, consistently ranked among the top institutions worldwide for business, management, and social sciences. CBS is internationally respected for its research-driven education, sustainability focus, and interdisciplinary approach.
The Department of Management, Society and Communication (MSC) plays a critical role in advancing research related to corporate responsibility, sustainability transitions, governance, and societal challenges. The department maintains strong links with the Centre for Sustainability, offering PhD students access to influential research networks.
Studying at CBS means becoming part of a global academic community where innovation, ethics, and sustainability are central values.
Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship – Program Overview
The Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship is a fully salaried doctoral position offered within the Department of Management, Society and Communication. Unlike traditional tuition-only scholarships, this program treats PhD candidates as full employees, providing a monthly salary, pension benefits, and professional development opportunities.
The scholarship focuses on sustainability-related topics within the social sciences, encouraging applicants to submit theoretically grounded research proposals with clear empirical relevance.
PhD fellows are expected to:
- Conduct independent, high-quality research
- Publish academic work
- Participate in teaching activities
- Engage in international academic collaboration
This structured yet flexible environment helps students develop into confident and competitive researchers.
Subjects Offered (Inline)
Sustainability studies, social sciences, organizational studies, management research, corporate responsibility, governance, societal change, environmental policy, sustainable business practices
Degree Offered
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Benefits of the Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship
The Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship offers one of the most attractive funding packages in Europe, ensuring that students can focus entirely on their research without financial stress.
Key Financial & Academic Benefits
- Fully salaried PhD position for three years
- Monthly salary ranging from DKK 29,691 to DKK 36,180, depending on experience
- 18.07% pension contribution
- Full coverage of tuition fees
- Dedicated office space and research facilities
- Funding for PhD courses and training
- Approved travel grants for conferences and research stays
- Opportunities for international research visits
- Teaching experience equivalent to 416 work hours
- Access to professional development programs
These benefits make the scholarship not only financially secure but also academically enriching.
Eligible Nationality
- Open to applicants from all countries
- Both Danish and international students are encouraged to apply
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship, applicants must meet all academic and language requirements. CBS maintains high standards to ensure excellence in doctoral research.
Academic Requirements
Applicants must:
Hold a master’s degree following the 3+2 Bologna structure or equivalent
Complete the master’s degree before the application deadline
Achieve a minimum grade of 10 (or equivalent) for the master’s thesis (Danish 7-point scale)
Have a minimum weighted GPA of 8.2 (bachelor’s + master’s combined)
ORAchieve a minimum GPA of 9.5 for the master’s degree alone
ORProvide documentation showing placement in the top 40% of the class
Language Proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic English proficiency, both written and spoken, suitable for research, teaching, and publication.
Research Proposal Requirement
Candidates must submit a well-structured PhD project proposal that is:
- Theoretically grounded
- Empirically focused
- Relevant to sustainability research
- Aligned with the Centre for Sustainability at CBS
A clear and compelling proposal is a critical part of the application.
How to Apply for the Scholarship
Applications for the Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship must be submitted online only through the official CBS recruitment system.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents:
- Five-page PhD project description
- Academic diplomas and transcripts
- Updated CV
- Example of written academic work (such as a master’s thesis)
- Any additional documents requested by CBS
It is strongly recommended to review all documents carefully and ensure accuracy before submission.
Apply Now (Official Links)
Application Portal: Click Here
Official Scholarship Page: Click Here
Applicants are advised to submit their applications well in advance of the deadline to avoid any technical issues.
Application Deadline
- 15 February 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates of the Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship program are highly competitive in the global academic and professional job market. Alumni pursue careers as:
- University lecturers and professors
- Sustainability consultants
- Policy advisors
- Research fellows
- Think-tank analysts
- International organization experts
The combination of research excellence, teaching experience, and international exposure ensures long-term career success.
Why This Scholarship Stands Out
What truly distinguishes the Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship is its balance of academic rigor and professional stability. Unlike many PhD programs, CBS treats doctoral candidates as valued staff members, not just students.
The focus on sustainability ensures that your research contributes to real-world societal challenges, making your work meaningful and impactful beyond academia.
Final Words of Motivation
If you are passionate about research, sustainability, and global change, this scholarship offers a rare opportunity to transform your academic ambitions into reality. Few programs provide such a strong combination of financial security, research freedom, and international prestige.
Do not underestimate your potential. With dedication, a strong proposal, and commitment to excellence, you could soon be conducting research at one of Europe’s most respected institutions. Take the step, prepare your application carefully, and apply with confidence.
