Admission to a doctoral programme may be granted to applicants who have completed a Master's degree programme in a field relevant to the research topic, generally with an overall grade of at least “good” (up to grade 2.5).

(§ 6 Voraussetzungen für die Zulassung zur Promotion, Rahmenpromotionsordnung Promotionsverband BW)

Foreign academic degrees require recognition by the Doctoral Committee.

(§ 6 Voraussetzungen für die Zulassung zur Promotion Abs. (7), Rahmenpromotionsordnung Promotionsverband BW)

Yes, this can play a role. In principle, graduates of both universities and universities of applied sciences (HAW/FH) may be admitted to doctoral studies. The prerequisite is generally a relevant Master's degree with at least an overall grade of “good”. Depending on the university, university of applied sciences or doctoral regulations, additional requirements may apply. The specific admission requirements should therefore be checked in the respective doctoral regulations.

(§ 6 Voraussetzungen für die Zulassung zur Promotion Abs. (1), Rahmenpromotionsordnung Promotionsverband BW)

Letters of recommendation or other suitable evidence may be helpful in demonstrating why, despite the final grade, successful completion of the doctoral project can be expected.

(§ 6 Voraussetzungen für die Zulassung zur Promotion Abs. (2), Rahmenpromotionsordnung Promotionsverband BW)

In principle, it is also possible to pursue a doctorate outside the subject area of your Master's degree. Requirements include appropriate academic supervision and an exposé that clearly demonstrates the connection between the applicant’s previous academic background and the planned research project. Depending on the disciplinary proximity of the degree to the intended doctoral field, the Doctoral Committee may impose additional requirements on a case-by-case basis.