In the doctoral program, a thesis based on a research project is developed by the student within one of the research lines and research groups of PPGEELT-UFU, under the supervision of one of the accredited faculty members.

The Doctoral Program at PPGEELT has a minimum duration of 24 months and a maximum duration of 48 months. The curriculum comprises a total of 75 credits, distributed as follows:

• 24 credits in elective courses (other subjects);
• 51 credits in required courses (Doctoral Thesis and Research Methodology and Scientific Writing).

Additionally, doctoral students must demonstrate proficiency in two foreign languages, one of which must be English.
For doctoral candidates who already hold a Master’s degree, a minimum of 9 (nine) credits in coursework is required.

Grading Scale:

A – Excellent: 90–100% achievement; credits awarded

B – Good: 75–89% achievement; credits awarded

C – Regular: 60–74% achievement; credits awarded

D – Insufficient: 40–59% achievement; no credits awarded

E – Failed: 0–39% achievement; no credits awarded

After completing the required coursework and demonstrating proficiency in two foreign languages, the student must undergo a Qualifying Examination, during which an Examination Committee will evaluate the progress and quality of the research conducted up to that point. This examination must be completed within 24 months from the beginning of the program, with the possibility of a 12-month extension under justified circumstances.

The final stage of the program consists of the defense of the doctoral thesis, assessed by an Examination Committee in a public session. The completion of all credits and the approval of the thesis confer the title of Doctor of Science.

Applicant Profile

Applicants must hold a completed Master’s degree and a full undergraduate degree (long-cycle program) recognized by the Brazilian Ministry of Education (MEC), in the field specified in the Admission Notice.