Sarajevo Medical School

Doctoral (PhD) Program in Clinical Medical Sciences - SSST

Advance the Future of Medical Science Through Doctoral Excellence

The Doctoral (PhD) Program in Clinical Medical Sciences at the University SSST is designed for ambitious medical professionals, researchers, and academics who are ready to take the next step in their scientific careers. Rooted in rigorous methodology, international standards, and hands-on research, the program offers a unique environment where clinical experience meets advanced scientific inquiry.

At SSST, doctoral candidates join a vibrant community of scholars supported by distinguished mentors, modern research facilities, and strong international partnerships. Our program is built to empower each student with the expertise, discipline, and vision required to produce impactful research and contribute to the future of medicine.

Why Pursue Your Doctorate at SSST?

A research-driven program aligned with European and global standards
The curriculum is developed in accordance with leading international medical and academic bodies, including ORPHEUS, ASME, and the World Medical Association. This ensures that your doctoral training reflects the highest expectations of modern biomedical and health-science education.

Early research engagement - begin after the first semester
Unlike many traditional programs, SSST allows students to enter the research process immediately after the first semester, supported by experienced mentors and a structured methodology framework. This early start lays the foundation for strong dissertation work from day one.

Distinguished mentors and international expertise
Our mentorship team brings together leading clinicians, scientists, and researchers from across Europe and beyond. From orthopaedic surgery and gastroenterology to neurosurgery, IVF, radiology, oncology, and vascular surgery, doctoral candidates benefit from personalized supervision and exposure to diverse clinical and research environments.

Integration of clinical, laboratory and interdisciplinary research
The program bridges clinical practice with scientific investigation, enabling students to conduct research both at SSST and in affiliated hospitals, institutes, and international partner institutions. This dual approach offers access to varied patient populations, advanced diagnostic technologies, and global research networks.

A flexible structure for working professionals
The program is designed to support candidates with ongoing clinical or academic responsibilities. Balanced coursework, blended learning, and adaptable scheduling ensure steady progress without disrupting professional commitments.

Program Structure and Academic Journey

The Doctoral Program spans three years (180 ECTS) and combines coursework, elective modules, research seminars, and the development of an original doctoral thesis.

Year 1: Foundations of Scientific Excellence

Students complete core courses in Research Methodology, Clinical Research, Biostatistics, and Bioethics, acquiring the critical skills required for high-quality scientific work. By the end of the second semester, candidates select their mentor and propose their doctoral thesis topic.

Year 2: Specialized Learning and Independent Research

With mentor guidance, students deepen their expertise through elective modules tailored to their chosen discipline. They prepare and defend Doctoral Seminar I and II, presenting extensive literature reviews, research progress, and early findings. This stage strengthens academic independence and develops the student’s scientific voice.

Year 3: Advanced Research and Dissertation Development

The final year is dedicated to Research Seminars I–III, publication of scientific work, and the preparation of the doctoral thesis. Students must produce at least one research paper indexed in Web of Science before defending their dissertation - ensuring strong academic contribution and global visibility.

A Program Designed for Impact

Graduates of the SSST Doctoral Program will be able to:
• Demonstrate mastery of their scientific field and advanced research methodology
• Design, implement, and publish original research at an international level
• Communicate scientific findings to academic and public audiences
• Contribute to clinical, technological, and academic advancement
• Take on leadership roles in healthcare, research, academia, and public health
• Mentor and supervise future professionals in the field

Entry Requirements and Tuition

• Completed Faculty of Medicine degree (MD) with an (average grade above 8 or equivalent)
  • English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent)
  • Strong motivation and commitment to research
  • Tuition fee: EUR 7,000 per year (BiH citizens) – total EUR 21,000 / EUR 15,000 per year (international students) – total EUR 45,000
  • Financing options available through partnering institutions with repayment plans of 3, 5, or 10 years

Shape the Future of Medical Science at SSST

The Doctoral Program in Clinical Medical Sciences opens in February 2026 and welcomes candidates who are ready to elevate their careers, contribute meaningful scientific advances, and join a network of professionals dedicated to excellence in research and practice.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications for the Doctoral (PhD) Program in Clinical Medical Sciences are submitted by completing the online application form available at the following link:
https://ssst.edu.ba/en/applications/graduate-studies

After your application is received, our Admissions Office colleagues will contact you with additional information and the next steps in the application process.

