Doctoral studies at the Faculty of Law at the Goce Delcev University – Stip are designed to provide students with deep understanding of legal disciplines through independent scientific research. These programs aim at creating scientific staff and experts who will contribute to the development of legal science and will be ready to occupy leading positions in academic institutions, international organizations, public institutions and the private sector.
The programs combine theoretical knowledge with the practical application of legal principles, enabling students to carry out original research and contribute to the solution of contemporary legal challenges. After completing their studies, students acquire the title of Doctor of Sciences in the chosen field, which opens them the way to careers as university professors, scientists, legal experts and consultants.
With their flexibility and multidisciplinary approach, doctoral studies at the Faculty of Law offer students a unique opportunity to develop their research abilities and contribute to solving contemporary legal and social problems.
Criminal Law (180 ECTS)
Doctoral studies in legal sciences – Criminal law equip doctoral students for independent scientific research work, with in-depth knowledge in the field of criminal law, especially through systematic and critical analysis of the Criminal Law and related topics.
Within the framework of the third cycle of criminal law studies, students participate in a doctoral seminar during the second semester. This seminar aims to prepare doctoral students for independent scientific research through interactive teaching, discussions and work on specific legal topics. The seminar allows students to deepen their knowledge, share their research with other colleagues and receive critical review from their mentors and professors. This phase is crucial for developing research capabilities and providing guidance for future scientific research.
Within doctoral studies, students have the obligation to actively participate in international scientific gatherings related to their doctoral work. These gatherings represent an opportunity to present research results, exchange ideas and receive feedback from renowned scientists and experts in the field. For each participation in such a gathering, students receive a certificate, which serves as proof of their scientific activity and contribution to the international academic community.
Within the framework of doctoral studies in criminal law students have the obligation to realize international mobility, which implies at least a one-week stay in a foreign academic or research institution. This mobility is a significant part of the program as it enables students to expand their knowledge and skills through the exchange of experiences with experts and academics from other countries. International mobility gives them the opportunity to engage in scientific research projects, gain new perspectives and advance their research through the use of resources available internationally.
In addition, the publication of a scientific paper in a reference scientific publication is a key element in the process of preparing the doctoral thesis. Students are required to publish at least two papers prior to the defense of their doctoral thesis, which confirms the scientific relevance and quality of their research. Publishing in reference publications enables students to present their findings to the wider scientific community, gain recognition for their contributions and advance their academic careers.
The next phase is preparation and writing of the doctoral thesis, which extends through the fifth and sixth semesters. This process involves the creation of an original scientific work under the supervision of an accredited professor. Doctoral students conduct research in the area of criminal law, analyzing contemporary legal problems and offering new perspectives or solutions. The work on the doctoral thesis ends with a public defense, during which the student presents his/her research before a committee and proves the relevance and quality of his/her thesis in legal science.
Doctoral studies of legal sciences in the field of Criminal Law last for a period of three years, six semesters.
Upon the completion of the three-year Doctoral studies of the study program Criminal Law, students acquire 180 ECTS
Upon the completion of the third cycle of three-year studies of this program, students acquire the title:
Doctor of Legal sciences (PhD) in Criminal Law, VIII (NQF).
Compulsory Subjects:
- Methodology of scientific research
- Criminal law
- Criminal procedural law
- Criminology
Elective Subjects:
- Juvenile delinquency and justice for children
- EU foreign, security and defense policy
- Victimology
- Hate crimes
- International criminal law
- Transnational organized crime and corruption
- Cybercrime
- Alternative dispute resolution
After completing the studies, the students will acquire:
- Advanced theoretical and practical knowledge of criminal law.
- Ability for critical analysis of legal acts and cases.
- Skills for independent preparation of scientific papers.
- Readiness to participate in judicial, research and academic processes.
Accredited mentors (professors):
- Prof. Olga Kosevaliska, PhD
- Prof. Igor Kambovski, PhD
Upon completion, students can be employed as university professors, judges, prosecutors, attorneys, legal advisors or researchers in areas related to criminal law.
Civil Law (180 ECTS)
Deepening of theoretical and practical knowledge in the area of Civil Law, research of current legal problems and development of abilities for independent scientific and research work.
