6 Funded PhD Positions in Medical Humanities and Welfare Policies at the University of Foggia, Italy (2026)
The University of Foggia, Italy has announced six funded PhD positions in the doctoral program “Medical Humanities and Welfare Policies” for the 42nd PhD Cycle (2026/2027).
This interdisciplinary doctoral program explores the relationship between health, society, welfare systems, human experiences, and public policies. Moving beyond a traditional approach focused only on disease prevention and treatment, the program investigates health as a broader condition connected to physical, psychological, social, and environmental well-being.
The PhD reflects the growing international shift toward a salutogenic approach, which studies the factors that create and maintain health rather than focusing exclusively on the causes of illness. For students interested in health sociology, welfare innovation, social change, public health policies, and human-centered healthcare systems, this program offers a unique opportunity to conduct advanced research in Italy.
The PhD in Medical Humanities and Welfare Policies at the University of Foggia offers an excellent opportunity for researchers interested in the future of healthcare, social well-being, and welfare innovation.
With six funded PhD positions, an interdisciplinary research approach, and strong connections between sociology, health policy, and human-centered care, this program prepares doctoral candidates to contribute to the transformation of modern healthcare systems. Applicants interested in social health research, welfare policies, and the relationship between society and well-being should begin preparing their application materials before the 9 September 2026 deadline.
Scholarship Overview
| Scholarship Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Host University | University of Foggia |
| Country | Italy |
| PhD Program | Medical Humanities and Welfare Policies |
| Academic Cycle | 42nd Cycle |
| Main Research Field | Sociology |
| Research Subfield | Social Changes |
| G.S.D. | 14/GSPS-08 – Sociology of Economic, Labour, Environmental and Territorial Processes |
| S.S.D. | GSPS-08/B – Sociology of Environment and Territory |
| Number of Funded Positions | 6 |
| Funding Organization | University of Foggia |
| International Mobility | Required |
| Research Country | Italy |
| Eligible Nationalities | International Applicants |
| Eligible Residence | Applicants from all countries |
| EU Research Framework Funding | No |
| Application Deadline | 9 September 2026 (1:00 PM Italy Time) |
About the PhD Program
The PhD in Medical Humanities and Welfare Policies investigates health as a multidimensional phenomenon influenced by biological, psychological, social, cultural, and environmental factors.
The program is based on the idea that health is not simply the absence of disease but a continuous process involving personal experiences, social relationships, living conditions, and public policies.
Doctoral candidates examine how individuals, communities, and institutions interact in creating healthier societies.
The program combines perspectives from:
- Sociology
- Public health
- Welfare studies
- Medical humanities
- Social policy
- Environmental sociology
- Community development
- Healthcare organization
The Concept of Health: From Disease Management to Well-being Promotion
The program follows the modern understanding of health promoted by the World Health Organization (WHO), which recognizes health as involving:
- Physical well-being
- Mental well-being
- Social well-being
This perspective has become increasingly important following global health challenges, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) emphasized that health represents:
- A universal value
- A fundamental public good
- A key element of economic and social development
The doctoral program responds to this vision by studying how societies can move from a purely pathogenic model (focused on disease causes) toward a salutogenic model (focused on factors that generate health).
Main Research Themes
The PhD program explores several interconnected areas.
Health Sociology and Social Change
Research may examine:
- Social determinants of health
- Inequalities in healthcare access
- Changing patterns of health and illness
- Community health systems
- Social factors influencing well-being
- Healthcare experiences of different populations
Medical Humanities
This area explores the human dimension of medicine and healthcare.
Possible research topics include:
- Patient experiences
- Doctor-patient relationships
- Ethics in healthcare
- Narratives of illness
- Cultural approaches to health
- Human-centered healthcare models
Welfare Policies and Social Protection
Research areas include:
- Welfare system transformation
- Public healthcare policies
- Social services innovation
- Community-based healthcare
- Healthcare governance
- Social inclusion strategies
Environmental Health and Territorial Well-being
Given the program’s connection with environmental and territorial sociology, research may focus on:
- Relationship between environment and health
- Sustainable communities
- Urban well-being
- Territorial inequalities
- Local healthcare systems
- Social resilience
A Salutogenic Approach to Health
A central idea of the program is the transition from studying illness toward understanding the conditions that support health.
The salutogenic approach examines:
- Individual behaviour
- Personal life histories
- Social relationships
- Environmental influences
- Community resources
- Ability to adapt to change
Health is understood as a continuous balance between well-being and difficulties, requiring lifelong learning and adaptation.