For any further inquiries, please contact us via email at admissions@ssst.edu.ba or by phone at +387 33 975 002.

Download brochure.

About the Program

The Master Studies in Health Economics and Pharmacoeconomics at Sarajevo Medical School, University SSST, is the first academic postgraduate program of its kind in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region.

The program was developed in response to:

• Increasing complexity of healthcare systems
• Growing demand for evidence-based and economic decision-making
• Lack of formally trained experts in HTA and pharmaco-economics

It is designed to equip graduates with advanced analytical, economic, and policy-oriented competencies applicable across both public and private healthcare sectors.

The program builds on extensive academic and industry experience, as well as long-standing engagement with healthcare institutions, policymakers, and the pharmaceutical sector.

Who is the Program Intended For

The program is designed for: Professionals within the healthcare sector holding prior degrees in health sciences or economics.

It is particularly relevant for:

• Pharmaceutical industry professionals (market access, marketing, pricing, reimbursement)
• Healthcare institutions (management and decision-making roles)
• Health insurance funds and private insurers
• Ministries of health and public health institutions
• Healthcare professionals involved in clinical and policy decision-making
• Pharmacists across industry, regulatory, and clinical settings

Program Structure

The program carries 60 ECTS credits and is delivered over two semesters.

Teaching is organized in a hybrid format, including:

• On-site lectures
• Online teaching
• Seminars and research projects
• Master’s thesis

Areas of Study

The curriculum covers key areas essential for modern healthcare decision-making:

• Methodology of scientific research
• Healthcare systems and financing models
• Health economics
• Pharmacoeconomics and modelling techniques
• Health Technology Assessment (HTA)
• Health promotion and public health policy

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, graduates earn the title: Master of Biomedicine – Health Economics and Pharmacoeconomics

Graduates will be able to:

• Design pharmacoeconomic studies
• Interpret study results and economic evaluations
• Develop HTA reports
• Apply modelling techniques in healthcare decision-making
• Critically evaluate scientific evidence
• Assess healthcare investments and policies

Why This Program

• First program in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region
• Strong integration of academia and industry expertise
• Focus on real-world application and decision-making
• Alignment with European and international HTA standards
• Direct relevance for careers in policy, industry, and healthcare management

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Why master studies in the area of nutrition

The Master Studies Program in Nutrition and Dietetics at Sarajevo Medical School, University SSST, has been developed in response to the growing recognition of nutrition as one of the fundamental determinants of human health, disease prevention, and clinical outcomes. As one of the first academically oriented postgraduate programs of its kind in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region, it addresses the increasing need for professionals with a strong scientific foundation in nutritional science and evidence-based dietary practice. The program, as a second-cycle studies program, provides participants with advanced knowledge in the biological and medical foundations of nutrition, including metabolism, nutritional biochemistry, clinical nutrition, public health nutrition, and the critical appraisal of scientific evidence.

Through a combination of lectures, case-based discussions, and practical work, students develop the competencies required to apply nutritional science in clinical practice, preventive medicine, and health promotion. Teaching is delivered by distinguished academic staff, experienced clinicians, nutrition scientists, and invited experts from Bosnia and Herzegovina and abroad. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that students gain both a rigorous scientific understanding of nutrition and practical insights into its application in healthcare, research, and public health settings

Responding to the increasing global focus on preventive healthcare, lifestyle-related diseases, and the critical role of nutrition in maintaining health and managing illness, Sarajevo Medical School has launched Master Studies in Nutrition. This programme is designed to equip graduates with advanced scientific, clinical, and practical competencies required to assess nutritional needs, develop evidence-based dietary interventions, and promote health and well-being in both individual and population settings.