Within the framework of the third cycle of civil law studies, students participate in a doctoral seminar during the second semester. This seminar aims to prepare doctoral students for independent scientific research through interactive teaching, discussions and work on specific legal topics. The seminar allows students to deepen their knowledge, share their research with other colleagues and receive critical review from their mentors and professors. This phase is crucial for developing research capabilities and providing guidance for future scientific research.
Within doctoral studies, students have the obligation to actively participate in international scientific gatherings related to their doctoral work. These gatherings represent an opportunity to present research results, exchange ideas and receive feedback from renowned scientists and experts in the field. For each participation in such a gathering, students receive a certificate, which serves as proof of their scientific activity and contribution to the international academic community.
Within the framework of doctoral studies in civil law, students have the obligation to realize international mobility, which implies at least a one-week stay in a foreign academic or research institution. This mobility is a significant part of the program as it enables students to expand their knowledge and skills through the exchange of experiences with experts and academics from other countries. International mobility gives them the opportunity to engage in scientific research projects, gain new perspectives and advance their research through the use of resources available internationally.
In addition, the publication of a scientific paper in a reference scientific publication is a key element in the process of preparing the doctoral thesis. Students are required to publish at least two papers prior to the defense of their doctoral thesis, which confirms the scientific relevance and quality of their research. Publishing in reference publications enables students to present their findings to the wider scientific community, gain recognition for their contributions and advance their academic careers.
The next phase is preparation and writing of the doctoral thesis, which extends through the fifth and sixth semesters. This process involves the creation of an original scientific work under the supervision of an accredited professor. Doctoral students conduct research in the area of criminal law, analyzing contemporary legal problems and offering new perspectives or solutions. The work on the doctoral thesis ends with a public defense, during which the student presents his/her research before a committee and proves the relevance and quality of his/her thesis in legal science.
Doctoral studies of legal sciences in the field of Civil Law last for a period of three years, six semesters.
Upon the completion of the three-year Doctoral studies of the study program Civil Law, students acquire 180 ECTS
Upon the completion of the third cycle of three-year studies of this program, students acquire the title: Doctor of Legal Sciences (PhD) in Civil Law (VIII NQF).
Compulsory Subjects:
- Methodology of scientific research work
- General part of civil and Property Law
- Obligation law
- Civil procedural law
Elective Subjects:
- European family law
- Damages law
- Intellectual property law
- Electronic commerce law
- Alternative dispute resolution
After completing the studies, students will acquire:
- In-depth knowledge of civil law.
- Skills for scientific research, legal analysis and interpretation of laws.
- Ability to independently conduct legal research and produce scientific papers.
- Prof. Igor Kambovski, PhD
- Assoc. Prof. Marija Ampovska, PhD
- Assoc. Prof. Milica Sutova, PhD
After completing this third cycle of studies, students can work as university professors, researchers, judges, attorneys and advisors in areas such as Civil Law, Intellectual Property Law, Family Law and Obligation Law.
Business Law (180 ECTS)
Deepening of knowledge and skills in the field of business law, with a focus on company law, corporate governance, competition, international labor and social law, tax law and financial markets.
Within doctoral studies, students have the obligation to actively participate in international scientific gatherings related to their doctoral work. These gatherings represent an opportunity to present research results, exchange ideas and receive feedback from renowned scientists and experts in the field. For each participation in such a gathering, students receive a certificate, which serves as proof of their scientific activity and contribution to the international academic community.
Within the framework of doctoral studies in business law, students have the obligation to realize international mobility, which implies at least a one-week stay in a foreign academic or research institution. This mobility is a significant part of the program as it enables students to expand their knowledge and skills through the exchange of experiences with experts and academics from other countries. International mobility gives them the opportunity to engage in scientific research projects, gain new perspectives and advance their research through the use of resources available internationally.
In addition, the publication of a scientific paper in a reference scientific publication is a key element in the process of preparing the doctoral thesis. Students are required to publish at least two papers prior to the defense of their doctoral thesis, which confirms the scientific relevance and quality of their research. Publishing in reference publications enables students to present their findings to the wider scientific community, gain recognition for their contributions and advance their academic careers.
