Semarang (22/05) – International standard education is one of the key pillars in efforts to improve the quality of education at Universitas Diponegoro (Undip). Pursuing doctoral studies abroad is an effective strategy to achieve this goal. By gaining academic experience from leading universities in various countries, lecturers and students of Undip are expected to bring the latest knowledge and innovations that can be applied in Indonesia. In line with this vision, the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) Undip held a workshop titled “Unlocking Opportunities, Securing Academic PhD Scholarships in Western Countries” on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, FISIP Undip organized the workshop “Unlocking Opportunities, Securing Academic PhD Scholarships in Western Countries” in the Senate Meeting Room, Building A, 2nd Floor. The event invited Prof. Thomas Seitz from the School of Politics, Public Affairs & International Studies, University of Wyoming, as the keynote speaker. The moderator for the workshop was Dzunuwanus Ghulam Manar, S.IP, M.Si, a lecturer from the Department of Government and Political Science, FISIP Undip.

This workshop was open to lecturers within FISIP Undip who aspire to pursue PhD scholarship programs. In his introduction, Ghulam mentioned that this workshop aimed to increase the opportunities for further studies for lecturers within FISIP Undip. “This is in line with the faculty’s responsibility to strengthen the international standard of education quality that has been achieved so far,” he said. Ghulam also hoped that this activity could enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries, namely Indonesia and the United States.

In his presentation, Prof. Thomas Seitz outlined various strategies that could be pursued to apply for doctoral programs in Western countries. Some of the important points to consider include identifying the programs of interest, understanding the culture of the university and department, formulating reasons for choosing the program, contacting potential supervisors, meeting good application criteria, and composing the proper application elements. Prof. Seitz also emphasized the importance of a clear and comprehensive research proposal and strong reference/recommendation/support letters.

By holding this workshop, it is hoped that participants will gain clearer insights and guidance in the process of applying for PhD scholarships and increase their chances of being accepted into prestigious doctoral programs in Western countries. This workshop is also a tangible step by FISIP Undip in supporting Undip’s vision as a university that excels in research and international standard education.