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DUAL DIPLOMA / INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION

This programme has been designed in alignment with international postgraduate standards and the expectations of contemporary biomedical education, in collaboration with the University of Buckingham. Upon successful completion of the programme, students are awarded both a Master's degree from University Sarajevo School of Science and Technology (SSST) and a degree from the University of Buckingham.

About the Programme

The Master Studies in Crisis Management in Healthcare Systems at Sarajevo Medical School, University SSST, are designed to prepare professionals for leadership, organisation, and evidence-based decision-making in healthcare crisis situations.

The programme responds to the growing need for professionals who can understand healthcare systems under pressure, coordinate institutional responses, protect continuity of care, and communicate effectively during complex and high-impact events.

• Pandemics and public health emergencies
• Natural disasters and technological hazards
• Infrastructure disruption and supply chain shortages
• Armed conflicts and humanitarian crises
• Mass casualty events
• Communication, governance, and coordination challenges

The programme combines healthcare system theory, public health, emergency preparedness, risk management, crisis communication, humanitarian health, conflict-related healthcare management, technological hazards, strategic leadership, and research methodology within one integrated postgraduate pathway.

Who is the Programme Intended For?

The programme is intended for professionals seeking advanced knowledge and leadership competencies in healthcare crisis preparedness, disaster response, public health emergencies, and strategic healthcare management.

It is particularly relevant for:

• Physicians and healthcare professionals in hospital management, emergency medicine, public health, primary healthcare, intensive care, infectious disease control, and health system coordination
• Public health professionals working in institutes of public health, ministries of health, surveillance systems, epidemiology, prevention, health promotion, and emergency preparedness
• Researchers, academics, and educators interested in healthcare systems, disaster risk reduction, public health emergencies, and crisis governance
• Professionals involved in hospital safety, technological hazards, health information systems, infrastructure preparedness, patient safety, and continuity of essential services
• Professionals working in public administration, emergency services, civil protection, international organisations, and humanitarian institutions

Programme Structure

Key information:

Teaching includes:

• Asynchronous video-led lectures
• Synchronous online seminars and group discussions
• Guest speaker contributions by academic, clinical, public health, and sector experts
• Case study analysis and scenario-based learning
• Presentations, research tutorials, and supervised academic work
• Final thesis / final project

Areas of Study

The curriculum covers:

• Healthcare systems and management
• Risk management and crisis communication
• Healthcare management in wars, conflicts, and disasters
• Technological hazards and disasters
• Public health problems in disasters
• Strategic management for emergency preparedness
• Research methodology and final Master's-level project

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, graduates receive the dual diploma described above and earn the title:

Master of Science in Crisis Management in Healthcare Systems

Graduates will be able to:

• Understand healthcare systems, vulnerabilities, command structures, and disaster-response networks
• Evaluate risk management, emergency preparedness, and crisis communication strategies
• Analyse healthcare challenges in disasters, conflicts, pandemics, public health emergencies, and complex operational environments
• Apply strategic management principles to preparedness, service continuity, resource prioritisation, and institutional resilience
• Demonstrate leadership, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills in crisis-related healthcare settings
• Design, conduct, present, and defend an independent Master's-level research project

Why This Programme?

Key strengths include:

• Dual diploma awarded through the collaboration between University SSST and the University of Buckingham
• Alignment with international postgraduate standards and contemporary biomedical education
• Focus on healthcare system resilience and continuity of essential services
• Relevance to public health emergencies, disasters, pandemics, technological hazards, and conflict settings
• Hybrid delivery format suitable for working professionals
• Teaching by distinguished SSST academic staff, public health experts, clinicians, and invited experts
• Direct relevance for careers in healthcare institutions, public health, emergency preparedness, public administration, and humanitarian organisations

Download brochure.

DUAL DIPLOMA / INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION

This programme has been designed in alignment with international postgraduate standards and the expectations of contemporary biomedical education, in collaboration with the University of Buckingham. Upon successful completion of the programme, students are awarded both a Master's degree from University Sarajevo School of Science and Technology (SSST) and a degree from the University of Buckingham.