Research Skills and Training
Doctoral students develop advanced skills in:
- Qualitative research methods
- Social analysis
- Policy evaluation
- Healthcare studies
- Interdisciplinary research
- Data interpretation
- Academic communication
- International research collaboration
The program prepares researchers capable of addressing complex challenges at the intersection of society and healthcare.
International Mobility Opportunities
International mobility is an important element of the doctoral experience.
Students may participate in:
- International research collaborations
- Academic exchanges
- Conferences
- Research networks
- Comparative studies of welfare systems
This international perspective strengthens understanding of global healthcare and social policy challenges.
Number of Funded Positions
The University of Foggia is offering:
6 Funded PhD Positions
for the 42nd doctoral cycle.
These positions support research in medical humanities, sociology, welfare policies, and social health innovation.
Who Can Apply?
The program welcomes applications from international candidates who meet the university’s admission requirements.
Applicants with backgrounds in areas such as:
- Sociology
- Social sciences
- Public health
- Psychology
- Political science
- Healthcare studies
- Social policy
- Humanities
- Related disciplines
may find this PhD particularly suitable.
Admission Process
Admission is based on a comparative evaluation of candidates’ qualifications and research potential.
The selection includes:
1. Evaluation of Qualifications
The committee evaluates:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Academic qualifications
- Scientific publications
- Research experience
- Previous academic achievements
2. Research Project Assessment or Written Test
Candidates may be assessed through:
- A submitted research project, where required, or
- A written examination
The research proposal should demonstrate:
- Research question
- Theoretical framework
- Methodology
- Expected contribution
- Relevance to health and welfare studies
3. Oral Examination
Candidates participate in an oral examination covering topics related to the PhD program.
The interview evaluates:
- Research interests
- Knowledge of relevant themes
- Academic preparation
- English language proficiency
Candidates may request to complete the interview entirely in English.
Funding Information
The doctoral scholarships are funded by:
University of Foggia
The funding is not financed or co-financed through an EU Research Framework Programme.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Call Publication Date | 13 July 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 9 September 2026 |
| Closing Time | 1:00 PM (Italy Time) |
Applicants should complete their applications before the deadline to avoid technical problems.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Online application form
- Curriculum Vitae
- Academic certificates
- Research proposal (where required)
- Publications (if available)
- Supporting documents requested by the university
Career Opportunities After the PhD
Graduates may pursue careers in:
- Universities and research institutions
- Public health organizations
- Government agencies
- Welfare policy organizations
- Healthcare management
- Social research centers
- International organizations
- NGOs
- Healthcare innovation projects
The program provides expertise valuable for designing future health and welfare systems.
Why Choose the University of Foggia?
The University of Foggia offers doctoral researchers:
- Funded PhD opportunities
- Interdisciplinary research environment
- International academic collaboration
- Social and healthcare research expertise
- Training in modern research methods
- Opportunities to address real-world challenges
The program connects social sciences with healthcare innovation, making it highly relevant for future welfare systems.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official University of Foggia application portal.
Applicants should complete the application form and upload all required documents before the deadline.
Official PhD Program Website: https://www.unifg.it/it/studiare/corsi-post-laurea/ciclo-xlii/medical-humanities-and-welfare-policies
Online Application Portal: https://unifg.esse3.cineca.it/Home.do
University Contact Information
University of Foggia
Via Gramsci 89/91
71121 Foggia, Italy
Email:
Phone:
+39 333 320 3900
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many funded PhD positions are available in Medical Humanities and Welfare Policies?
The University of Foggia is offering six funded PhD positions for the 42nd doctoral cycle.
Can international students apply?
Yes. International applicants who satisfy the university’s requirements can apply.
What is the main focus of this PhD?
The program focuses on the relationship between health, society, welfare policies, social change, and human well-being.
Which academic fields are connected to this PhD?
The program belongs mainly to sociology, particularly social changes, environmental sociology, territorial processes, and welfare studies.
What does the salutogenic approach mean?
The salutogenic approach focuses on understanding the factors that promote health and well-being rather than only studying disease causes.
Is international mobility required?
Yes. International mobility is part of the doctoral program.
Is a research proposal required?
Applicants must submit a research project where required by the official call. Some candidates may instead complete a written assessment.
Will there be an interview?
Yes. Candidates must complete an oral examination related to PhD topics and English language proficiency.
Can the interview be conducted in English?
Yes. Candidates may request to complete the oral examination entirely in English.
Is the PhD funded through an EU program?
No. The scholarships are funded by the University of Foggia and are not supported through an EU Research Framework Programme.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is:
9 September 2026 at 1:00 PM (Italy Time).
Discover more from Agristok
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.