The next phase is preparation and writing of the doctoral thesis, which extends through the fifth and sixth semesters. This process involves the creation of an original scientific work under the supervision of an accredited professor. Doctoral students conduct research in the area of criminal law, analyzing contemporary legal problems and offering new perspectives or solutions. The work on the doctoral thesis ends with a public defense, during which the student presents his/her research before a committee and proves the relevance and quality of his/her thesis in legal science.
Doctoral studies of Business Law last for a period of three years, six semesters.
Upon the completion of the three-year Doctoral studies of the study program Business Law, students acquire 180 ECTS
Upon the completion of the third cycle of three-year studies of this program, students acquire the title: Doctor of Legal Sciences (PhD) in Business Law (VIII NQF).
Compulsory subjects:
- Methodology of scientific research
- Company law and corporate governance
- Competition law in comparative legal systems
- International labor and social law
Elective subjects:
- Tax law
- Regulation of financial markets and institutions
- International bankruptcy law
- EU internal market law
- Labor and social law
- Resolution of collective labor disputes
- Business criminal law
- Social security law
- Insurance law
- Stock exchange law
Upon completion of studies, students will acquire:
- Deep knowledge of business law, including corporate governance, competition law and financial regulations.
- Ability to critically analyze legal problems in a national and international context.
- Skills for scientific research and creation of original papers.
- Prof. Kristina Miseva, PhD
- Prof. Borka Tusevska Gavrilovic, PhD
- Prof. Biljana Todorova, PhD
After completing their studies, students will be prepared for careers as university professors, attorneys, legal advisors, corporate lawyers, judges and experts in the field of business law, as well as for conducting research in academic and legal institutions.
Political Sciences (Political SYstems) (180 ECTS)
Designed to prepare students to acquire a deep understanding and knowledge in the area of political science, with particular emphasis on political systems. The program focuses on developing abilities for conducting independent research with high scientific integrity and making original contributions that expand the boundaries of the existing knowledge in this area.
The goal of the program is to equip students with critical analytical skills, the ability to evaluate and synthesize new and complex ideas, as well as to acquire competencies for active participation in national and international research networks and projects with scientific relevance. Graduated PhDs in political science should be able to share their research results and offer innovative and practical solutions to complex issues in political systems.
Within the framework of the third cycle of political systems studies, students participate in a doctoral seminar during the second semester. This seminar aims to prepare doctoral students for independent scientific research through interactive teaching, discussions and work on specific legal topics. The seminar allows students to deepen their knowledge, share their research with other colleagues and receive critical review from their mentors and professors. This phase is crucial for developing research capabilities and providing guidance for future scientific research.
Within doctoral studies, students have the obligation to actively participate in international scientific gatherings related to their doctoral work. These gatherings represent an opportunity to present research results, exchange ideas and receive feedback from renowned scientists and experts in the field. For each participation in such a gathering, students receive a certificate, which serves as proof of their scientific activity and contribution to the international academic community.
Within the framework of doctoral studies in political systems, students have the obligation to realize international mobility, which implies at least a one-week stay in a foreign academic or research institution. This mobility is a significant part of the program as it enables students to expand their knowledge and skills through the exchange of experiences with experts and academics from other countries. International mobility gives them the opportunity to engage in scientific research projects, gain new perspectives and advance their research through the use of resources available internationally.
In addition, the publication of a scientific paper in a reference scientific publication is a key element in the process of preparing the doctoral thesis. Students are required to publish at least two papers prior to the defense of their doctoral thesis, which confirms the scientific relevance and quality of their research. Publishing in reference publications enables students to present their findings to the wider scientific community, gain recognition for their contributions and advance their academic careers.
The next phase is preparation and writing of the doctoral thesis, which extends through the fifth and sixth semesters. This process involves the creation of an original scientific work under the supervision of an accredited professor. Doctoral students conduct research in the area of criminal law, analyzing contemporary legal problems and offering new perspectives or solutions. The work on the doctoral thesis ends with a public defense, during which the student presents his/her research before a committee and proves the relevance and quality of his/her thesis in legal science.
Doctoral studies of Political Sciences from the area of Political Systems last for a period of three years, six semesters.
Upon the completion of the three-year doctoral studies of the study program Political Systems, students acquire 180 ECTS
Upon the completion of the third cycle of three-year studies of this program, students acquire the title: Doctor of Political Sciences (PhD) in Political Systems (VIII NQF).
