Study location	Hungary, Budapest
Type	Doctoral, full-time
Nominal duration	8 semesters (240 ECTS)
Study language	English
Awards	PhD

Tuition fee	€4,000 per semester
Application fee	€150 one-time

Entry qualification	Postgraduate diploma (or higher) Those who are in their last year of master’s education can also start their application and upload their final transcript and the master’s degree certificate later on. You must take the original entry qualification documents along with you when you finally go to the university.

Language requirements	English A minimum of B2 level English knowledge is required.

Other requirements

At least 2 reference(s) must be provided. A motivation letter must be added to your application. The following documents must be uploaded to the application: Master’s degree and transcripts Curriculum Vitae with a list of publications Abstract of the research plan signed by the supervisor Proof of language proficiency An official certificate of no criminal record, issued within the last three months, or an equivalent document for foreign nationals

Overview

The Doctoral School of Sport Sciences at the Hungarian University of Sports Science (HUSS) stands as the only one of its kind in Hungary, offering students a unique opportunity to explore the exciting and diverse world of sport sciences.

At the Doctoral School, students benefit from the mentorship of expert supervisors who are committed to their success. With the guidance of seasoned professors and dedicated researchers, students gain invaluable insights that shape and elevate their research, helping them push boundaries and make their mark in the world of sport sciences.
Our laboratories serve as the foundation for research in natural sciences, where the majority of PhD students are engaged in cutting-edge projects. This hands-on research environment ensures that students not only gain academic expertise but also the practical skills needed to lead and innovate in the field.
Thanks to HUSS’s strong partnerships with both Hungarian and international universities, students benefit from access to the latest research methodologies and an extensive network of global experts. The Doctoral School also proudly hosts several international supervisors, whose invaluable insights and expertise elevate the quality of our programs and contribute to a truly global perspective on sport sciences.
The diverse research topics available reflect the dynamic and interdisciplinary nature of the work conducted across our different doctoral programs, ensuring that every student finds a path that aligns with their interests and career goals.

At the Doctoral School, students gain in-depth knowledge of sports sciences, mastering both the theories and research methods that shape the field. They develop the ability to think critically, analyze data creatively, and solve complex problems independently. Students also become skilled communicators, able to present their findings clearly, both in writing and speaking, to a wide audience. Beyond technical expertise, they cultivate a proactive and open-minded attitude, always ready to embrace new methods, collaborate with others, and uphold strong research ethics. This combination of knowledge, skills, and attitude prepares students to make meaningful contributions to their field and succeed in their professional careers.

Head of the Doctoral Council: József Tihanyi PhD, DSc

Head of the Doctoral School: Zsolt Radák PhD, DSc

Programme structure

Doctoral studies at the HUSS consist of two sections:

In the first two-year period, which focuses on training and research, a student maintains a relationship with the University for up to four semesters. During this time, both the rights and obligations of the doctoral student and the University are defined by the legislation on higher education. This phase concludes with a comprehensive examination, which must be completed by the end of the fourth semester.

The second two-year period, which involves research and the dissertation stage, lasts up to four semesters and leads to the doctorate. This stage may begin once a doctoral student has successfully completed the training and research phase and passed the comprehensive examination.

If all administrative and academic prerequisites are met, students may bypass the first stage and directly enter the second phase. Regardless, ensuring the high quality of our students’ education remains our top priority.

Programs

• Training and Adaptation | Program leader: Gábor Pavlik professor emeritus, MD, PhD, DS

• Physical Training, Regulation, Metabolism | Program leader: Zsolt Radák professor, PhD, DSc

• Sport and Social Sciences | Program leader: Gyöngyi Földesiné-Szabó professor emerita, PhD, DSc

• Educational Science and Sportpedagogy / Program leader: Pál Hamar, professor, PhD, DSc

Supervisors and topics

Career opportunities

Graduates of the Doctoral School of Sport Sciences at the Hungarian University of Sports Science (HUSS) are well-prepared for diverse and rewarding career paths in academia, research, and the sports industry. The doctoral program is meticulously designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and research skills, preparing them for scientific research and higher education roles within the sports sciences domain.