About the Programme

The Master Studies in Reproductive Endocrinology at Sarajevo Medical School, University SSST, are designed to address one of the most rapidly advancing and clinically important areas of modern medicine.

The programme brings together clinical medicine, endocrinology, gynaecology and obstetrics, embryology and genetics, ultrasonography, infertility care, assisted reproductive technologies, and research methodology within one integrated postgraduate structure.

Modern reproductive healthcare requires professionals who can interpret endocrine, genetic, ultrasound, laboratory, and clinical information together in order to provide evidence-based, patient-centred care.

• Reproductive endocrinology and infertility care
• Reproductive medicine and assisted reproduction
• Antenatal diagnostics and fetal cardiology
• Menopause care and hormone replacement therapy
• Reproductive genetics and preimplantation diagnostics
• Ultrasound-based assessment in reproductive and antenatal medicine

The programme provides advanced knowledge in reproductive endocrinology, infertility, reproductive medicine, antenatal diagnostics, fetal cardiology, menopause care, assisted reproduction, reproductive genetics, and clinically oriented research.

Who is the Programme Intended For?

The programme is intended for gynaecologists, physicians, and healthcare professionals seeking advanced scientific and clinically relevant knowledge in reproductive endocrinology, infertility care, reproductive medicine, and related biomedical fields.

It is particularly relevant for:

• Physicians working in gynaecology, obstetrics, reproductive medicine, and infertility care
• Specialists involved in women's health, antenatal care, fertility assessment, menopause management, and endocrine-related reproductive conditions
• Healthcare professionals working in fertility clinics, IVF centres, gynaecology departments, endocrinology services, antenatal units, and ultrasound diagnostics
• Clinicians and biomedical professionals interested in assisted reproductive technologies, reproductive genetics, fetal medicine, and multidisciplinary reproductive healthcare

Programme Structure

Key information:

Teaching includes:

• Direct contact lectures and intensive clinical blocks
• Online lectures and live interactive seminars
• Case-based discussions and guided practical training
• Research tutorials and supervisory meetings
• Presentations and clinically oriented academic work
• Final thesis / final project

Areas of Study

The curriculum covers:

• Advanced reproductive and antenatal diagnostics
• Ultrasonography techniques in fetal cardiology
• Ultrasonography assessment of pregnancy
• Menopausal transition and hormone replacement therapy
• Advanced assisted reproductive techniques and preimplantation diagnostics
• Advanced reproductive endocrinology and infertility
• Research methodology and final Master's-level project

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, graduates receive the dual diploma described above and earn the title:

Master of Biomedicine - Reproductive Endocrinology

Graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of reproductive endocrinology, fertility, pregnancy, menopause, and reproductive health
• Interpret endocrine, ultrasound, genetic, laboratory, and clinical data relevant to infertility and assisted reproduction
• Apply evidence-based diagnostic reasoning in reproductive endocrine disorders, infertility, reproductive medicine, and antenatal care
• Evaluate assisted reproductive technologies, ovarian stimulation protocols, embryo selection, preimplantation diagnostics, and fertility preservation
• Interpret reproductive, antenatal, fetal cardiac, and 3D/4D ultrasonographic findings
• Design, conduct, present, and defend an independent Master's-level research project

Why This Programme?

Key strengths include:

• Dual diploma awarded through the collaboration between University SSST and the University of Buckingham
• Alignment with international postgraduate standards and contemporary biomedical education
• Focus on reproductive endocrinology, infertility care, fetal medicine, menopause care, and assisted reproduction
• Integration of clinical, diagnostic, endocrine, genetic, embryological, and ultrasound-based knowledge
• Hybrid delivery format suitable for working professionals
• Case-based learning, guided practical training, and research supervision
• Teaching by distinguished SSST academic staff, experienced clinicians, and invited experts
• Strong relevance for careers in gynaecology, obstetrics, infertility care, IVF, reproductive medicine, endocrinology, and ultrasound diagnostics

Download brochure.