Compulsory subjects:
- Methodology of scientific research work
- Analysis of public policies
- Models of democratization and advancement of human rights in post-communist systems
- Political culture and political socialization
Elective subjects:
- Nationalism and ethnic conflicts
- Political movements and unions
- Modern Elective systems and Elective campaigns
- Foreign, security and defense policy of the European Union
- Science of administration
- Institutional and legal order of the European Union
- Parliamentarism
- Modern theories of management and decision-making
- Policies of sustainable development
Knowledge and skills that students acquire within the framework of doctoral studies in the field of political systems:
- They have a perfect command of research methods in legal and political sciences.
- They apply research achievements in the field of political systems with a high degree of scientific integrity.
- Demonstrate supreme independence in collecting, processing and analyzing data, as well as in drawing scientific conclusions.
- Apply and adapt specialized theoretical and practical knowledge about specific and comparative issues in the area of political systems.
- They create new knowledge that is appreciated at the national and international level through peer-reviewed publications.
- Demonstrate a systematic understanding of research methods and skills relevant to political systems.
- They are capable of critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis of new ideas in political science, especially in the domain of political systems.
- They master the competence to evaluate based on available information and are able to synthesize new ideas by applying appropriate methods.
- They create a dialogue about their own professional and scientific field, providing a grounded interpretation.
- They are able to communicate with colleagues, with the wider scientific community and society on topics of their expertise.
- They can contribute to academic, professional, technological, social or cultural advancements in a knowledge-based society.
- Prof. Strasko Stojanovski, PhD
- rof. Jovan Ananiev, PhD
- Prof. Jadranka Denkova PhD
Graduated doctoral students in political science in the area of political systems have a wide range of employment opportunities. They can be engaged as:
- Associates in institutions of higher education (universities, faculties, institutes),
- Employees in state bodies, such as the assembly, government, ministries, directorates, agencies and local government,
- Activities in the executive power, such as advisers, analysts, state secretaries and similar positions in ministries,
- Employment in non-governmental organizations, regional and international associations and organizations,
- Participation in various national and international institutions with political or administrative tasks.
International Law аnd International Relations (180 ECTS)
The aim of the study program is to deepen the knowledge and skills of students in the field of International Law and International Relations, with an emphasis on several key areas. The program focuses on the complex aspects of international law, including the functioning of legal systems and institutions, as well as the rights and obligations of states and non-state actors. Students will develop in-depth understanding of international agreements and conventions, and how they affect global relations.
Furthermore, emphasis is placed on international security and conflict resolution, which includes the study of theories and practices related to security and peacekeeping operations. The program also includes a detailed study of international economic relations, where students will learn about global economic systems, trade and financial relations between countries and international economic institutions.
Particular attention is paid to human rights and humanitarian law, with an emphasis on the practical application and development of policies for the protection of human rights. Diplomatic and consular internships are also a significant part of the program that will help students develop skills for the application of diplomatic protocols and consular services. This study program enables students to have advanced legal research and writing skills, enabling them to analyze legal texts and compose research papers and legal analyses.
Within doctoral studies, students have the obligation to actively participate in international scientific gatherings related to their doctoral work. These gatherings represent an opportunity to present research results, exchange ideas and receive feedback from renowned scientists and experts in the field. For each participation in such a gathering, students receive a certificate, which serves as proof of their scientific activity and contribution to the international academic community.
Within the framework of doctoral studies in political systems, students have the obligation to realize international mobility, which implies at least a one-week stay in a foreign academic or research institution. This mobility is a significant part of the program as it enables students to expand their knowledge and skills through the exchange of experiences with experts and academics from other countries. International mobility gives them the opportunity to engage in scientific research projects, gain new perspectives and advance their research through the use of resources available internationally.
In addition, the publication of a scientific paper in a reference scientific publication is a key element in the process of preparing the doctoral thesis. Students are required to publish at least two papers prior to the defense of their doctoral thesis, which confirms the scientific relevance and quality of their research. Publishing in reference publications enables students to present their findings to the wider scientific community, gain recognition for their contributions and advance their academic careers.
