Third Cycle

The third cycle of studies, i.e. the doctoral programme, lasts six semesters (three years) and carries 180 ECTS credits.

To enrol in the third cycle of studies, a candidate must meet the requirements regarding previously completed levels of study, obtain the necessary ecclesiastical blessing for enrolment, choose a field of research, and identify an initial supervisor qualified in the selected field and employed at the “St. Basil of Ostrog Orthodox” Orthodox Theological Faculty.

The initial supervisor guides the candidate throughout the first four semesters. Thereafter, in accordance with the topic of the doctoral dissertation, a dissertation supervisor is appointed and confirmed by the Senate of the University of East Sarajevo.

The study programme is designed so that all courses are elective. They are selected in accordance with the field of research chosen by the candidate upon enrolment and in consultation with the initial supervisor. During each of the first three semesters, the student selects two courses. For each course, the student prepares a seminar paper, which is subsequently defended before a three-member examination committee.

At the end of the fourth semester, the topic of the doctoral dissertation is finalized. It is first defended before the Third Cycle Committee and subsequently before the Committee for the Evaluation of the Dissertation Topic and the Candidate, appointed by the Faculty’s Academic and Scientific Council. Final approval of both the dissertation topic and the supervisor is granted by the Senate of the University of East Sarajevo.

The fifth and sixth semesters are dedicated to the preparation of the doctoral dissertation, which, upon completion, is publicly defended before a committee appointed for that purpose.