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.
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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