The next phase is preparation and writing of the doctoral thesis, which extends through the fifth and sixth semesters. This process involves the creation of an original scientific work under the supervision of an accredited professor. Doctoral students conduct research in the area of criminal law, analyzing contemporary legal problems and offering new perspectives or solutions. The work on the doctoral thesis ends with a public defense, during which the student presents his/her research before a committee and proves the relevance and quality of his/her thesis in legal science.
Doctoral studies of Business Law last for a period of three years, six semesters.
Upon the completion of the three-year doctoral studies of the study program Business Law, students acquire 180 ECTS.
Upon the completion of the third cycle of three-year studies of this program, students acquire the title: Doctor of Legal sciences (PhD) in International Law and International Relations (VIII NQF).
Enrollment requirement: candidates must have completed master’s studies (second cycle).
Compulsory subjects:
- Methodology of scientific research work
- International public law
- Geopolitics of international relations
- European Union in international relations
Elective subjects:
- Institutional and legal order of the European Union
- International environmental law
- International humanitarian law
- International human rights law
- Foreign, security and defense policy of the European Union
- International trade law
- Policies of sustainable development
- International organizations law
- Spatial freedom, justice and security in the European Union
- Contemporary political systems
- International economic relations
- International criminal law
- Alternative dispute resolution
- Transnational organized crime and corruption
- Diplomatic and consular law
After completing the studies, students will acquire:
- Understanding the complex aspects of international law, including its history, theory and practice.
- Knowledge of the functioning of international courts, authorities and organizations, such as the International Court of Justice and the UN.
- Knowledge of the procedures for negotiation, conclusion and implementation of international agreements and conventions.
- Analysis of the rights and obligations of states and international organizations, as well as non-state actors in the international system.
- Knowledge of theories and practices related to international security, conflict resolution and peacekeeping operations.
- Analysis of international economic systems, trade and financial relations between states and global economic institutions.
- In-depth knowledge of international standards for the protection of human rights and humanitarian law.
- Knowledge of diplomacy, diplomatic protocols and consular services within international relations.
- Understanding the legal aspects of environmental protection on a global level and international environmental policies.
- Skills for performing complex legal research, analysis of legal texts and composing scientific papers and legal analyses.
- Prof. Ana Nikodinovska Krstevska, PhD
- Prof. Dejan Marolov, PhD
- Prof. Ivica Josifovic, PhD
By completing the study program in International Law and International Relations, students have a wide range of career opportunities in various fields. Some of the potential paths include:
- Specialized lawyers who focus on international legal issues, including human rights law, trade law, and environmental law.
- Work in diplomatic missions or consulates, managing bilateral relations and resolving diplomatic and consular issues.
- Professionals who work for government agencies, non-governmental organizations or companies, and who deal with strategic planning and analysis of international relations.
- They can participate in international peacekeeping missions or develop strategies to manage security challenges.
- Analyze global economic trends and their impact on trade and financial markets.
- They work in international and local organizations focused on the protection and promotion of human rights.
- They participate in the work of organizations such as the UN, the European Union or the World Trade Organization, and contribute to the creation and implementation of global policies.
- Work at universities or research institutes, engaging in in-depth study of legal and international issues.
- Develop and implement strategies for sustainable development, focusing on environmental, economic and social aspects.
- They work on projects focused on development, aid and humanitarian aid, with an emphasis on global challenges and needs.
European Law and European Integrations (180 ECTS)
Deepening of theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of European Law and European Integrations, researching current legal problems and developing abilities for independent scientific research work.
Within the framework of the third cycle of political systems studies, students participate in a doctoral seminar during the second semester. This seminar aims to prepare doctoral students for independent scientific research through interactive teaching, discussions and work on specific legal topics. The seminar allows students to deepen their knowledge, share their research with other colleagues and receive critical review from their mentors and professors. This phase is crucial for developing research capabilities and providing guidance for future scientific research.
Within doctoral studies, students have the obligation to actively participate in international scientific gatherings related to their doctoral work. These gatherings represent an opportunity to present research results, exchange ideas and receive feedback from renowned scientists and experts in the field. For each participation in such a gathering, students receive a certificate, which serves as proof of their scientific activity and contribution to the international academic community.
