The Faculty of Business and Economics at MENDELU is expanding its cooperation with prestigious American universities. Talented Ph.D. students can study at PEF MENDELU and simultaneously attend classes at the University of Memphis or the University of Arkansas. The program is designed as a full-fledged double-degree program. Upon successful completion, graduates will receive degrees from both universities.
One of the first to take advantage of this opportunity is Dominik Svoboda, who is in his second year of the Finance program at the University of Memphis. However, the opportunity to study for a Ph.D. in the US applies to all doctoral programs at PEF MENDELU. It should be noted, however, that this is a very demanding program.
“First and foremost, students are expected to devote their full time to their studies (full-time). We will first assess students’ motivation to study in the US through an entrance interview. The preparation will also include a special course for talented Ph.D. students, which we are currently preparing,” explains Svatopluk Kapounek, Dean of PEF MENDELU.
“Each potential applicant must first master the methodological basics of scientific work and demonstrate their research skills. They can therefore apply to study in the US at the end of their second year and during their third year,” adds Kapounek.
The University of Memphis works closely with FedEx, and the University of Arkansas with Walmart. This allows students to work on research projects hand in hand with the business world. “Researchers at the University of Memphis conduct analyses for FedEx, focusing on logistics, management, and other areas. The same is true at the University of Arkansas, where Walmart is headquartered. Both institutions are primarily focused on business sciences, which is very attractive to our students and also corresponds to the focus of our faculty. Studying at both universities prepares future excellent scientists,” explains Kapounek.
PhD studies in the US also offer PEF students significant professional prospects. After completing their doctoral studies at PEF and a partner university in the US, graduates can expect very attractive job offers in foreign academic environments or in international institutions such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, etc. “And if they decide to return to the Czech Republic, I believe that, given the experience they have gained, they will be able to choose a job at any research institution,” concludes Kapounek, summarizing the benefits of studying in the US.
