Doctoral Study Programme LANDSCAPE PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT
Graduate profile
A graduate of the Landscape Protection and Management study program is a highly qualified expert with a profound scientific and practical understanding of the protection and sustainable use of natural and cultural landscape resources, ecosystems, biodiversity, and ecological processes.
The graduate possesses the skills and mastery of research methods focused on analyzing the ecological and environmental quality of landscape components, as well as ecological synthesis methods leading to proposals for measures to protect and preserve biodiversity and the overall landscape character. They are qualified to independently and creatively conceptualize, adapt, and comprehensively address issues related to theoretical questions of landscape ecology, biodiversity, and nature conservation, the rational use of natural resources, and the ecologization of selected sectors. Depending on their thesis topic, they are required to become familiar with relevant scientific methods, procedures, and necessary environmental legislation.
The graduate is capable of critical analysis, evaluation, and synthesis of new and complex concepts in landscape ecology, landscape use, and protection. Upon completion of their studies, they publish scientific works that contribute original research to expanding the boundaries of scientific knowledge at both national and international levels. The graduate acquires a level and nature of creative activity that promotes social progress, also in connection with their final thesis, which demonstrates all acquired abilities and skills. During the thesis defense, they demonstrate the ability to communicate with the broader scientific community as well as the general public in areas related to the analysis and evaluation of landscape protection and utilization.
Graduate employment
Graduate of the study program:
- is prepared to work as a researcher at universities with an ecological, agricultural, or biological focus, at selected institutes of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, and at departmental research institutes, where they can independently conduct and lead research focused on landscape processes, sustainable land use, and climate change.
- finds employment as a nature and landscape protection specialist in professional organizations within the environmental sector, state administration, and local government, where they will be able to design and evaluate measures aimed at improving environmental conditions and ecosystem restoration.
- finds significant opportunities in the private sector as an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA/SEA) expert, environmental consultant, or project manager in the fields of landscape planning, regional development, and climate change adaptation.
- will excel as an expert with a deep theoretical background and practical skills, capable of bridging scientific knowledge with real societal needs and contributing to the creation of a sustainable and resilient landscape in Slovakia and within an international context.
Study plan
More details about selection procedures see here
Student handbook for PhD. study
- Student Handbook for Doctoral Studies 2025/2026
- Student Handbook for Doctoral Studies 2024/2025
- Student Handbook for Doctoral Studies 2023/2024
- Student Handbook for Doctoral Studies 2022/2023