Within the framework of doctoral studies in political systems, students have the obligation to realize international mobility, which implies at least a one-week stay in a foreign academic or research institution. This mobility is a significant part of the program as it enables students to expand their knowledge and skills through the exchange of experiences with experts and academics from other countries. International mobility gives them the opportunity to engage in scientific research projects, gain new perspectives and advance their research through the use of resources available internationally.
In addition, the publication of a scientific paper in a reference scientific publication is a key element in the process of preparing the doctoral thesis. Students are required to publish at least two papers prior to the defense of their doctoral thesis, which confirms the scientific relevance and quality of their research. Publishing in reference publications enables students to present their findings to the wider scientific community, gain recognition for their contributions and advance their academic careers.
The next phase is preparation and writing of the doctoral thesis, which extends through the fifth and sixth semesters. This process involves the creation of an original scientific work under the supervision of an accredited professor. Doctoral students conduct research in the area of criminal law, analyzing contemporary legal problems and offering new perspectives or solutions. The work on the doctoral thesis ends with a public defense, during which the student presents his/her research before a committee and proves the relevance and quality of his/her thesis in legal science.
Doctoral studies of European Law and European Integrations last for a period of three years, six semesters.
Upon the completion of the three-year doctoral studies of the study program European Law and European Integrations, students acquire 180 ECTS.
Upon the completion of the third cycle of three-year studies of this program, students acquire the title: of Legal sciences (PhD) in Law of the European Union Law and European Integration (VIII NQF).
Enrollment requirement: candidates must have completed master’s studies (second cycle).
Compulsory subjects:
- Methodology of scientific research work
- Institutional and legal order of the European Union
- Internal market of the European Union law
- Integration processes of the European Union
Elective subjects:
- International public law
- International environmental law
- Civil procedural law of the European Union
- European system of human rights protection
- Foreign, security and defense policy of the European Union
- International organizations law
- Intellectual property law
- Transnational organized crime and corruption
- Policies of sustainable development
- European family law
- European banking law and financial services
- International criminal law
- European labor law and social dialogue in the European Union
- European Union in international relations
- Area of freedom, security and justice
After completing their studies, students will acquire:
- In-depth understanding of the European Union legal order, including the legislative, judicial and executive systems. This includes knowledge of EU treaties, regulations, directives and judgments of the EU Court.
- Understanding the historical and political aspects of the process of European integration, including the phases of integration and the role of different institutions and actors in the process.
- Knowledge of various EU policies, such as economic, social, security and foreign policies, and analysis of their impact on member states and third countries.
- Analysis of the relationship between European and international law, including the principle of supremacy of European law and its influence on the international obligations of states.
- Developing advanced skills for legal research, research methodology and analysis of legal texts, which includes the application of quantitative and qualitative methods in legal research.
- Improving the ability to develop legal arguments and compose academic papers, legal analyses and documents that are important for European law and integration.
- Ability to critically analyze judgments of EU Courts and other legal texts, and assess their impact on the European legal system and EU policies.
- Skills for performing complex legal research, analysis of legal texts and composing scientific papers and legal analyses.
- Assessment of current and proposed reforms in the legal and institutional system of the EU and their impact on the functions and powers of the EU institutions.
- Readiness to work in legal practice and consulting, with a focus on European legal issues, which includes working with law firms, companies, non-governmental organizations and government agencies.
- Prof. Ana Nikodinovska Krstevska, PhD
- Prof. Dejan Marolov, PhD
- Prof. Ivica Josifovic, PhD
Doctoral studies in European law and European integrations can open up various career opportunities in different fields:
- Academic career: Teaching and research at universities or scientific institutes, which may include conducting own research projects and publishing scientific papers.
- Legal practice: Working as an attorney or legal adviser, especially in areas related to European law, such as human rights and European integration.
- Political consultant: Offering advisory services to political parties, government agencies or non-governmental organizations regarding European politics and integration.
- Leadership in international organizations: Work in international organizations such as the European Union, the Council of Europe or the United Nations, which deal with European and global legal and integration issues.
- European Regulation Specialist: Work in companies or organizations that need experts in the areas of European regulations and legislation.
- Legislative advisors: Assistance in creating or revising policies and legislation related to European integration and rights.
- Research institutes and non-governmental organizations: Work on projects focused on European legal systems and integration processes.